The Current Can Change On A Dime


crocketsgrl

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Hey all this is my first Vice story. I'm posting it and hope you enjoy it with that in mind. thanks SueTHE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PROLOGUE The huge charter ship lay bobbing in its berth, the wake of another boat gently spraying ocean water against her well kept hull. The immaculate ship was both a business and a home for its captain. Being a native Floridian, the ocean and the sun were in his blood. The cold beer that slid down his parched throat seemed to chase away the extreme heat that blazed down. He never minded the heat. Most who migrated to the South from the North always would comment on how he didn’t seem to sweat, just glisten while they became drenched. He’d just laugh it off as he had done with his friend from New York several years back. James “Sonny†Crockett had quit the force four years earlier, along with his partner, Ricardo Tubbs. Sonny, as he was always called, had finally burned out after seeing too much corruption from many different departments that were supposed to serve and protect. His former Lieutenant, John Malone had taught him when to take out his gun and then later, when to holster it. He threw his badge onto the tarmac along side his partner’s in lieu of holstering his gun. Serve and protect was why he had joined the force so many years ago. Sometimes he wondered if they weren’t fools to think that being officers of the law could change things. Sure, they did put a dent in crime, but how could you fight crime and fight other law enforcement agencies? You always got dropped in to the trick bag. But he was young back then and with years came wisdom. Wisdom, that’s what his old partner Evan had said. He had to laugh sometimes at that one. But it did let him see the differences of how to play the game within the lines. Until the Borbon case, that’s when he’d realized he’d played the game way too long. At first he was lost, no longer being a cop. The ex-detective had only ever had three careers in his life. He started out a football player, well that didn’t work; it just messed up his knee. Then the great U S of A decided to draft him, a soldier in Nam, a war that should never had been fought. There he saw too many things, but acquired knowledge that would become useful. The army had told him all he had to do was follow orders, keep his head low, and most of all, think. But still he suffered seeing death of friends, death of innocent people, torture, drugs, and soldiers going crazy or committing suicide. Even with seeing this entire mess he was good at what he did, other soldiers looked up to him. He was a leader and the army knew it, trained him in Special Operations. He could fire a rifle from quite a distance and hit, right on target. After coming home with these army skills and seeing what he had, the choice was made, the police academy. Well it didn’t matter anymore. Sonny was doing what he wanted now. He could relax running a fishing charter. Living on The Sanity Maintenance was a good life. After all he had lived on the St. Vitus Dance more years than he had lived in a home once he was on the force. The ex-detective sat on his boat. Yeah, he wasn’t young and immortal anymore, now that his forty fourth birthday was coming up. The years had been kind though. He had put on a few pounds but he still had a nice tan body. The sun blond hair that lay just above his shoulders and slight wrinkles on his dark face only showed maturity, enhancing his good looks. The first year in a half as a civilian Crockett found out who he was. The guilt from the death of Sonny’s second wife and unborn child had been dealt with along with some other demons. He was seeing his fifteen year old son, Billy. They had developed a close relationship, seeing each other often and phoning each other several times a week. Crockett still kept in touch with his friends from OCB as well as others. He’d visit them or they’d visit him and the phone calls would go back and forth. Finally, life was feeling good again. The Southerner smiled at the pages that had been flipping through his mind. He hadn’t thought about his past in sometime until Rico had called saying that things didn’t work out with Valerie after years of trying. He had visited Rico and Valerie two years ago and came away wondering if things would ever work out for his friend and the lady that had always been in the New Yorker’s heart. Sonny was sad about the turn of events, but was excited at the thought of Rico coming down for a few weeks. That’s all the time the officer could take off from the New York police department. Sonny still teased his former partner about returning to the force. As for Sonny, he played it safe, dated different women, never getting serious, hoping someday to stumble on the right one. The hour was late; the moon shone on the water, Sonny took one last look before he stepped down into the cabin and got ready for bed. It had cooled down drastically making the sheets on the bed cool. Sonny turned off the small light before snuggling down into the bed. Tomorrow he’d pick up Tubbs from the airport. The blond could hardly wait. He made sure he had stocked up and everything in the cabin was clean. This would be a time mixed with helping his friend heal and hopefully have some fun. Maybe the two ex-partners would drive to Miami and surprise the old gang. Now that would be some kind of fun. Who knows what could happen, Sonny thought as his mind drifted off in to dream filled slumber. TBCTHE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART 1 Rico Tubbs lay back in his airline plane seat. Even as exhausted as the detective was, he couldn’t seem to get comfortable, shifting back and forth. The movie was ignored, the head set torn off his ears in annoyance. Finally filled with frustrations and painful emotions the good looking man leaned against the planes window. His mind was fuzzy like the puffy white sky and his mind mingle with the clouds that played a scene from the movie in his head. The motion picture of the long time love story kept replaying the final scene. Rico’s heart wrenched knowing it had to be, even if he didn’t want it to. They had tried over and over for years, always coming to the same conclusion, just not wanting to see it. Tears welled up in his already red rimmed eyes. How could you love someone so much, try so hard, and yet it never worked for long? Even miles away, his ex-partner was the only constant in his life. He loved Sonny and knew that Sonny loved him. They took care of one another, even after moving back to New York and Crockett to the Keys. Day or any time at night each one knew without hesitation they could pick up the phone and that feeling of love, comfort and trust would be there. So it was only natural to get away and be with the one person who knew him so well, could help put the pieces of this broken heart back together. Only Sonny could get him to smile at this point. And the scene continued to play on the back drop of the clouds. Finally living together, they tried so hard. Still, things had gotten way out of hand as they always did in the end, always did, each time they had tried . Tubbs was back with the police department and Valerie who was burned out had left the force to work as an assistant for a large corporation. Valerie had come home to find Rico packing some things. Shocked, the fine looking women dropped her purse and briefcase by her feet. Rico raised an eye and then went back to the dresser. Valerie slowly took in what he was doing while she walked over and closed the suitcase. Her hand rested on it, tears ran down her lovely face, eyes locked with his in confusion. “Rico, what are you doin’?†“Val, you know I love you, loved you for years.†He stopped and took a deep breath as he laid the clothes on to the bed, “but….but it’s never enough no matter how much we’ve tried and we’ve tried so many times, so many ways for years.†Valerie shook her head and then reached for Rico’s hand. Her slim fingers wrapped around his, her eyes held his with a pleading look. “I love you, I’ll do anything. We can work this out. I know we have our differences, always have and always will but it can work, Rico, it can work!†The last part came out in a forceful plea. Rico sadly shook his head. He squeezed her hand before dropping it. “No Val, you see that’s the problem, isn’t it? We kid ourselves, have been for years. Why do ya think we’ve always split and had time alone before coming back together? Love just isn’t enough, baby, can’t you see that? We’re tearin’ each other apart.†He sighed at the horrible truth of it all. Couldn’t she see it too? Or was she just hiding it as he had been for years. He didn’t know. All he knew was he couldn’t do this any longer no matter how much he loved her, “Don’t you see woman?†He sat on the bed, tired and depressed, not wanting to rehash the old argument. Valerie got up to stand in front of her boyfriend. She put her hands on her hips. Maybe, just maybe they needed a short break. She loved Rico, always had and she didn’t want to let him go, unless she knew he’d come back. “Rico, maybe we just need a few weeks to rethink things through.†She paused to see him shake his head in disbelief, “where are you going?†“I called Sonny. I’m going down there for a few weeks.†He told her as he dropped his eyes to the floor. Valerie felt the rage building inside of her. Sonny Crockett, she like the man but didn’t like how Rico still depended on him or how Crockett would call late at night depending on her lover. She wanted to be the one Tubbs depended on, not Crockett. She tried to end the late night calls but was only met with defiance. Of course Rico could have friends and Sonny was a good one, but there was a limit. “Of course, I should have known you’d go running back down to Florida, to Sonny! He’s one of the things that always get in our way, his problems, and his needs!†Valerie huffed, her body tensed. Rico stood up fast at her blaming his friend for their troubles. “Don’t you see, woman! It’s not Sonny, it’s us! Don’t push blame on to someone else when the blame is with us!†The anger burst out of the cop’s mouth. “Damn it Ricardo!†Valerie dropped what she was going to say, turning so her tears wouldn’t be seen. She tried to collect herself. “Listen Val, it’s not Sonny, it’s us. Things go fine for a while and then we get in each other’s way. Can’t you see that and accept it for what it is? I do love you but I can’t do this anymore,†Rico let out a pocket of air, “I don’t wanna fight, I’d like to end this as friends.†He stated hopefully. The beautiful lady before him swiped her eyes and then turned quickly on her heals as Rico spoke. “Friends? You want to be friends, like you and Sonny are friends? Oh that’s just great, real great! No, I don’t accept this, we were meant to be together forever. We just need to stick it out and fight for our relationship.†The adamant statement rang in both of their ears. “Damn it Valerie, that’s all we do is fight. We are fine for a while but it always comes back to fighting. Fighting about all the things we disagree in this so called relationship of ours. And you know what, it never ends, it goes on and we brush it under the rug and have great sex! I don’t want that, not anymore. I’m tired of fighting to keep afloat and that’s all we seem to do is just keep afloat. And lately…..well….I feel like I can’t swim anymore and I’m just drowning here. You can’t want that.†Rico deflated like the raft that was sinking into that water he spoke of. “Maybe I don’t see it that way. And I’m not going to drown unless I lose you.†Valerie admitted. “Then we have a problem here.†Rico’s soft voice filled with defeat. “Yes, we do. Don’t make me beg, Rico. Please don’t make me beg, cause I will.†Desperate, she knelt down in front of her lover or soon to be ex-lover. Rico already felt like he was drowning. Tubbs didn’t like seeing Valerie begging on her knees and wrapping her arms around his legs. This made him think of a body with cement tied around the legs in order to make sure that the drowning man wouldn’t be able to reach the surface in order to breath. “Val, stop this. You’re too classy of a lady to sink to this level. Now c’mon and get up. It’s over and you’re a strong lady and will go on.†He shook his head as he looked down to the tear stained face, the waterfalls that sprang from her eyes and wished he had just left before she had come home. But he wasn’t like that, he couldn’t just leave a note, he wanted to part friends. He sighed not knowing what to do, he was drained. “I’ll do anything,…. anything you want…. so you’ll stay…. and…. and we can work this out….. you’ll see. We…..we can….do this, Rico.†The voice came out quivering. Rico didn’t want to do this but knew it would be the only way to leave the apartment. He leaned down and pulled her arms from him. With all his strength he grabbed her shoulders, lifting her up and threw her on to the bed. “No more!†He yelled and then turned putting the rest of his things in to his suitcase and zipped it. “RICO!†She screamed to him doubled over, elbows on her legs watching the man she loved taking his suit case to the door. He turned around to look at her one last time with the regret that it wouldn’t work. He didn’t want to yell at her but knew it was the only way. Maybe in time they could talk and work on a friendship. He thought about Sonny and Gina and how they had worked hard to be friends after the train wreck of their relationship. “It’s OVER, understand that, Val! I’ll be gone for two weeks and when I get back I want you out of here! Maybe someday …….Never mind, just pack and leave the key in the tray by the door.†Rico made sure what he said was firm and hoped she’d understand. Closing the door he heard her yell to him. “RICOOOOOO!†He heard the desperation as he carried his suitcase down the stairs and quickly flag down a taxi to the airport. The voice over the speaker made the announcement that the plane was descending. The voice startled the detective out of his hazy memories. Soon he’d be in the sun and heat of Florida and in the company of his good friend. TBC

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Sorry, found on this site there are only a certain numbers of characters you can put on a post. THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART TWO The three year old Ferrari convertible didn’t race at the speed that Sonny usually liked to drive at. That privilege had left with his badge. But that didn’t stop him from pushing it to the limit, allowing both the speed and the wind to set his mind and body free. Walking through the airport doors he combed his hand through the mess of hair before taking off the sunglasses that were placed over the collar of his tee shirt. The crowd pushed throughout the building, some looking for loved ones, others carrying their bags to the carousels, while others bought boarding passes. The blond went towards the screens with a few other people looking to see the times of the arrivals. Tubbs plane was right on schedule. Another fifteen minutes to wait. The handsome tan man acknowledged the flirts from different women as he sat down on a stool at the bar. “What’ll it be?†The bartender asked. “Black Jack, neat.†Sonny answered before turning with a grin to the brunette on his left. “You boarding or waiting?†She smiled. “Waiting. And you?†He asked while paying for his drink. He then picked it up and smacked the burning liquid down his throat. “I’m boarding.†She told him with a pout. :â€Well then, I’d say that’s my loss.†The blond shifted, tilting his head, giving her his best tight lipped smile. “I suppose it’s both of ours.†She smiled. “Yeah, you got that right, darlin’. Have a nice flight now.†Sonny took the last gulp of his drink and then headed out toward the baggage carousel that had the luggage from Tubbs flight. ********************************************************** Sonny casually leaned against the pillar with a newspaper opened up to his nose, snickering. He watched the man getting slowly frustrated each time the carousel went around and his suitcase wasn’t on it. When the man looked like he was about to blow,Crockett folded the newspaper, put it under his arm and walked up behind him. “You lookin’ for this, New York?†The detective pivoted around quickly, the anger melting. His mouth turned up to a smile that shone in his eyes at seeing the blond who looked at him with an amused grin. “You were watchin’ me the whole time laughing, you Southern cracker.†Tubbs humorously accused. “Well you did look pretty funny. All I needed was some popcorn cause it was like watchin’ the circus when the man’s about to explode out of the cannon.†Crockett chuckled, bringing the case into full view. “You’ll never change.†The black man moved closer. “You wouldn’t want me to.†The blond stated as he grabbed his friend in a tight hug. Both men hugged each other hard before letting go and then looking at one another. “It’s good to see you, Sonny.†“You too.†Sonny returned the smile, “Let’s get out of this circus, the crowds driving me nuts.†“I’m all for that.†Tubbs agreed, turning to walk through the crowd to the exit. “I reckon I’m supposed to pull this thing?†Sonny drawled, stopping the other man in his tracks. “Yeah, you took it and I am the guest, besides, now you look like you’re in the circus pulling an animal. Thank God it ain’t Elvis, that’d scare the crowd away.†Tubbs laughed. “Hardy har har, I’d pay to have ole’ Elvis scare this mob away, if I still had him. C’mon lets blow this pop stand.†Sonny conceded and started pulling the bag behind him. “I’m with you partner.†The blond laughed hard falling into step with his friend. The darker man turned to see why he was laughing. It seemed to both like no time had passed between them, the banter was still the same. And it felt good. “What’s with you?†Tubbs gave a curious look, liking the casual feeling. “Just that we aren’t partners anymore, but it still sounds so right. I mean I know you have a new partner now, what’s the bozo’s name again?†The question was asked as they continued walking through the mass of people. “Say what? You know my partner’s name is Stillman and he’s a good cop, taught him everything I know.†“Yeah, well everything you know came from me, pal.†Crockett emphasized with a teasing grin. “Hey, I knew enough about police work to fool you for a bit and then I was able to keep my cover and protect your ass. “ Tubbs explained. It was a discussion they had had before and was fallen back into easily. “Granted, you did know enough to do the deal, but you did learn from me.†Crockett continued the game. “I’ll have you know, my man, that it wasn’t just the fact that New Yark would have had my ass. But I did want to be transferred down here, to learn from you. I saw how you handled your self undercover and how the squad was different. Knew I could learn a lot and now I’m teachin’ it to my partner and other’s in my department. Only we have to do it a bit different since New Yark runs at a faster pace then you Southern boys.†Tubbs gave Crockett a big grin. Crockett replaced his sunglasses on his face as they walked out the exit door. “Ha, you’re a funny man, Rico, but I do have to say you were a quick study.†Sonny nodded and then took his keys, opened the trunk and put the suitcase in. He then opened the car doors and slid into the driver’s seat. “I’m not just a quick study I’m also a pretty face.†Tubbs turned to his partner catching the stare he knew would come. Crockett looked at Tubbs, his face turned down so he could see over the top of his sunglasses. He then shook his head. While he spoke he focused back on starting the car and allowing a cheshire cat grin to appear. “Man, I see the egos still intact.†The car started to move out of the parking garage. “What can I say, I have high self esteem.†“Your self esteem gets any higher buddy, you’ll float away.†Both men laughed as they drove back to the marina where The Sanity Maintenance laid waiting for them. ********************************************************** Crockett put Tubbs suitcase in the other suite of the yacht. He then gave a tour to his friend who had never seen his house on the water before. Tubbs took an eyeful gaze at the ship as Crockett showed him around. The cabin was bigger than the St. Vitus Dance. There were two bigger bedroom suites, a full galley with all the modern amenities. There was a dining room with a separate living area that held comfortable furniture and to Tubbs surprise modern appliances, like a nice size television, VCR, and stereo system. Then there was what Sonny had always called the head, he didn’t know why it wasn’t just called a bathroom, but what did he know. All he knew was what his partner had taught him. And thank God this head was bigger than a closet and had a nice full size shower among other things. He wasn’t surprised that the boat had been made with beautiful teakwood, everywhere. He knew Sonny always love that. Outside there was a large deck for many people to fish on, a flying bridge and the bow had plenty of room to lie out and relax in the sun. He was impressed, but what else would he expect from his friend. Tubbs turned his head around again to take everything in before focusing back on Crockett. “Niiccceee†“You expect less?†The blond smiled proudly. It was clear to Rico how much Sonny loved this boat, or really his yacht. He thought about it while the ex-detective went back down stairs. After a few minutes he returned in shorts, no shirt or shoes and the infamous sunglasses. Rico was amused. He knew the full dress wouldn’t stay on once they were on the water. Never did, off duty on the Vitus either. His friend handed him a beer breaking the still fully clothed mans revive before slouching into a deck chair, bare feet up on the railing. Rico leaned against the railing to face him. “When you sent me the pictures I’d never have thought. Geez, this musta cost you an arm and a leg.†Tubbs drew on his beer. Sonny drank a large amount of his beer. He then let it sit on his leg, the cold condensation running down his thigh not seeming to bother the Southerner as he gazed so naturally at the water. Rico watched. He knew the water always calmed Sonny and it seemed to be having the same affect on the New Yorker. After thinking for a minute Tubbs was rewarded with an answer, “I used Cait’s money she left me for the boat, got everything I wanted, especially since I’d be workin’ and livin’ on it. Also got the Ferrari and a few things I needed to live. Like I’ve told you I don’t like to use Cait’s money but after selling the house I was able to get these things. Then I took some of the money she left me and put it into a trust fund for Billy, he’ll get that when he’s twenty-five, once he does something after college, which I also put money aside for. The rest I don’t touch, just some charities from the interest each year, the lawyer takes care of that. I live on what I earn and that’s how I like it.†Sonny never stopped staring at the water while he spoke and still was staring after he finished. “Who would have figured you to give to charities? I mean I know you aren’t stingy, just never woulda though, man.†A deep breath was pulled in, “Got money going to the police force too, for updates they need, ya know, computers, pounds, and other important things. Some goes through the captain in Metro-Dade and some is assigned to OCB Vice, of course. Castillo loves that one.†Sonny gave a ruthful smile at the mention of Vice and their former boss. He then continued, “And kids, Rico, gotta take care of the kids. I have the money going to all different children’s charities. There’s enough and Caitie loved kids.†Sonny stopped abruptly. “Especially since she was pregnant and all that happened.†Rico softly finished his partner’s sentence. “Yeah…..†Sonny took another long gulp of the beer before discarding it into the can, “But that’s in the past and I’ve dealt with it, so this is one of the ways that have helped.†“I can see that. Guess giving to Metro and Vice still gives you an in, huh?†“Yeah, talk to Marty and the temporary captain. Thank God they got rid of that corrupt son of a bitch and put in someone I think is good. They want Castillo, but he won’t go unless I take over as Lieutenant. I knew he had me take that test for a reason, but I just can’t decide, need some time and here I can do as I please and do something else I love. No complications, just plain ole’ sanity maintenance, the way I like it.†He dropped his feet to the deck, finally turning to his friend. “So you’re not sure about taking a lieutenants job. I mean you’d be damn good at it, ran OCB as Marty’s right hand man and everyone looks up to you. You think you’ll go back?†Curiosity came flowing out of his mouth. He knew Sonny would be one hell of a lieutenant, someone to be reckoned with; after all he was a leader. People just always followed his partner, trusted him to know how to run the plays. Tubbs was always amazed at how blindly these people would follow Sonny no matter what, even him. The man had a great deal of empathy for his people besides the know how to get the job done, no matter what it took. Rico would sometimes wonder how the men in Nam followed Sonny and if they were anything like the officers on the force, they’d follow Sonny into hell if he led them. That, to Tubbs, was loyalty, one the ex-detective deserved. “Don’t know. I won’t lie, I’ve thought about it, just not ready but I know if I change my mind it would have to be soon. But we aren’t here to talk about my future endeavors.Besides, I think you’re a bit over dress there, pal. So I reckon while you’re changing I’ll go make us up some grub.†“Alright, we’ll put aside this talk for the time being. So we having the catch o da day?†Tubbs laughed. “Something like that. But ex-nay the talk about getting my job back on the force. Hey, didn’t tell you, I rented a berth at Dade marina so we could see the gang. I thought that’d be nice. Was going to drive but figured this would be better. Leave tomorrow?†Crockett grinned back. “Wait, you’re gonna dock this where the Vitus was?†Tubbs gave a bemused look. “Where the Vitus is, buddy.†Sonny raised his brow in a lecherous grin. :â€Whatda mean where the Vitus is? It’s still there?†Tubbs asked bewildered. “Yup, a young officer now turned vice undercover sergeant has taken her over.†Crockett waited to see if Tubbs would figure out who this officer was. “And who might that be?†“Our very own Joey Hardin. I haven’t seen him since he’s out of jeans and into the new threads, but he’s doing a great job. Calls me often if he’s stuck on a case or doesn’t know how to play it, or just to shoot the breeze, he’s good. When he did come down for a visit, in his jeans, it was good to see him.â€â€ Sonny smiled at the thought of the kid and the pride he held for him. The blond didn’t let on much more allowing the fun of the guessing game to continue. “Has to be, he’s always looked up to you, your protégé.†He had seen how the older man had become close to the young DEA agent in the case were Joey pretended to be a witness. The young man was taken under Sonny’s wing and taught a few things, no wonder Joey was put on Vice. Sonny was a good teacher, especially when he liked someone and saw talent and there was plenty of talent in Joey Hardin. “Ya gonna fill me in some more, or what?†Tubbs questioned anxiously. “Right, ya been away too long, New York. I didn’t tell you the last time we spoke, forgot.†“You…..forgot, I don’t think so.†Tubbs smiled knowing Crockett was running a game on him, “Enough of the games, I’m not a player down here anymore.†“Ok, ok, you New Yorker’s are always in such a hurry.†Sonny chuckled, amused by his friends reaction. “C’mon, stop being a pain in the ass and tell me already.†Tubbs growled light heartedly. “Well, seems the Burnett cover is still alive and well, that is on the computer system, anyways. Burnett’s gone to bigger things up North and left his business, including his boats to his cousin to work the business for him. Hardin is now Joey Briggs, his partner in crime, Diaz, is now Jorge Hernandez. They run it like we did. Joey calls like I said when he needs advice or is stuck on a case and how to run it.†Sonny stared at Rico. Rico stared back, a slow smile forming on his face, “So you ain’t totally out of the game. You’re just in to everything from the outside. The temporary captain, Castillo and even Joey and his partner, you love the strategy. You need to go back, take the lieutenants job.†“Yeah guess a part of me still does. And like I said I’m still thinkin’ on that, so drop it, pal, I know what you’re trying to do.†Crockett shook his mane and again changed the subject about the lieutenant’s job. “But remember, down at the marina I have to keep my cover and you do too. We are still Burnett and Cooper checking up on the business. I worked it all out with Joey, Jorge, Marty and the temporary captain.†“So even on vacation I’m still an undercover cop and we’re partners once again. Gotta hand it to ya man, you sure can do things with style. Having a cover and not being an officer anymore, hmm.†Tubbs could see that Sonny was in deep but couldn’t understand why the blond wouldn’t take the whole plunge. “And you thought us Southern crackers didn’t have your New York style.†Crockett then gave a warning glare to his friend. “I said drop it, Tubbs and I ain’t bein’ polite this time.†Sonny’s voice had risen with what he said. Tubbs realized he’d have to let the subject go for now. He could see the Southerner’s temper rising and didn’t want to deal with it. He’d find another way. “Ok, pal, no more for now. Tomorrow at the marina we be Burnett and Cooper, mon.†Tubbs lightened the mood as he always did with Sonny. After years, he knew how to handle his moody friend. Both men laughed wildly at the idea. Tomorrow they’d be back in Miami and back as unofficial partners, but none the less, back. This excited Tubbs and even though Sonny didn’t show it he knew that the ex-detective was excited too. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART THREE The talk had stopped while Tubbs changed in to something more comfortable for the weather as Sonny finished making their dinner. Both ate, cleared and cleaned up. The moon hung high in the early evening sky setting off a long ray of light that bathed the water along with the colored lights from buildings that reflected off the tide. The two men were relaxing, sitting on chairs, drinking their Black Jack and Cognac. “Hey, what’s going on down at the OCB lately, anyways? I haven’t had a chance to talk to anyone in some time. I’d like ta know before stepping back in our old playground.†Rico inquired. Sonny poured himself another drink, let the liquid burn his throat before answering.“Well the Hardy boys I told you about. The game book is still running a lot of the same plays and different ones with the new kids on the team. Gina’s engaged as of last month to Gordon Shaw.†“Wait, the Hardy boys are Joey and Jorge, right? And Gina’s gotten herself engaged to Gordon?†Tubbs threw a look of surprise at the last part of what Sonny said. “Yeah, that would be them, Joey and Jorge, The Hardy Boys.†Sonny chuckled at the thought, “and, yeah, Gina’s engaged.†Sonny said thoughtfully, holding the glass between his fingers. He swirled the amber liquid and watched it almost as if it had mystical answers floating within it. Rico waited for him to finish, he knew that far off look, knew how Sonny could try and find answers in a glass or a mirror. Crockett was a complicated man. These were the few ways that he would look inside, keep it in, like it were him trapped in the glass, whether it be a drinking glass or the glass made mirror. The glass, either way, still caged his friend. What were the secrets in the mystical glass? Tubbs figured he knew a few of them. Rico knew even though things hadn’t worked out for Gina and Sonny that she always held a special place in his friend’s heart. He wondered if the man was jealous, wished things had been different, or if something else were bothering him. Not willing to ask unless Sonny told, he waited. “Gordon’s a good man and he’s lucky to have Gina. You remember Gordon, assistant D.A.?†Rico searched his mind until recognition filled it, “Yeah, nice guy is right. He helped you out a few times.†“Many times.†Sonny laughed, seeming to leave behind what he saw in the glass, “He’s now the D.A. and he isn’t on the take. Never thought I’d see the day when there were more of the good guys on the right side. And as for Swi, he’s a sergeant now with a new partner, Sammy. It was time to partner the poor guy off. They get along like frick and frack. There are a lot of new people in OCB now.†“Since there’s more of the good guys then bad guys now, I’d think you’d consider definitely becoming the lieutenant of Vice. Sonny, you’d be good at it. No one has your style and dedication and I think that’s why Castillo thought of you. Plus, you have so many people that would be loyal to you, always did.†Tubbs pushed at his friend. He didn’t want to get the ex-cop angry, he’d seen that side of Sonny too many time, and saw it earlier. The detective hoped he wasn’t bringing the subject up to early after the warning the blond had given him just hours before. He just knew that Sonny’d be good at running OCB, that the thought was there, but something was holding him back. Was that one of the answers the ex-detective had been looking in that glass for? “Ah Rico, I don’t know. I’m not gonna lie ta ya. I’ve played it around in my head about a million times. The action junkie is still there, wanting to be a cop never left, it’s just here I’m free, relaxed and can have a life with my son. Still, Ah hell, I don’t know, maybe. Just need more time to think on it.†Sonny answered, his mind mulling it over again. What did stop him? Was it fear? He wasn’t afraid of the job its self, but of what happened over the last year he worked on the force. And for some reason his friend bringing it up again, just hours after Crockett’s gander had risen, well, this was Tubbs and right now he was ok with it, as long as it didn’t go to deep. He poured more Black Jack into his glass, more to add to the fire that burned of unanswered questions. “Hey Sonny, whatever way you go I’m there for you. I’d even come back down and work for you, can’t think of a better boss. But I can understand your apprehension over what happened in the last year on the force.†Tubbs knew as he usually did, some of what was running around the blonds head about taking the job. “You always know where my minds at, most of the time. And I always dug how we could read each other, even in just eye contact, helped on the deals. Funny how that happened so quickly between us, made us strong and able to balance each other out.†He let out a long sigh, “let’s not talk about it right now, ok?†He knew Tubbs would let it go, but only for now and he’d hear more about it once they were in Miami and saw the old gang and how the unit was running. He was lucky that Rico had only brought it up twice. He knew his friend remembered his moods and they wouldn’t speak about it the rest of the night, but the subject wasn’t over. Sonny never trusted anyone like he did Ricardo Tubbs and knew Ricardo Tubbs felt the same for him. They knew each other well, where to draw the line and when to come back to the subject if needed. They always figured things out when each man was ready to talk about it. Only a few times could Crockett remember Tubbs getting put off by his lack of spilling his guts, or Sonny’s mood got out of hand. Crockett wasn’t used to that, he hated times when he’d rage, putting Rico on the defense as he did with the Mike Orgell and Evan Freed ordeal. He shrugged it off and let his attention focus back on the black man that sat by him. “Ok, fair enough, for now, but don’t think it’s dropped indefinitely.†The detective knew the ex-cop had already figure he’d say that. And also knew that the offer to work in Vice under Sonny would turn the man’s thoughts around some. He thought for a minute on how to change the subject from Sonny going back on the force but not from Vice,“So how’s our Big Booty Trudy?†Rico laughed remembering when he was told the story of how Sonny had got the name plate made and put it on her desk. Sonny almost choked on his drink at how his partner changed the subject yet still kept it on the department and at hearing the famous name, “She’s great, studying law when she isn’t workin’. Man I remember how mad she got when she finally found out I was the one who put that there sign on her desk. But she got over it and kept it there. I told her I made it out of love and affection for her and it hurt me deeply that she didn’t like it. Maaaannn that was some sappy tap dancing, but she fell hard for that crock of shit. Only as time went by it became true.†Sonny mused. “I guess I’ll see all the new and old tomorrow. It’ll feel nice to see them again.†“Yeah I told them I was coming in and bringing a present.†Sonny grinned evilly. “You didn’t tell them I was coming?†Rico asked. He wasn’t surprised. Knowing Sonny as well as he did he knew the blond was either blunt, saying what he was thinking, especially in a fit of anger or passion. Though when uncomfortable he tended to beat around the bush and when this happened it seemed Rico could pull it out of him, most of the time. As far as kidding around went, Sonny came up with different ways to stir the pot, get things jumpin’ and it always worked. Rico realized once again, after Sonny mentioned it, just how in tune they were with each other. “This way you can sneak up on ‘em.†Sonny raised his brow still grinning. “Leave it to you, buddy. But then I kind of figured you’d do that.†“See, like I said before we still think alike after all these years. One of the things I liked so much about us bein’ partners and friends.†He mentioned again, a soft affectionate look covering Sonny’s handsome face. “I miss it too, and I miss this.†Rico answered, looking around, before settling his stare on Sonny and giving the same affectionate gaze back. Funny, Sonny thought, how the subject came right back to working, again, with Vice, past and present. But more important the subject came back to them. Sometimes Sonny thought they were like two halves that made a whole. He smiled at the thought, “Hell Rico, I miss us, and like you said …. this. God, I never realized just how much.†The blond thought for a moment and then hid the sappy expression. “Me too, man, me too.†The darker man agreed. The two men sat side by side leaning shoulder to shoulder as they had done so many times before, gazing out at the lights shining off the water. The boat rocked a gentle rhythm lulling them both. “Sonny, you know I’ve never felt more comfortable, relaxed with anyone else before, I miss that too.†Rico confided. “I know, pal. I feel the same way. You always knew and still know how to bring me back from my doldrums. Always been my rock, ya know?†“Yeah, I do. And you mine†Rico stated, thinking just how true what they both were saying. He felt such love for this man. The love that Valerie had been so jealous of, the love that he had remembered thinking he’d never had for another human being. Sonny’s thoughts turned. “Been wonderin’ if that didn’t have a bit to do with what happened between you and Val.†Sonny admitted. He thought Rico might have been thinking along the same lines. He still didn’t take his eyes off the water. It was easier not to look at Rico when admitting such emotions. Hell, everything he was saying was the truth. These thoughts had crossed his mind and he wanted to know if he didn’t play a part in their break up. Maybe it was just his insecurities again, he didn’t know. All he knew was he like having Rico around. “Damn it, Rico, I don’t wanna think I had any small part with your breaking it off with Val. You haven’t even said a word about her since you got off the plane.†Sonny said gruffly and then shot up onto his feet. Uncomfortable, his emotions suddenly shifting in every direction and it should be him there for Rico, he admonished. Guilty, he paced. Rico stood up. He knew how Sonny could get and how far off from the truth his friend was. Now he figured he knew more of what had been in the amber liquid of the glass his pal had been lost in. At least he hoped this was the one thing he could help. And hoped it would lessen what swirled around in that glass cage of Sonny’s, “Sonny, there you go again, taking on someone else’s problems, wonderin’ if you’re the cause. Christ, it’s been a long time coming between me and Val. This is the first time in I don’t know how long that I’ve felt at peace. Being with you again, on the water like old times, I haven’t even given the woman a thought until you brought her up. So be cool, I’m fine and where I want to be.†Sonny swallowed hard before turning and looking at Rico. “I’m being fucking selfish as usual. Rico, I just wanted you to be happy and didn’t wanna get in the way. Shit, I guess I just feel guilty wanting you back here, guilty at missing what we had as friends, partners, Christ, brothers.†He let out a heavy sigh, “God only knows my own brother isn’t around and hasn’t been in years. I just know that when I called I could hone in on Val’s voice, she didn’t want me on the phone, didn’t want me up there more than a day or two when I visited. Oh, hell, I don’t know.†He picked up a fishing weight and threw it as hard as he could into the water. He was hoping that throwing the heavy weight as hard as he could, might purge the storming emotions inside. The dark haired man came up to the blond, rested the palm of his hand on the other man’s shoulder, his best friend’s shoulder. A man he felt so much for and he could never seem to express it. How do you express the love he felt? He’d always done it by being the calm that was needed, by not leaving as so many did in Sonny’s life. But it did seem strange after how he had felt on the plane about Valerie, that once he saw Sonny, Valerie dissipated from his thoughts. “Listen, you didn’t have anything to do with Valerie. She was jealous of you and what we have. Her insecurities, she wouldn’t leave it alone and there were so many other things that were wrong with us. I just felt like I was drowning and couldn’t do it anymore. All I knew was I had to leave and all I could think about was being here with you. So what’s wrong with that, buddy?†Rico turned Sonny around and pulled him into a deep, hard hug. “Nothing, I guess.†Sonny breathed out melting into the hug they shared. “Good, so no more of this crap, alright?†Rico pulled away still holding Sonny’s shoulders to search for the answer to his question in the other man’s eyes. Another thing Rico always knew was that Sonny’s deepest emotions lay in those sea green eyes, dark and stormy when negative feelings came and jade sea green with the positive ones. He could tell from those eyes that he was accepting what Rico told him, but there was also some under lying emotion that made those eyes a cross between stormy and jade. Sonny would eventually let his friend in on what was going on once the man himself figured it out. “Yeah.†The blond quietly breathed out. They both released the hold. Rico felt a strange feeling that he had felt many times before, the loss of the physical contact. He always loved that about this mysterious man. Sonny wasn’t afraid to show physical affection with his friends, women or men. â€Guess we better get some shut eye. We leave early in the a.m.†Sonny gave a small smile of gratitude to his friend and then started to clean up. “Thanks, Sonny.†Rico’s voice whispered passed his ear. Crockett stopped and turned at the chill that washed over his body at the breath of air that passed his ear. “You’re welcome and I can say the same to you.†“But you won’t, though you are welcome.†Tubbs laughed lighting up the tension. Sonny joined the laughter. They finished cleaning up and headed to bed feeling better after getting some of the emotions out of the way. Drifting off to sleep each thought about the warmth they felt from the closeness they shared and the excitement of going to Miami in the morning. ********************************************************** Sonny left the marina early in the morning. The sun shone brightly in the sky casting off rays of heat already. He wiped his brow and pulled off his tee shirt to feel the breeze. The water was always cooler than inland so he knew it would be a scorcher later on. The tan figure in denim cut offs had woken Rico in time for him to shower and eat something. On the way to Miami, cruise ships passed as The Sanity Maintenance cut their wakes. Bouncing roughly through a few he thought Tubbs had yelled, he just snickered at the New Yorker who didn’t know boats the way he did or the water. After all he had been on boats since he had been a small child with his daddy. His daddy had taught him a lot about boats, fishing, swimming and playing pool. He’d go to the bars with his dad and learn to shoot pool while his father drank or out on the boat and fish, having some beers. Then they’d go home, only for him to listen as his mother yelled. She always thought Sonny was safely out of ear shot, but he’d listen. Jake was never anywhere to be found, leaving him alone with the explosive fights. Sometimes when the arguments got real bad he’d hide under his blankets just wanting the harsh loud voices to stop, to be a bad dream, but they weren’t. He didn’t know what brought all those good memories up and have them suddenly change in to bad ones. He quickly started thinking about something else. It occurred to him that he only knew about Tubbs brother, Raphael and his grandmother but nothing about Tubbs father or mother. To Crockett it seemed as if Raphael Tubbs had raised Ricardo along with the grandmother. Funny, after so long he didn’t know anything more about Tubbs family, only that now he didn’t have one. James “Sonny†Crockett was referred to as Tubbs family and that‘s all he knew. The tan blond was taken out of his reverie when he jerked around at the noise Tubbs made climbing the ladder to the flying bridge. “Whoa partner, it’s only me.†The darker man eased, the words calming the startled man before him. “I guess I’ll never stop acting or responding like a cop.†Crockett said sheepishly, “Did you sleep well, get everything you needed this morning?†“I slept better than I have in a long time. I did pretty well this morning until you slammed this tub around a few times and sent me flying around the shower and kitchen.†“It’s a galley, not a kitchen. And I’m sorry ‘bout that bouncin’. A few cruise ships went by and I had to cut through their wakes.†“You couldn’t just do it gently, or some other way?†Crockett looked at Tubbs as if the man were crazy, and then spit out in frustration, “What? You have to cut through another boats wake or you’ll, oh never mind!†His voice changed to light sarcasm. “Keep forgotten that you’re from New York and didn’t know too much about boating until you came down here.†Crockett waved the subject off. “Sorry, Captain, but I don’t think I remember some of what I had learned in the five years we were partners. I remember some.†Tubbs told him timidly. “S’ok, you’ll remember as we go. We’ll be at the marina in about 15 minutes and you’ll have to give me a hand with the lines. You do remember how to tie off a line, don’t ya? And that you get the bow and I’ll maneuver from below and get the stern line?†Crockett asked, looking expectantly at his friend. “Ah yeah, I remember how to tie off, but the bow and the stern?†Crockett chuckled, “Bow is the front and the stern is the back. You’ll be in the front and I’ll be in the back, ‘K?†Crockett explained as if he were talking to a child. He stared with a lopsided grin. “Yup, got it.†Tubbs replied, not at all offended by the tone of his friend’s voice. The yacht was docked with out a problem, a few slips down from the St. Vitus Dance. They had made good time. Sonny went up to visit Will, who was so happy to see, Burnett. Yup, Sonny Burnett, that’s who he was once again, he thought as he answered Will’s questions and then phoned a cab. Brunett waltzed his way down the dock admiring the view of the boats and bikini clad women behind his sunglasses, some remembered him and waved or asked where he’d been. Brunett, to them, made charming quick excuses and was on his way. He stopped to gaze at the St. Vitus Dance, the yacht that had been his home for such a long time. Thoughts from the past, living on the sail boat, filtered through his head. Joey had already gone to the office so the hatch was locked. He’d have to come aboard and see how the kid was keeping the boat. He knew that Joey couldn’t fix much like Sonny had always done. Will told him how his cousin always had something for the man to work on. Before walking away, the blond shook his head at how the brass was starting to tarnish in places and made a mental note to tell Joey to get it polished. He then proceeded to The Sanity Maintenance to change and pick up Rico so they could wait for the cab. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART FOUR The morning sun filtered on the Gold Coast building which had been white washed since Tubbs had last seen it. The lobby had changed, with more security added, yet it still looked like a building filled with business offices. No one would have guessed that just beyond the second set of doors and down around the hallway stood the Organize Crime Bureau. After both men got their visitor passes, they followed the new carpet to the double doors they knew so well. Crockett stopped, pushing Tubbs back by the lockers. Tubbs looked up at the metal row, remembering how his name used to be on one. Crockett saw the look. He knew and felt the same nostalgia that Tubbs was feeling. Hazel eyes locked on to Green eyes, passing the thought almost telepathically to one another. Crockett shook off the feeling bringing him back to the present. “Stay here until I come fer ya. I want this to be a real good surprise.” The ex-detective drawled and then grinned, giving a wink before pushing through to the office. He found the usual hustle and bustle that stirred around all the officers. The arrangement of the squad room had changed, but he had seen it before, thanks to his contributions. He made sure that no one but the higher ups knew he was giving money to Metro – Dade and especially the Vice unit, except now Tubbs knew. Crockett knew that his pal won’t say a word to anyone, when it came to Tubbs, Crockett never had to worry. The warmth of the trust was still there, even after the partnership, though it no longer was a legal one. He loved this guy and he knew the feeling was returned. Tubbs would never let him down. He thought about it as he observed the room. Computer keyboards now replaced typewriters, there keys clicking away. Partners going over cases they were working on, others were in the kitchen getting the always needed caffeine jolt of coffee. A few of the ladies were getting ready for the stroll and there was the ever present rock of the squad, Martin Castillo, sitting in his office with the door closed. Sonny smiled as he looked around. He spotted his old crew and some new ones and then focused on a young dark haired man in expensive clothes leaning over his partner’s desk in conversation. Crockett wandered over to the young man. Standing behind the detective, he raised his voice a little. “Well, looky here, if it ain’t the Hardy boys workin’ for a livin’.” He waited with a wise-guy tight lipped smile. “Damn it Crockett, we’re not the Hardy Boys.” The young man stood up, and turned to face the tan blond man.“Sure looks that way to me.” Sonny ran his hands from the top to the bottom of the jacket lapels before dropping them, “nice threads, I almost didn’t recognize ya without your tee shirt and jeans. At least Burnett’s cousin looks the part.” He continued smiling. “Go on and laugh, Crockett. But you have to admit I look better in them than you.” The young detective laughed and gave the older man a friendly quick hug with both patting each other on the back, “good to see you. Saw your boat this morning but didn’t want to wake an old man like your self.” The younger man laughed harder. His partner snickered, nervously. “Hi Sonny.” “Hey Jorge, your partner thinks he’s got one up on me. I may be older but with being older comes the proficiency you’re always callin’ me about, junior. Ain’t that right, Jorge?” Sonny tapped his opened palm twice on the younger mans cheek. Jorge nervously shrugged, feeling it safer than to get between Sonny Crockett and his protégé, who happened to be the Hispanic man’s partner. “Alright, So I do. But I’m good and you’ve said it yourself. I only call you for that knowledge and to keep our friendship going. Or should I say when we’re at the marina, to keep in touch with my cousin? I mean while you’re there you are Burnett.” Joey smiled. “Alright you smooth talker, I’ll give you that. Joey, you and Diaz here are doing an outstanding job from what I hear. And it is Burnett at the marina and Burnett is going to have a party tonight, I’m here to invite the whole squad.” Sonny leaned into Joey. He placed his arm around the young man’s shoulder and drew him in to listen, “I really wanted to get on the Vitus and check her out, guess I’ll get my chance soon enough. However, while I was starring at her I noticed that the brass is tarnishing. You can’t treat a lady like that. You know how to treat a lady, kid?” Sonny loosened his grip on the younger man while he waited for his answer. “Yeah, I know how to treat a lady.” Joey huffed. Sonny turned to stare right into Joey’s eyes. “Naw, didn’t think so. From experience junior, you stroke a woman, give her what she needs, and make her shine. Thheenn she’ll always look good, feel good and treat you good, got it?” Crockett drawled as he again, teasingly tapped Hardin’s cheek with his palm, before taking out a piece of paper and handing it to Joey, “oh and I know Will does everything on that lady, cause I’m the one who set it up for ya. Here’s what you need, written down so you get the right stuff and know how to do it so it gets done right.” Sonny gave the paper to Joey and let the young detective read the paper. His partner could no longer hold in his laughter. “Sonny, I told you before I’m not like you. You did almost everything on that yacht, I don’t know if I can do this right. Shit, I’ve just learned to sail her fairly well as long as someone’s with me. But I’m great at driving the Scarab.” Joey sincerely stated, smiling at the thought of the cigarette boat. Everyone in the squad watched. They could see that Joey Hardin looked up to and regarded James “Sonny” Crockett with respect, as they all had over the years. “Joey, Joey, you can’t take her out on your own after a couple of years? Kid, before I leave I’m taking you out and you will sail her without my help, I’m just the guide. And as for the Scarab, you be easy on her. I know I road her to the extreme, even raced her, but I’ve been around boats all my life, no fuckin’ around with either of my ex-ladies,” He chuckled,”oh and Joey, you will polish her up right and nice and it won’t take very long since,” Sonny stopped, his eyes went from Joey to Jorge and then back again, “that’s what partner’s are for, to help ya, get it? Only I didn’t let Rico help with things like that, I was faster on my own.” “Yeah we got it.” Joey and Jorge said in unison giving a pained look at Sonny. “Oh c’mon girls, you’ll do fine and you’ll feel good about yourselves and she’ll look fantastic.” “You’re a pain in the ass, Crockett. But I have noticed the tarnish and I guess I should do some up keep on her instead of calling on Will all the time.” Sonny laughed, “Junior, there ain’t no callin’ on Will for this, spoke to him already. He says my cousin should learn how to take care of a beauty as the St. Vitus and I agreed with him. You’ll do fine. Oh and by the way it’s great to see you.” Crockett pulled Joey back in for another hug. All eyes had focused on the three. Most knew the tone in Sonny’s voice so they waited until he was done before pouring all over him with hellos and hugs. “I brought a present to cheer up this motley crew. Let me go get it.” Sonny gave an impish grin while he opened the double doors and waved his hand at Tubbs to come in. The squad filled with excitement at seeing Tubbs. He was surrounded by hugs and questions that he answered quickly to break up the crowd. Sonny stood back and watched with a proud and amused smile. Sonny saw Castillo standing in his door frame. After the rest of the group saw their Lieutenant they broke up and tried to look busy. The lean Hispanic approached Tubbs and Crockett. He held out his hand and shook the New York detective’s hand. “It’s a pleasure to see you, Ricardo.” Castillo said with a rare slight smile to his usually stoic face. “Thanks Martine, great to see you and the squad. I’ve heard good things from Sonny about the new kids.” “Yes, they have learned quickly. I have some work to do but drop by my office before you leave.” Castillo told Tubbs and then turned to Sonny, “Sonny, this is a nice surprise to see my two best ex-detectives.” He didn’t have to ask, he knew what Sonny had been doing and that Rico was still a detective, but up in New York. He kept track of Tubbs through the New York police department. It was easy since he knew Tubbs boss. Sonny, his usual physical self went over, shook hands with his former Lieutenant. “Good to see you again, Marty. Having a party on my boat tonight, I’m inviting the crew and hope that most can come. I know some are working but I think the boss can change some of my friend’s schedules around a bit and of course your own since you’re invited too.” Crockett gave Castillo one of his best smiles but knew that even though his smiles and charms worked on other’s it was harder to work it on his former boss and friend. But then he had the advantage of so many years at prying away Martin Castillo’s walls and then staying friends after he quit. He was sure it would work. “Yes, I think it can be arranged.” The Latino turned to go back to his office. Tubbs bent over to the blond. He giggled with a little sarcasm as he whispered into Crockett’s ear. “Man I see that cat is still as loquacious as always.” “You can say that again, except when you get him on certain topics, privately.” Crockett conspired with Tubbs. Tubbs shook his head. “Yeah, with a certain blond ex-detective who knows how to push at those walls. Crockett gave a wry smile. “Joo got it mon.” then followed to catch up with the Lieutenant. “Marty…..” Was all that was heard before the door to the office closed. **********************************************************Tubbs shook his head with a smile; if anyone could get Castillo to talk it was his ex-partner. He then strolled around speaking to a few people before being circled by Trudy, Gina, Switek and Switek’s new partner, Sammy. “So, Rico, what brings you down to the old stomping grounds?” Gina teased. “I missed my favorite ladies.” Tubbs said sweetly, kissing each woman on the cheek. “So you didn’t come down here to see your old pal, Stan. Maybe I should be insulted.” Stan stated with a smile. “C’mon Swi, of course I came down to see you too. See what everyone’s up to.” “How’s Valerie?” Trudy asked. Rico’s face exposed pain for a moment and then he casually answered the pretty black woman’s question. “Valerie and I have tried it for years and it still came out the same. It’s time to move on and stop trying to make the past work, it hasn’t in years. So I came down to be with Sonny and see some friends that I’ve missed.” “Rico, I’m so sorry.” Trudy told him, her voice held a sad note to it. “Rico, if there’s anything any of us can do, please don’t hesitate.” Gina said sincerely. “Don’t be sorry, it was a long time coming, just didn’t wanna see it. And thanks, just seeing you all helps a lot. So let me see that diamond I heard that Gordon, the lucky bastard, gave you. You have a good man there, Gina. And I hope he knows what a terrific lady he has in you.” Rico held up the hand that Gina gave him and admired the ring. A whistle came out at seeing the large, probably flawless, diamond, “Not to shabby, guess being the D.A. has its perks.” They all laughed at that. The women each gave another hug to their friend.“We have to get our costumes on. We still work the stroll once in a while, but Tanya and Julie have replaced us, thank God.” Trudy explained. “Yeah my feet are ruined from being in those damn heels for hours.” Gina smiled. Rico watched them walk away. God it was so good to see everyone, he felt so at home. He never realized how much being in Miami and in the vice squad unit, had become more his home, than New York and its police vice department. “Hey Tubbs, this is my new partner, Sammy. Sammy this is Rico Tubbs, the one I told you about.” Tubbs shook Sammy’s hand. He saw that Stan seemed to be happy with his partner and was glad for it. After what had happened with Larry Zito, it was good to see after so long that the portly detective finally partnered with someone that seemed to be good for him. “I’ve heard a lot of stories about the dynamitic duo. You and Crockett have made some name for your selves. Everyone always hears stories about the two of you, even in the academy I remember hearing about you guys. Matter of fact, Sonny comes in once a month to give lectures at the academy. “ “The dynamitic duo? Sonny, giving lectures on rules?” Tubbs laughed. Switek joined him in the laughter. “Yeah, that’s what everyone calls you two. Some great stories too. You should hear some of them, of course after being told so many times it’s like hearing a story from the tabloids, you know, exaggerated. That’s part of the fun of hearing them.” The larger detective snickered. “And Sonny, since he’s a civilian he can only lecture because he’s an ex-cop. Your buddy enjoys it and teaching the rookies. Like Sonny has always said, he has to teach them the right rules in undercover work, before teaching them how to break those same rules.” All three men laughed harder at the truth that was told. “Sorry, I have to get back to work, but it’s been a pleasure and you can tell Sonny I’ll be at the party tonight. I’m off at seven, so I’ll be there, catch you later.” “I’ll tell him. Great to meet you, Sammy.” “You too.” Sammy pleasantly told Rico as he went towards the file cabinet. Switek sat down and motioned for Tubbs to sit with him. “Hey, I’m sorry about Val. But I do need to talk to you about Sonny.” Stan spoke quietly. “What about Sonny? Is he ok?” Tubbs face took on concern. Was there something Sonny wasn’t telling him? Maybe it was what Sonny was holding back that Rico had felt last night. “No, he’s ok in his own way, you know our Sonny. But it’s this thing with Castillo. You know the lieutenant wants to be captain, but he won’t give up vice unless Sonny comes back on board in his place as the new lieutenant. You and I and everybody else knows that Sonny could do a great job and Castillo knows that too. Christ, Sonny’s been running vice for years. He did it with Lou and Castillo. Everyone trusts him, even the new kids, his instincts are hardly ever wrong. Castillo only has one month to answer and Sonny took the test four in a half years ago. That test is only good for five years, man. Our boy is running out of time. Do you know anything about why Sonny’s holding back? I mean he still has his fingers in the squad and I’ve seen him down at Metro-Dade talking with the higher ups. Strohe isn’t here anymore and he teaches at the academy, like I told ya. Maybe you can talk him into it? Maybe you’d come back now, too? I mean since Val and you are done….. Sorry, I didn’t mean to be insensitive.” Stan’s quick explanation and apology touched Rico. “It’s all good. Don’t worry about Val and me. As a matter of fact I spoke to Sonny last night about this very same thing. There’s something that’s blocking him, but I know Sonny and he does wanna take this. Just gotta find out what that block is. And you know the man ain’t a talker until he’s good and ready, if at all.” Tubbs was bemused by the whole problem. He continued to think about it, letting it roll around in his head. “So you think you can get him to do it? “ Stan asked hopefully. “You know no one can get that stubborn cracker to do something he isn’t ready to do or doesn’t want to do.” “But you said there’s a big part of him that wants to do it.” Stan reiterated. “Yeah.” Tubbs said as a light bulb went off in his head. “You know Stan, you’re right. I’m going into Castillo and get the works going for my transfer back down here. Told Sonny it wouldn’t bother me if he was my boss and I think that could start the ball rolling. ‘Sides, I don’t have anything to go home to, rather work here anyway. Then I’ll work more on that stubborn son of a bitch.” “Sounds real good and I’d really enjoy working with you again. You’re the senior lead detective up in New York, right?” “I’d like to work with you and the gang again too and yeah, I’m the senior lead detective up in Naw Yark.” Tubbs gave a confused gaze at his friend. “No, all I mean is that Sonny would have you to be his senior detective, though knowing Sonny he’ll be the hands on type, more so than Castillo.” “You got that right. Can’t see Sonny just doing paperwork, holding meetings with us and the higher ups and not having his hands on the operations around here.” The New Yorker agreed. “Plus, having you around will help with anger management, especially when he has to deal with the higher up, though he’s gotten better in civilian life.” Both men giggled at the thought of Sonny’s temper and his fleeting moods. “He would need an anchor for those moods of his.” Rico mused. They stopped talking when Sonny came out of Castillo’s office.“Hey partner, you ok?” Rico asked the question that he had always asked several times a day when they worked as a team. “Yeah, just wanted to find out some things ……… ‘bout……y’know, what I told you last night.” Sonny knew Rico understood what he was talking about. All the money he gave to the unit and what it was being used for. Sonny just didn’t want anyone to know and felt badly when he had to be so evasive around Stan. “I have to see the man myself so you behave yourself.” Tubbs told him, seeing how Sonny was eying up the ladies all dressed up to hit the streets. The subject changed quickly when Sonny looked at the four women coming into the squad room in their costumes. “You know me, Tubbs.” He spoke not taking his eyes off the four beautiful women. “Yeah, that’s what I’m afraid of.” Tubbs let out a chuckle and shook his head while heading for Castillo’s office. **********************************************************Sonny whistled, knowing that would get a reaction from Gina and Trudy. “You still play those boyish games, Crockett? One would think you’ve smartened up, some.” Gina smiled jokingly at her ex-lover. “Can’t help it, darlin’. You and Trudy always look soooo gooood. And seein’ the young, beautiful Tanya, wearin’ that number. Well now that there is just a crime. It can fire any man up and I’m not immune.” Sonny joked back, his Southern drawl coming out. “Come ‘ere, sweetheart.” Tanya stepped brazenly up to Crockett, her partner nervously stayed back by Trudy and Gina who were watching to see the next move. “Hey Crockett, it’s good to see you.” Tanya gave Sonny back the same fantastic smile as she let him snake his arms around her waist and pull her down on his lap. “I hear good things about you, darlin’, you’ve learned from the best.” He still smiled and gave her an affectionate hug, “Party on my boat tonight, why don’t you come with your partner who I haven’t had the pleasure of meetin’ yet.” “Crockett you are so incorrigible, but you were always one of my favorite cops.” She hugged him back and then motioned to her partner, “Sonny, this is Julie Parish. She’s been on board a month now. Julie, the famous Sonny Crockett, I told you about him and I know you’ve heard of him. Don’t be shy.” Julie stuffed down her nerves and hoped her cheeks weren’t noticeably red. Tanya had told her a lot about this man. She had also known the hell of a reputation he had. Julie couldn’t help staring at this older man who she found simply gorgeous. “I don’t bite darlin’” Sonny smiled; taking pleasure in the affect he knew he was having on this young girl. He took Julie’s hand. He stopped briefly to hear Gina put her two cents in. “I’d still watch out, I don’t think he’s had his shots.” Gina giggled with the rest of them. She too had fallen under the Crockett spell, his looks and charm, years ago. She could recognize the symptoms in the rookie. Sonny nodded at her joke, kissed Julie’s hand and turned his jade green eyes up at the young woman, “I’ve had my shots, sweetheart, don’t give them a listen. Even kept up on ‘em.” He drawled. The howls and laughs grew louder as the stakes of the game had grown.Julie felt embarrassed and again prayed that no one noticed the blush that heated her face. Tanya rose from Crockett’s lap. Julie could feel her palm sweat as he still held her one hand and didn’t know how Tanya could be so calm holding his other. “I know ya gotta go to work. Been a pleasure, be careful on the stroll.” “It’s not only that we gotta work, but I think Julie and me are too hot for you,” Tanya looked at Crockett’s lap, “my seat was getting, oh, shall I say, too hard?” Tanya winked as the howls kept up. “Well if that were true, darlin’, then I ‘spect you must have enjoyed it way too much.” Sonny enjoyed playing along and gave a winked back at the pretty detective. He stood up and watched as the girls started to leave. The ex-detective gave back another incredible smile to Tanya as she sauntered off. He got a kick out of watching Julie blush yet again when he directed the same devastating smile at her before she left to follow the other three women. “Good save, Crockett. I just love our tennis matches. I’ve missed them. I think Julie needs to get used to you and that good ole’ Southern boy charm.” She threw over her shoulder as she opened the door. Julie dashed quickly to the door making a mental note to straggle her partner at her remark. “So do I, so do I. And Julie, I hope you’ll come to the party tonight. I promise you’ll get used to me.” Sonny threw back at the girls. He had always liked Tanya after meeting her through Joey. Tanya was fun to joke around with and had balls, he liked that. Crockett watched her leave, amusement washed all over his face. He also found something sweet and alluring about this girl, Julie. C’mon Crockett, she’s too you for ya. He chastised himself. *********************************************************Tubbs came out of the office with Castillo. He saw Tanya leaving and heard the last part of what must have been why everyone was doubled over. He smiled, Sonny could sure get a room going, but he had also seen Castillo’s face at the noise. Although he saw a small amused look on the lieutenants face, that only Sonny could bring out, as he stood in the doorway. “Don’t you people have work to do?” Came the stoic voice. Everyone started to quickly get back to work after hearing their boss’s voice. Sonny laughed at this. He remembered how it felt to be on the other side. “You still have it, Marty.” The blond shook his head, “So what’s up partner?” Tubbs looked at the lieutenant. “Tubbs I’ll get right on the phone and get back to you. Good seeing you and having you back aboard. Sonny, it’s always good to see you.” Castillo filed back into his office. Sonny gave Rico a confused look. “Like I asked, what’s up, partner?” “Told ya I was thinking of transferring back down here and being here just made up my mind. I’m transferring back to Vice as senior lead detective.” He grinned at Sonny’s opened mouth. “Well, I’ll be damned. Guess congratulations are in order and the parties coming at the right time.” Crockett was mulling over what he had just learned. A pang of jealousy hit him at knowing that Rico would have his old job. Then again, Rico deserved it and Sonny would see him more. He tried his best to convince himself before doing what he did best and shrugged it off, for another time. Sonny wrapped his arm around Rico’s shoulder and Rico did the same as they said their farewells. “Do you know that everyone calls us the dynamic duo? And that they say we’re a legend in our own time?” “Yeah, they’re all embellished, heard some of them there stories, pal. Not to underestimate what we did out there. But we sound more like comic book heroes.” Crockett howled at the name he hadn’t told his buddy about, he tried to calm down before commenting on the second part of what Rico had asked, “I think it’s more like a legend in our own minds, type deal.” He saw the smirk he got back from his ex-partner, “oh c’mon, if anything we’ll make a mint with Marvel comics.” He released Tubbs shoulder and then bumped him. Both doubled over from laughter over the comic book joke. “And who would we be in the world of Marvel comics?” The words escaped through Rico’s laughter. He swore from how hard Sonny was howling that the blond swiped a tear from his face, before trying to calm down again. “How the hell do I know, maybe the Caped Crusaders. You being Robin, of course.” Sonny stopped to gasp in air and at seeing Tubbs sputtering with laughter as he held up his middle finger at Crockett. By the time they had finished clowning around the sun could be seen shining through the main doors to Gold Coast Shipping. Putting on their shade, they left knowing there was plenty to do in order to get ready for the party. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind.THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART FIVE The sun sunk down and the moon rose to take over, allowing a glow to shine off the water by the time the party was in full swing. A string of party lights danced around the deck, along the sides and onto the bow. Below, you could also see the cabin all lit up. Music bounced around the marina, swinging back to The Sanity Maintenance, where it came from. People were talking, laughing, eating, drinking and dancing to the beat of sound. A few crashers from the marina joined party when they followed the music and loud laughter to the boat. Sonny, being the host made his rounds to talk to people. He stopped to look toward the railing. What he saw was Julie standing alone, by that railing, drinking and watching what was going on around her. The blond smiled at how beautiful the detective was with the moonlight shining off her silky blonde hair. She wore a simple baby blue sun dress with straps that crossed her smooth tanned back, matching her eyes. A small golden locket and earrings, light make-up and healed sandals added to the attraction. God, the girl took his breath away. Again, his conscious scrutinized on how he was almost twenty years older than she. Slowly he walked over to her in his tight jeans, light green cotton shirt, tan jacket and his favorite boots. A smile curved on his lips before their eyes met. He leaned on the railing lowering his jade green eyes to her raise blue ones. “Now answer me this. Why are you standing here all alone and looking so beautiful?” Sonny questioned, the flirty smile still on his face. Julie smiled shyly up at him, “I guess I’m just enjoying the scenery.” “Well, from here, I’d say the scenery is amazing.” His eyes still held hers letting the shy blonde know that she was the scenery he spoke of. Her cheeks flushed, “I don’t know quite how to respond to that.” The ex-cop bent down a little more, his voice softened, “You’re cute when you blush. Did it several times this mornin’.” “I’d hoped you didn’t notice.” Her soft blue eyes gazed down. “You’re a woman of few words, I reckon. Why don’t we break the ice?” Crockett took his two fingers and gently slid them under the small chin, raising the young woman’s face up to meet his. “I guess I am at first. How should we break the ice?” Parish asked innocently. “By dancin’ of course. It’s a slow one so I think I can handle it. I don’t usually dance, you can ask around, but in this case a slow one won’t hurt.” Sonny slid Julie into his arms. He led her slowly away from the railing, glasses sitting on a near by table. Half way through the dance his hand caressed her long blonde silk and then the palm of his hand gently rested her head against his chest. He kept caressing her with his one hand as the dance lead into another. Christ my body temperature is souring. I shouldn’t be doing this, but damn it I can’t help it. Sonny’s body and mind fought. When the few dances were over and faster music came on Sonny stopped. Julie lay there a moment longer before raising her head that met with the tender lips that pressed against hers. The kiss started soft and gentle turning into one that was long and passionate. Electricity sparked through both bodies. Lips parting, hearts racing, they locked eyes. Sonny’s heart won over his mind as it usually did until he saw the look on Julie’s face. :”What?” He softly asked. ‘That was so wonderful, like a dream that I’d want to go on forever.” She turned her head down. “It was the same for me, too. I some how hear a but in your voice.” Sonny stated, knowing there was more to this beautiful line. “You’re right and here it is…….But I don’t think this is the right place.” She looked back up at him,” don’t get me wrong, please. I’m very attracted to you, really I am and I feel how, um, attracted you are?” She smiled watching him do the blushing this time. “Sorry, my turn to blush, but you’re right I am very much attracted to you.” Honesty came out in a hoarse whisper. He swallowed hard, embarrassed at how his body gave him away, he took a step back. “I’d love to see where this goes but I have to tell you I’m not that type to jump into bed with a man I don’t know very well.” The statement came with a small quiver. Sonny sighed. He knew she was right, “Well so much for me being a Southern gentleman. I’m really sorry. I can be a Southern gentleman, had a lot of practice.” A huge smile crept onto his face. Julie met the smile, “Sonny, I’d love to get to know that Southern gentleman, but not around a ship of people. “ “I think I’m the one that’s s‘posed ta say that line. I’d like to get to know you too. How about dinner tomorrow night?” “Yes, I’d like that. I get off at five so how about seven?” “That would be great. I’ll call you at the office tomorrow, y’know to get directions to your place?” “That’s fine, I’ll expect the call.” Julie had backed away, putting some more room between them. “Alright then, tomorrow it is. Right now I guess I’ll go mingle some more since I am the one throwing this shin dig.” Sonny gave a long glance, sighing, trying to break the daze. He had to get away from her and calm himself down. He hadn’t felt this strongly about a woman in some time, “Now you go mingle yourself, don’t go standing alone,” The twinkle of her eyes hit him making his head shake, “if I don’t leave now …….I’ll, um…..I’ll never leave. See ya tomorrow.” She shook her head yes added with a small laugh as he went off to mingle. Julie’s lips along with her body still tingled. She couldn’t wait until tomorrow night. ********************************************************* Sonny did in fact mingle. Rico had seen him with Julie and tease him, relentlessly. Finally Sonny had enough. He left Rico to go speak to a few more people. Crockett quickly found himself in a lengthy conversation with Joey and Jorge. Suddenly, his radar rose while he was talking to Hardin and Diaz. Why, all of the sudden did that old familiar feeling hit him? Was it just because of where he was and who he was with? No, his gut told him. He became distracted, in the middle of Hardin and Diaz telling him about a bust. Both of the young detectives noticed that Sonny was no longer listening. His eyes were bright, not from alcohol, but alert. Sonny was observing all the passengers on his boat. The alertness, both Joey and Jorge suddenly recognized, blaring a gaze at on another and then back at Sonny. “Sonny, what is it?” Diaz asked. Sonny shook his head honing in on a few people. Joey and Jorge followed the path where his eyes stopped. “Uh oh, crashers?” Joey asked, knowing what the answer would be. Sonny shook his head, he whispered to the partners, “Diaz, quietly go around and let everyone know about the crashers. We’re on and so are they. Tell them they are here to welcome Burnett and Cooper. Let Castillo and Tubbs know first.” He lightly pushed Diaz away and then turned to Joey. “listen pal, it’s time for us to go see these slime balls, as Burnett and his cousin Briggs, looks like about four of them. C’mon.” He pushed Joey’s shoulder with his own and then slowly strolled over to the four men. The vice crew slowly started surveillance as Diaz told them. Tubbs casually took Gina by the arm and walked closer to the unwanted crashers. “Act like we’re together and if we’re needed we’ll be close by.” Tubbs informed Gina who nodded. She put her arms around Rico and felt his arms go around her, “I’m so happy to see you again, I’m glad you and Burnett came down.” Gina said as they started to sway to the music taking turns in watching Crockett, Hardin and the crashers. They were close enough to hear whatever would be said and knew that Gina had been heard. Crockett came up to the four men who were drinking and eating while they talked. It could be innocent but they couldn’t take any chances he has whispered to Hardin. Crockett and Hardin had drinks in one hand when they came up to the young men. “I don’t remember seeing you four on my invite list.” Sonny used as his opening line. “You know these clowns, Joey?” “No Cous, I don’t. Where’d you boys come in from, like my cousin said you aren’t on the list.” Joey kept up Sonny’s tone, both looking at the men. The four men stood there calmly, the leader, a Latino man took up the lead.“My name is Fernando Alterez, my boats a few berths over from yours. We heard your music and didn’t know this was a private party. These are my friends, Juan, Alex and Manny. I know you are Joey Briggs and this here’s your cousin, Burnett I believe I heard someone say?” “Yeah, that’s right. I’m his cousin, Sonny Burnett.” His green eyes were cold as he spoke. “So you’re Sonny Burnett? I’ve heard a lot about you from around the marina. We haven’t met your cousin, Joey. But have heard of him too. Don’t know him personal like.” The man spoke to Sonny, holding back the fear of all he had heard about Burnett and his cousin. Drawing their attention, Joey spoke with warning, “Well now you know me boys and my cousin, here. So until I know you, I’d suggest you step on and go back to your boat.” Joey’s eyes stared at the men before he nodded to the dock, letting the butt of his gun be seen. “I think what my cousin is sayin’ is this here ain’t your boat, certainly ain’t your party. Come back when Joey here knows you better. You see in my line of work I don’t invite people I don’t know, unless, of course you have a resume to go with a name Joey, me or our partners know. I hope you’re getting our drift. So scram, guys, like my cousin said.” Crockett’s cold eyes narrowed dangerously. Now they could see the fear in all four men’s faces. “Ok, ok we go, no harm done.” The men slowly put there drinks down. “Now you’re answering the right way, adios.” Crockett sneered, “and have a good evening.” The men pushed against each other trying to get off the boat as fast as they could. When they were off, the four walked quickly away.******************************************************* Sonny and Joey smiled at one another as Tubbs, Gina, Castillo and Diaz came over to them. Sonny felt proud of how Joey had followed his lead, he knew the young man was good and had proven just that. “Joey, you did a great job. You followed my lead and ran with it.” Sonny nodded with approval. “Thanks, remember I‘ve worked with you before and I know how you operate.” Joey proudly stated. Castillo stood watching the interaction before he spoke, “Sonny, you’re a civilian and should never have been involved. This should have been Hardin and Diaz.” He stated firmly. “What?” He asked incredulously, “While I’m here I’m Burnett and Joey’s my cousin, Briggs. I got a feeling in my gut and went with it. I saw those hired thugs and figured the approach of Burnett and Briggs would make a better impression, plus get them the hell off my boat.” Sonny answered with agitation. Castillo looked at his young detective, “Hardin, you should have gone with your partner, Diaz and let Sonny come get me, you’re the detective. Now, crashers or hired men?” “Crashers I think. And yeah, next time I’ll go with my partner.” Hardin said in defeat. Sonny spun around to Castillo, “Now, listen Marty. Don’t take what I did out on Joey. I felt it and I made the call. I think it was the only call that made sense. He just went with me. I still don’t think they’re crashers!” Sonny stood up to Castillo. Rico watched. He had seen his partner go up against the lieutenant before, the only one that would. Those green eyes were storming with anger and something else that Rico couldn’t read. But he also knew that Castillo was worried for Sonny’s safety as a civilian, and which was right. Only he could also see his old partner’s theory and it made a hell of a lot of sense if he were still a cop. “Still, you aren’t a detective anymore and had no business getting in the way of a dangerous situation. The detectives should have known to handle this.” His eyes quickly took in Joey and Jorge before staring down Crockett. The man still knew how to make the play, and again he knew that Crockett wanted to come back to the force. He just couldn’t let a civilian get injured let a lot his own people, “For now we’ll figure they were crashers but keep an eye out.” He again glared at the blond, “Remember you aren’t a cop.” Was the stern ending to what the lieutenant had to say. Sonny couldn’t believe this, he threw up his hands. “I figured with a boat filled with police officers nothing would happen! Fine, I’m not a cop! I’ll stay out of your way. Just remember that cop or no cop here, I’m Burnett and, damn it I did what I thought best! Showing unity, between cousins!” Anger flashed over him as he made his point clear. Everyone was watching, staying out of the way. They remembered how Crockett would go up against Castillo and most of the time he’d get out what he had to say with Castillo listening, sometimes vetoing it and most of the times going along with it. Crockett turned to leave, “Ok, everyone go back to the party and enjoy yourselves.” He stated flatly. Annoyance filling him, he headed and climbed up to the flying bridge to sulk. Castillo watched the brooding younger man. Again he knew even more than ever that Crockett wanted back in. He hoped it would be sooner than later. The dark haired man turned and retreated back to the party. ********************************************************** Sonny flopped into the chair. He turned to watch the water that would usually calm him, but didn’t. What the fuck? Burned in his mind. He wasn’t surprised to turn and see Rico come to stand by him. Sonny stared up at Rico, “You up here to lecture me, Tubbs?” he curtly asked. Rico leaned against the second seat, staring back at his friend. “No, just wanted to make sure you cool down. We could go off to the subject for a moment and then talk about it.” He stated. “What’d ya mean, other subject?” he gave Tubbs a scrutinizing look, holding in his anger on what had happened a few minutes ago. “Noticed you and the rookie, Julie, dancing away and I thought I saw some of the Crockett moves. What was that, she’s too young for you?” Rico tried not to sound accusing or God forbid, jealous. He didn’t like the thought of Sonny with this girl, why was that? He didn’t know why. But the words came out anyway. Sonny’s stormy eyes grew harder at what he heard, “So now you’re going to say who I can date and why I can’t? I’m attracted to her if you have ta know. I reckon you can figure out the rest and if she hadn’t put the brakes on you may have been right. I don’t see how this matters here. The real subject is what happened on deck between me and Castillo. Isn’t it?” Sonny became more incensed. Rico figured he should reel in that jealousy. He just couldn’t understand it, but that would have to wait until they settle this thing. He was usually Crockett’s anchor and this was what he needed to be now, not let a rage of unknown feelings get in the way. “Ok man, you’re right, we’ll table this one for another time it’s really none of my business.” Tubbs conceded. “You’re right it ain’t your business. So lets get to it, the really subject, pal.” Sonny’s temper was flaring. “Right, lets get to it. I watched what went down tonight and for all purposes, you were right in what you did, buddy. You’re still a great cop with a sixth sense, that I never understood but believe in, it’s gotten our asses out of jams more times than I can count. So why aren’t you re-joining the force? Why the excuses? I have my own theories on this matter, let’s hear yours.” Rico stood up and watched the rage run through Crockett’s veins. Crockett quickly stood up, took his fist and rammed it into the fiberglass console. He hit is so hard that he winced and then took the hurt hand and held it with his good one. “Damn it, it was a good call, you said it yourself, maybe not in so many words but I know what you’re sayin’. Fuck.” Sonny squeezed his hand tighter, his back falling against the console. “Ok here’s my theory, man. I see a great cop whose lost his nerve, doesn’t believe in himself anymore, and has doubts. And also one that’s afraid if he becomes a lieutenant he won’t be able to get his hands dirty. Only tonight that cop didn’t have time to think about it and acted, even though you’re still a civilian, you made a call the Sonny I know would have made. And, it was the right one. As for the lieutenant's job I’m sure things can be worked out that you can take that promotion and still do some field work. As for Castillo, he was only concerned about your well being, you’re his friend, and you can’t fault him for that.” Rico summed up exactly what he saw, “what’s stopping you, man?” Rico asked with quiet concern. Sonny’s head dropped, his anger melted at what Rico had said. Quietly he answered his friend. “I know why Castillo did what he did, I just didn’t like it. And to answer your police questions, I dunno.” He answered what Rico said about Castillo first. And then the harder question second. It was a stupid answer, an answer that didn’t explain a thing, the only answer he had told Rico several times. His mind had been racing so fast he hadn’t even considered what Rico saw. Was Tubbs right? Maybe all Sonny needed to hear was what Tubbs said he saw in him. Tubbs became frustrated at getting the same answer. “You know all I’ve been getting from you are a lot of Dunnos. You know pal, you can, I dunno your life away and stay scared or you can challenge your fears and take the plunge. The Sonny I used to know wasn’t so afraid. Get over the last year of your career and all the Dunnos, ‘cause the I dunnos ain’t cuttin’ it anymore, buddy. Now I have to go get some ice for the party, a lot of thirsty people down there.” Rico barked, gave his friend a stern look and climbed down the ladder to allow Crockett time to absorb what was just said to him. Crockett stood with his mouth opened, unable to say a word after what Rico had just said. He watched the man climb down the ladder and started to go over every word Rico had said. After all, this was his best friend, ex-partner and even brother, who knew him sometime better than he knew himself. How could he be mad at what was told to him by a brother? He leaned against the console and finally dropped back into the seat. He started to rub his temples from the throbbing ache in his head. Christ, Rico was right with all that went on in his last year of being a detective. He had lost confidence in his own abilities, but saw them start to come back with what he had done tonight. Maybe that’s why he was so mad, because it finally felt right, felt good. But there was more bothering him, something more but this was a start, a start to giving an answer in a few days about the force. He wanted back in, he just had to figure out the rest of it and he knew that Rico had called that too, he wouldn’t be able to get into the field like he wanted to. Castillo did all his paperwork and was involved as much as he could be, but Sonny needed to be involved more in the field. How could he balance that out with the politics involved? Tubbs had once again been there for him. Maybe an answer would come later but now his head hurt and he needed something for it. A totally different thought quickly ran through his mind. Why was Rico so upset about him and that rookie, Julie? Was it really the age difference or was it because of Val and it made him jealous. Warmth of love spread through Sonny’s body for his friend. He’d talk to him later about it, he thought as he climbed down from the flying bridge. Rico went over to the ice machine. The lighting wasn’t good making it hard to see. He didn’t hear anyone come up as he counted out his change. All of a sudden he was grabbed from behind with a gun pushed hard into his back by a strong man that he couldn’t see. Another man with a mask on came up in front of him. Rico struggled but was stopped by the gun being pushed harder against his back. The man in the front chuckled, “Ah, Senior Tubbs, don’t worry we have orders to take you but not hurt you. Someone wants you very much alive. So you will understand that we must give you something, it will make you sleep. Just make your head hurt un poco in the morning.” The man laughed hard while he took out the cloth with his gloved hand. The cloth had chloroform soaked on it. He covered Rico’s face with it. Rico tried not to breathe it in. He knew what it was as he struggled uselessly against the men. After a minute he felt light headed, a daze started to cover his mind and then it was dark. The two men carried the detective to the well hidden van, stuffed him in and drove off hastily. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART SIX Sonny had taken some aspirins. He stood in the head, staring at himself in the mirror as he had done many times before. His thoughts were on what Rico had said about going back to the force. His mind ran through everything, his eyes no longer focused, while his hand touched the glass. Once again he found the rest of the answers in the mirror. He couldn’t wait until tomorrow, the blond thought. He’d find Marty and speak with him now about reinstatement. He’d be a detective until the things he was concerned about could be ironed out between him, the chief and the bureaucrats . When he felt comfortable, he’d take the lieutenants job with the Vice unit. Satisfied, he climbed up on to the deck and went seeking out Marty. Crockett spotted Castillo on the bow of his ship. He was talking to the chief and the temporary captain. Sonny wasn’t surprised. He had invited not only Vice, but had also invited other officers that he’d known from all his years on the force. This also included people higher up that he dealt with in giving his regular donations. Crockett walked up with a drink in his hand to the three men talking. The conversation stopped once he was noticed. Sonny smiled as he acknowledged the men, “Marty. Hi ya Bill, Steve, glad you could make it. I was actually coming to talk to Marty, but, this concerns the two of you as well.” They all shook hands and nodded at their friend. He had all of their attention, now he just had to get his thoughts out. He felt nervous. This was a big step for him. “Dunno why I’m fretting about this talk.” He drawled and took a swig of his drink for courage before continuing, “Oh hell, I’ve come to a decision regarding reinstatement to the Metro-Dade police force, to Vice. I’d like to do this as quickly as possible, joining at my old rank first, y’know, to get my feet wet again. But I also have some concerns ‘bout the lieutenant’s job. Figured we could iron those out while I’m on the job and when we all feel comfortable then I’ll take the promotion and Marty here can take the Captain’s promotion.” Sonny put his hand on Martin’s shoulder while he finished spilling out what he had to say. All three men smiled, first looking at each other before looking back at Sonny Crockett. Sonny realized something was going on. His head tilted in confusion. “What? I know I have to do a lot of things in order to come back, but I’m ready to start. Just tell me.” Sonny bemusedly inquired. The chief laughed, “Sonny, calm down. Martin, here, was pretty sure of you and we’ve looked into different things that you’ve been doing when you’ve come up to the academy.” Sonny’s head was rolling, if confusion could get worse, it did, “Wha …… what do you mean?” He questioned. Castillo turned to talk to his bewildered friend, “Sonny, I could see that you wanted to come back, but you had reservations. I started a file and gave a copy to the chief. Knowing you, I thought I’d be prepared.” Martin gave a slight smile. Sonny cut his nervous confusion by teasing the Latino, “Marty, you were always one to be prepared, must’ve been a boy scout.” There were small chuckles before the ex-cop’s ears perked up and he turned to the chief. The chief began to explain. “Sonny, over the past four years you’ve been coming down to the academy for lectures on different matters. Now in doing this you are required to read and sign all memos and updates, that’s one thing out of the way. Another requirement is qualifying for certification on the gun range. You’ve done that. All three tests you take every month and we’ve kept all of you scores and sign offs, by you and Charlie. You’re still the best around with a gun. I think your last score was 300 out of 300 and before was 299 out of 300. I don’t need to go on. Last month we had you take a medical exam,” the chief chuckled, “you didn’t really need that but we made an excuse so we could have it in the file we were making. After all we had already made the offer by that time. Sorry for the deception, but we all knew you’d come around. You passed and all the rest of the paper work is ready for you to sign. So, you come down to Metro at seven a.m. tomorrow, sign the paperwork, take your photo in order to get your shield back and then down to get your guns and anything else you need. I’d say by ten a.m. you’ll officially be back as a lead investigating sergeant in Vice, right where you belong. After that we’ll do as you said and go over your concerns. Personally, and I think I speak for all of us, I think getting your feet wet will be the right thing to do before you take on the lieutenant’s job.” All three men watched the shocked look that etched over Crockett’s face. “So you pulled one over on me.” He stated and then looked at the Latino from Vice, “you were that sure of me, Marty?” He ran a hand through his hair, “Remember, I said that my concerns would have to be dealt with to my satisfaction before I’d take that there promotion.” The sea green eyes searched around before landing back on the black eyes of the lieutenant’s. Martin gave a light shake of his head, “Yes, I was that sure of you. Sonny you will make an outstanding lieutenant with Vice.” Castillo saw the acceptance in those sea green eyes at what he had just said. “And Sonny, the chief just said we’d deal with your concerns.” He reminded the happy blond. “Ok, I’ll be down at Metro by seven a.m. And Marty, I’m glad you were that sure of me. I hope I don’t disappoint.” Sonny gave a lopsided grin. “You won’t and then Martin can take my place and I can finally retire.” The Captain said in a sigh of relief. “Just make sure you get there without a hangover. And remember, Crockett, Tubbs is now in your place as first lead investigating sergeant. That will already give you a good start when you take the promotion,” Martin said almost in a teasing manor to Sonny. “Nope, Ya all know I can hold my liquor. Yeah, I know I’ll be second to Tubbs. But I’ll be in the game, with Rico and back at the field,” The Southerner acted as anxious as a kid, “Now I have to find Rico and tell him we’ll be partners again, officially. Thanks.” He quickly shook the three hands, gave a grateful wink to Martin and was off to find Rico. ********************************************************** Sonny went quickly around the whole boat, inside and out to find Rico. He knew his partner would be pleased that he had taken the plunge, especially after how Rico left the subject. Rico understood him so well and knew how to handle him. On the other hand, he too, understood Tubbs just as well. That was one of the beautiful things about them. The smile that wouldn’t leave his tanned face broadened. Rico had gone all the way on this one, he shook his head thinking. All the plays were done right, the talks to make him think, the transfer, and Martin must have told the darker man about the files. Rico ran with it and damn it if he hadn’t scored a touchdown for the winning team to get James “Sonny” Crockett, back. It worked. Of course Crockett would have to tease Tubbs about this, first thing was to find him. After fifteen minutes Sonny came up short. He knew every nook and cranny of his boat and Rico just wasn’t on it. The hair on the back of his neck stood up along with that feeling in his gut. Crockett started asking everyone around if they had seen his missing friend. He came up to Gina and Gordon, who were sitting very cozy and talking quietly. “Hey Gina, Gordon, you seen Rico?” The anxious question tumbled out of his mouth. Both stared up at the blond man that wore a quizzical look. “Sonny, thanks for inviting us, it’s a great party.” The D.A. smiled up at the man that still wore that strange look. Gina recognized the emotions that were passing over Sonny’s face. First worry and then annoyance at not having his question answered. “Sonny?”“I’m glad you’re enjoying the party, pal, but I asked a question.” Came the vociferous gravely voice. Gordon held up his hands, “Ok, ok, Sorry, haven’t seen him.” Gordon replied with puzzlement. “Sonny, what’s wrong? I know you and something’s up.” Gina asked her ex-lover. She knew Sonny and feared something was very wrong for him to come across so incensed. “I’ve gone all over this boat and Rico isn’t anywhere. I know he went for ice,” he looked at his watch, “’bout an hour ago.” His eyes held Gina’s, hoping for the right answer but knowing he wasn’t going to get one. “Oh God, Sonny, that’s the last time we saw him. He said he was off for more ice.” Gina jumped up. Gordon watched as the two went to different coolers in unison. Both exchanged worried glances at what they found. “No ice, only water. He never came back.” Sonny shifted from foot to foot, thinking. “Same here. Maybe he found a lady and cuddled up on her boat, licking his wounds from Valerie?” Gina asked hopefully. “No, my gut tells me he was grabbed and I bet I know by who. Bet anything it’s those scumbags, Fernando and his crew.” He pushed his hand through his windblown hair, “I’m going to Castillo. Gina, you get the squad together.” “Is there anything I can do?” Gordon stood up. “You can fry them when we find those low lives and get Rico back.” Gina nodded to the command, kissed Gordon on his worried lips and then scampered off. ********************************************************** Sonny made it to the bow in record time. The three men were still in conversation when the frustrated and troubled man approached them. Seeing the look on the ex-detective’s face halted the conversation. “Sonny, what’s wrong?” The chief asked, Martin stood and studied his friend. “I’ve covered this whole boat, every crevice and I can’t find Rico. He went over an hour ago to get ice. Me and Gina checked the coolers to find nothing but water, he never came back. I had Gina assemble the squad while I came to get you, lieutenant. I think its Fernando Alterez and his crew. He came on board to survey the situation and then grabbed Tubbs for who ever this slime ball is working for.” Sonny explained with anger, wishing he had paid more attention to his gut at the time. Why hadn’t he acted on it? He chastised himself again. “Crockett.” Came that steel voice he’d come to know so well, “You’re still a civilian and can’t be calling the squad together.” Crockett pivoted around to face the lieutenant, “Christ, maybe I’m not official until tomorrow morning, but Marty, we have to move now and you know it. Damn it, they have Rico!” The heated voice fired out. “Yes, and we will go down and find him, but remember, you are still a civilian.” Martin reminded sternly while the other gentlemen shook their heads in agreement. “Right, I’m a civilian that WILL be going along with you all. I’m not carrying. Marty you can’t keep me out of this, he’s my friend, my partner and as of tomorrow, like you stated, I will be official, so I’m going. I know that’s crystal clear. Now we’re wasting valuable time.” Crockett stared with stormy narrow eyes at Castillo’s steel black ones. Finally Castillo shook his head. Sonny was always hot headed but he was often right and they needed to get on this quickly. He’d make sure Sonny stayed by him while they searched for leads to where Tubbs had been taken, or was. “Ok, let’s do this.” All four men descended on to the deck where the party had been broken up, the music off and a group of officers stood in wait. Castillo stood in front of the group, Sonny on his right, the chief and captain to his left. Castillo glared at his people and saw the emotion in them, the readiness for command. These were good people, he knew they’d find something and silently said a prayer for Ricardo’s life. “Trudy, Gina you go look around the one part of the dock for this boat that the perps spoke about. Julie and Tanya you go in the other direction and do the same.” The Latino directed. “Lieutenant how do we know they are the perps and not just crasher like we thought?” Tanya asked. “We don’t, until we find them.” He simply stated before firing off more orders, “Stan, Sammy you take the back of the store. Hardin, Diaz, the front. Sonny you follow me around to the ice machine, and remember, you are not a cop right now so don’t be a cowboy.” Castillo couldn’t remember how many times he had told Crockett and Tubbs that, but he hoped the stubborn blond would listen this time. “I’ll be in the back round if there’s any firing. But I’m not going to stand around if he isn’t there. I’m going to check everything out, meticulously.” Sonny adamantly stated. The chief spoke up at that point, “Martin, there are other officers here that are more than willing to help. I don’t know any officer that doesn’t carry a gun on or off duty. I think we should make use of them, just in case. I’ll go call forensic in case we need them.” The chief moved to the phone down in the cabin. “All other officers, I want a circle around the store, keep in the dark incase and don’t do anything until I give the word.” Castillo directed. ********************************************************** The store stood between the dock and the wall to the highway, a luminescent lamp hung over the wall. Another lamp shown, flickering dimly on and off, hovering over the building. The officers moved out quickly in route to the store, they circled without being seen. The women took to the docks walking casually in order not to draw suspicion while they observed each boat for Tubbs. Stan and Sammy moved first, they got to their position easily and unseen. Diaz and Hardin moved to the front, hiding in the shadows so they wouldn’t be noticed. Castillo went first. Martin moved like a cat with Sonny closely behind, crouching down in the darkness until they found the point they’d be situated at. ********************************************************** Hardin nodded at his partner to go first while he covered him. The door was locked. Diaz gave Hardin a glance with a shrug. No one could be seen from inside, they slipped around to Castillo. “Doors are locked, can’t see anyone inside or anything amiss. Looks clear.” Diaz reported to his boss, Hardin nodded in agreement. Sonny listened to what had been said. “I think they’re gone, don’t think you’ll find anything inside.” Crockett commented. Before he finished Stan and Sammy were now standing amongst the four men.“He’s right Lieutenant. Back door is locked and doesn’t look messed with. We didn’t see a thing except tire tracks. Now, the print of the tires, to me, makes it out to be a van and they were very anxious to get out of here.” Stan took them over to the tire prints, the dimming light made it hard to see. Sonny took a flashlight out of the back of his pants. He turned it on, shining it where Stan was looking. Stan gave Sonny a smile, “You always carry a flashlight with you just incase? Makes me think of a thing or two.” “No you air head, I thought and grabbed it. I know how the lighting is over here. Now finish, before I do some bodily harm to ya.” Sonny groused. “Ok then. See here were the tracks are dug in deep from the tires? This shows they spun out quickly and you can follow the trail towards the highway. The size of the tires could be from a souped up car. But I’d bet anything, like I said before, a van on a quick get away.” Stan stood up from his knelt position as he finished explaining. Castillo mulled over what Switeck had just explained. “Ok, then we go with that they have Tubbs.” He turned and called in the teams that surrounded them. Then he went and talked to the person in charge of forensics. Sonny went his own way. He scavenged around the area by the ice machine and then called over to Marty. Marty and the other detectives came over to Crockett. “What do you have?” Castillo asked. “Ok, here, here and here are foot prints.” Sonny pointed them out with his flashlight, “one set is in front, I’d say the leader, these back prints, the guy that held and drugged Tubbs. The middle prints are scattered so he put up a fight before passing out and being taken to the van.” Castillo nodded in agreement with Crockett. The other four gave a questioning look at the blond. “Why do you think he was drugged and not rapped on the head or just tied up?” Hardin asked, going over the prints with his eyes and the theory in his head. Sonny held up a stick that had a piece of cloth hanging from it, “This. Marty I think you want forensics to run this to the lab and I need an evidence bag.” Marty called someone over and then continued to listen. Crockett glanced around to all the men and then back on to Hardin, “See Joey, this cloth has a certain chemical smell to it, which would be chloroform. The cloth is almost dry, so I’d say this wasn’t used more than an hour in a half ago. They probably wore gloves so there won’t be finger prints but it’s worth a try,” Sonny then pointed the light down on something that shined up at them, “Rico must’ve dropped the coins he was going to use for the ice, he never heard them come up on him. They had this planned and I wanna know who they’re workin’ for, who hired the muscle,” Crockett spoke with determination in his voice. He then dropped the cloth into an evidence bag, the forensic officer also scooped up the coins before leaving. “We all want to know, Sonny. We should have some results with in less than an hour the Forensics team said. I think you’re right about the gloves,” Castillo told Sonny and then the group after quickly talking to the other team. He knew Sonny hadn’t lost his edge and this clearly showed it. Now they’d have to do what Sonny had said, find out who hired the team, “I want all personnel to report right away to OCB. Diaz, get the ladies and fill them in. Sonny, you’re still a civilian……..” Sonny cut the Latino off, “I’m in on this case. I’m a civilian until tomorrow morning and will finish everything up as fast as I can. You can’t keep me out of tonight’s strategy session.” The soon to be detective urgently demanded. “Alright, ride with me.” Was Martin’s only answer, he knew Sonny wouldn’t let go of this case. He won’t expect anything different from the well trained and dedicated man. The hurt of losing Ricardo was apparent, but as always was hid behind hardness. Castillo knew that if he were Sonny he’d be making the same demands. ********************************************************Sonny entered the small conference room at OCB; it had been a long time since he had been in there for a strategy session. He saw the unit all assembled, sitting around the rectangular table that sat in the middle of the room with new chairs. He glanced quickly around. He saw the chalkboard, along with a new TV and VCR and the map that was always attached to the wall. He couldn’t sit. He used to sit in the empty place that his eyes honed in on and Tubbs would be in the spot right next to him. They’d lean against each other or Tubbs would wake Crockett up if he were hung-over or had a late night. Fond memories drifted through his mind, but he couldn’t think of that now, shrugging them off he paced the floor waiting for Castillo to start. All he could think about was finding Rico and who was responsible. He again pushed the guilt out of his mind and stopped in mid pace when Castillo entered the room. All eyes fell on the lieutenant. “The Forensic report states that you were right, Sonny. The cloth had a heavy dose of chloroform soaked into it and it sat there about an hour in a half. No prints, they were gloved. Stan, those tires did come from a van.” Castillo stopped reading from the report he had just gotten. He raised his eyes to stare at his people before continuing, “I want you all on the street tomorrow pushing your informants, hard. Trudy you stay in the office and run the name of this Fernando Alterez, see if it’s a real name and who it connects him too. See who was let out of prison recently that might have been put away by Tubbs and Crockett or had something against them. Sonny, after you finish up down town come to OCB and take an hour to help with the files. I then want you paired up with Hardin and Diaz, making it as if Burnett, Briggs and Hernandez are looking for their other partner, Cooper. We’ll start on the streets at 8 a.m. and meet back here at 5p.m., sharp. Hopefully we’ll have something we can use by then.” Castillo searched the room for questions. He saw Sonny deep in thought, still pacing. “Marty, I’ll quickly look at what files Trudy has and then radio Hardin and Diaz when I’m ready to ride with them. I think I’ll visit my good friend Izzy sometime during the day. He still around?” Sonny waited for an answer while the empty Styrofoam coffee cup left his hand and found the table. “Yeah, Izzy’s still around. But Sonny, he works at a legit business and is off parole. I don’t know what he can do or what you can use to push him on.” Switek informed his friend. Sonny stopped and gave Stan a wry smile, “Oh really, a legit business? Don’t you worry Swi, I can twist that bird brain around my pinky a few times over.” He shook his shaggy mane, “What’s the legit business?” He asked curiously. “Um, he manages a hair salon for rich people.” Stan answered, head tilted with a smile. He knew that his friend was thinking of a way to twist that informant. Truth be told, he’d love to twist Izzy’s neck himself. “A hair salon, huh?” Crockett started laughing at the thought, “I just don’t see it, but then again, I reckon he could do worse. After all his hair brain schemes that weren’t legit, most were pretty strange. I think I’ll enjoy seeing our friend again and since I know you just love Izzy so much Swi, why don’t I ride with you for this one special meet. He knows us and doesn’t have to see Burnett with Briggs and Hernandez. It will be our last stop. And then Joey, I’ll catch up with you and Jorge, here, again at 5 o’clock. Don’t be late, kids.” Sonny told them all in the middle of the amusing thoughts of Izzy laying his bullshit on all those clients. He knew he could find something to use against Izzy. The man for some reason liked Sonny and for some reason, Sonny enjoyed taunting the bug eyed Latin with their little chats. Maybe it was because Izzy was so entertaining in a weird sort of way. Their strange relationship always gave the blond a good laugh when he squeezed the informant. Castillo knew that Sonny hadn’t realized that he had taken a step towards his old position as lead investigator. Not like Crockett used to, it was only towards the end as the familiarity was coming back to the detective. Castillo smiled inward at seeing how fast his friend was falling back to being one of the best detectives he’d ever known, first on the boat, then the evidence at the store and know this. Yes, it would take only a little time before the detective was back and Castillo knew that over the past four years Sonny had learned to curve some of his ways, but not all. He had faith though, that the unit would still follow Crockett into the depths of hell if the blond had asked. And that’s what a unit needed from a leader, complete trust in that person. And James “Sonny” Crockett had that. Martin dismissed the meeting. He knew there weren’t too many hours before they had to get back to OCB, so he encouraged a little rest. Tomorrow would be a long day. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART SEVEN The room was dark with a musty smell to it, Tubbs noticed after he first opened one eye and then the other. His head was pounding, must have been that damn drug, he thought. Slowly and carefully to keep the pounding at a minimum, he sat up. One would have thought he was a statue, sitting there, waiting for the dizziness to go away. Another lovely side affect, he thought. Glancing around he wondered where he had been taken. Somehow it felt familiar. Standing, he held on for a moment to get his balance. Wait, was the room moving? He wondered if the dizziness had left. No, the feeling was familiar. Thinking about it while seeing a bathroom, it hit him. He felt like he had when he stayed on the St. Vitus or the Sanity Maintenance, this was a boat! He was on someone’s boat, but whose? Rico pushed the light switch, squinting as the room brightened. Nothing much, a full sized bed, a dresser and then the bathroom, didn’t seem like the Hilton to him. He felt a leg cuff on his ankle with a chain that seemed only to let him go as far as the bathroom. There were no windows so he couldn’t tell if it was night or day, and the dark color of the room didn’t help either. He stepped into the bathroom, turning that light on. To the detective it seemed like a Psych ward, nothing to hurt himself or anyone else with, that’s how the rooms were. The bathroom mirror wasn’t glass, it was like the wards, fuzzy mirrors you could see in but couldn’t break. There was the toilet, and shower, a hand and bath towel draped on the sink. “This should be interesting to figure out how to escape†he thought out loud while examining the bathroom, closer. There were no cups, so he just bent over and gulped the water, some dribbling out of his mouth. Guess I’ll have to wait to see who my captor is before I can figure something out, he decided after getting his fill of water. I sure the hell hope the squad is looking for me, ran through his mind. But how would anyone know he was on a boat? Usually positive, the detective sank back down on the bed worrying about his predicament, while he lay his aching head down. What he wouldn’t give for aspirin right now. Tubbs let sleep start to take him over, the words echoing in his mind. “We have orders to take you but not kill you.†He wondered what that meant before sleep fully took him. A loud banging of the door startled the black man awake. Getting up in a sitting position he tried not to show his emotions. He knew that Crockett, in his position would show either calm or anger but nothing more, just trying to play with the captors for information. Rico considered this before acting. That’s when he noticed two men in the room. One was the hulk and then a smaller man. They were the ones that crashed the party. The ones Sonny kept saying weren’t crashers; they were there for a reason. Well, buddy, your sixth sense is still intact, he thought to his friend. The bigger man he remembered as Fernando Alterez and the smaller was Alex. He was scrutinizing them while Alex put a tray of food down on the night table. Again, he noticed only plastic and paper, nothing that could be useful. “Here’s some food, cop.†Fernando spit out, “You are not to be harmed as I told you. Oh and here are the aspirins for the pain that ails you.†He snickered. Rico put them on the tray, “What do you want from me?†came the stoic voice. “Our employer has a friend who wants you alive, senor. But you will be an interesting project when Doctor Lee starts with you. You’ll be as harmless as a gato, the man told us.†Alterez laughed at the thought. “And who is this employer that wants to use me as an experiment to make me as harmless as a cat? And why?†Rico asked, no fear showing while he kept scrutinizing the men. “You’ll find out soon enough, amigo.†The door opened letting the two men out and then it was locked and bolted. Damn it, I’m going to be an experiment? Rico spied the tray. Again he found nothing he could use. He banged his fist on the table in frustration, knocking over the tray. Taking deep breaths to calm down, his eyes went to the food on the floor. Patience and waiting was all he had at the moment. ********************************************************** Sonny finished everything in record time. Getting his shield and guns, he also picked out another black Ferrari, since his was still parked at the marina in the Keys. He loved the power behind it as he rolled into the parking garage at OCB. It felt good to be able to come in and show his badge instead of waiting for a visitors pass. The detective entered the squad room and reported to Martin Castillo. He knocked on the door. “Yes.†Sonny opened up the door seeing Martin’s eyes rise to meet him. “Marty, I do believe they said down town that I did everything in record time. Then again I’ve always been that way, can’t stand the waiting.†The blond showed the lieutenant his badge and signed another paper, “Guess I’m official, no more of this civilian bullshit.â€Sonny told Castillo, leaning his weight on his palms that pushed against the desk. “It’s about time.†His friend said before giving instructions. “See Trudy about those files and then call Hardin and Diaz and ride with them until you and Stan have to see Izzy. Back here for the meeting.†Castillo told him while he stood. He then shook Sonny’s hand, “Good to have you back, Crockett.†“Thanks, now it’s time to get the wheels moving. See ya at the meetin’.†Sonny raced out of the office. Crockett didn’t care if he had a desk at this point but saw a few men come in and make one for him. The desk was positioned against another empty desk that only had a few things on it like his. He would have laughed if it didn’t tear him apart to know that the desks were in the same position he and Rico had had them before leaving four years earlier. The other desk he knew was Rico’s. The detective took in a deep breath staring at the two desks before pushing down his jumbled emotions. He found himself at the desk of a beautiful black woman detective that he knew all to well, Trudy. “Glad to have you back, Sonny. Are you going to pull the same crap as before and leave me with all this paperwork?†She asked with suspicion. “Me? No darlin’, I’ll take a quick look, add my opinions and then split.†He winked at her shaking head. “Some things never change.†Sonny bent over Trudy and went through the files. The detective singled out the few he though were more of a possibility than the others. “Ok, that aughta do it. Thanks. See ya later, sweetheart.†He kissed her on the cheek and then grabbed his jacket. Trudy raised her head, no surprise on her face. “Well thank you very much, detective Crockett.†Heading out the door, Sonny yelled over his should, “Welcome.†He was through the double doors and on the phone to Hardin before Trudy could say another word. ********************************************************* The lock on the door jiggled letting it open and allowing the same two body guards along with a Chinese man carrying a leather bag to enter. Rico shuddered inside at that strange bag. “I know it’s not my birthday, so what’s all this?†“Mr. Tubbs, I’m Doctor Lee and I get to brain wash you.†Lee stated with an evil smile. “Only the boss wants me to start slow. Says he wants you to see and know a few things before I turn your mind around.†The Chinese man laid the bag on the night stand. “Is that so.†Was all Tubbs said before his hand pushed the bag off the night stand. “Hold him down!†Doctor Lee’s voice rose in anger to the body guards. He then started putting his bag back together. The two guards wrestled with Tubbs. Rico got in a few punches before a fist caught Tubbs face and pounded his gut. Both men were then able to get the detective into a non-moving position. “This is to sedate you. But don’t worry, when the time is right the boss wants you to feel the painful emotions and then I’ll take them away and replace them with the ones his partner wants you to have.†Doctor Lee pushed the air out of the syringe. Seeing a drop of fluid, he found a vein and injected the chemical. Tubbs felt the drug pull at him, calm him and take all the fight out of his mind. Was this the Twilight Zone? He didn’t know. The New Yorker did know he felt as relaxed as if he were lying on a beautiful beach in Miami. That wasn’t music playing in his head, only the door shutting and then his dream continued on. ********************************************************** Crockett rode with Hardin and Diaz for a few hours. They didn’t get much before Crockett got his Ferrari and picked up Stan, leaving Sammy with the van so he could keep interrogating informants. Stan got into the car and whistled, “Nice, seems your taste in cars hasn’t changed much.†“Naw, still like ‘em fast and sleek.†Sonny gave a tight grin to the portly detective. “Hey, how you gonna work in Vice with still having your business? Then you have to get your car from the Keys. I mean that’s gonna be hard to turn over from Crockett’s name to Burnett’s, but I know I can do it.†Stan asked, turning his head to Sonny. “Swittie, I have a friend who’s been interested in my business and buying me out, I’ll let him. And as for the car, don’t worry. I’ll give that to Billy, he’ll be driving soon enough. Caroline will have a fit, but I’ll have it brought up there anyway and then sign it over to her. She can then trade it in on something more suitable for Billy. All washes out in the end, buddy.†The blond shrugged, lower lip pushed up against his top lip in thought. “Rather use the department’s car anyway, wouldn’t want to mess up mine.†“Sounds like a plan. Now what about Izzy? Without parole, it’ll be hard to get anything out of that bug. Even if he does still have connections to the street, how are we going to play this?†Stan wondered. “C’mon, Stan. I’ll get it out of him, just don’t know how yet. I’ll improvise and you back me up on it. I reckon we ‘aught to be able to come up with something to make the weasel talk. Now what’s the name of this place? I know it’s on this street.†“Oh, don’t you remember our favorite upper class hair salon, The Hair Emporium?†Stan laughed remembering how they had used Gina to see if the Lieutenant had been right in a home invaders case. “Oh yeah, I remember that case.†Crockett remembered with a smile. He remembered the older lady who had turned out to be a lot of fun with the officers and a flirt to boot. And then he remembered his first boss, John Malone resign due to that case. Then his thoughts went back to Izzy Moreno. His forehead creased and his face tightened in annoyed bemusement, “How the hell did that rodent get a job there, anyway?†“I guess they were desperate? I’m sure you’ll find out for us, though.†Switek chuckled. “Damn straight. That’s not all I’m gonna find out though. He better have something ‘cause the streets are closed mouthed.†Crockett spun the car into a parking spot, not wanting the valets to touch it. ********************************************************** Both detectives stepped into the glamorous salon. Only the best clientele sat in the expensively decorated rooms, with the best equipment. Flowers where everywhere, drinks served and the smallest whims were answered. Switek and Crocket glanced around while trying to find Izzy. Switek gently elbowed Crockett, nodding his head toward Izzy, who was speaking with a client. The two walked over to where Izzy was just finishing up. Switek stood next to Crockett who gave Izzy a tight lipped grin and a simple wave of his fingers. “Excuse me. I have some business to attendant, pleasure to see you again.†Izzy quickly walked away from the customer and motioned for the men to follow him to a corner in the back of the salon. Izzy’s face turned from one cop to the other, he saw the grin still on Crocekett’s face.“Crockett, so good to see jou, jou look muy bien, amigo. It’s been, what, four years, mang?†“Amigo, it’s been four years way to long.†Crockett laughed and waved his hand around the expanse of the salon, “How’d ya get this gig, Iz?†Izzy followed Crockett’s hand before turning his focus back on the detective. “Oh jou mean dis. A friend of a friend’s, cousin. Yeah, she knows de owner, it’s legit, I swear. I handle upper classmental peoples. Mucho dinero in this.†Izzy explained nervously. Crockett had to laugh again. He missed this crazy informant who always seemed to entertain him, especially how he mix his Spanish and screwed up his English.“Another friend of a friend thing, sounds ‘bout right. And ah, Iz, I would be careful how you say things around your upper classmental people,†Crockett calmed down to a chuckled, he heard the same from Stan, “Because I’m sure that classmental isn’t in the dictionary, however, mental is and it ain’t pretty to add that on to a word, especially when talking to upper class people, got it?†“Oh sure, right, tanks mang. What are jou doin’ here, or do I wanna know?†Izzy became nervous again. “Well Iz, I need some information.†“I am legit, Crockett and off of parole so you can’t force me. Besides I have left the scum of the cities streetwise.†Izzy smiled proudly. “Is that right? I think we need to talk somewhere private.†Crockett grabbed the Latin’s arm while Switek grabbed the other and led him into a room, locking the door behind them. “We can’t be in here, mang. Da boss, he have a fit.†“Don’t worry about DA BOSS, worry about ME.†Crockett firmly warned. “I told jou, I don’t have my ear in da street.†Izzy backed away from the two police officers and took on a bemused look, “I thought you wasn’t an officer of da law anymore?†Crockett moved closer to Izzy and started to play him. “But I am, now. Matter of fact as of today,†Crockett flashed his badge at the informant, “C’mon Iz, I know you better than that. You may be legit but you still have some action going on. I need this information as in yesterday. Now you could take door number one and give it up or door number two. In case you don’t remember that means we make your life a living hell. What’s it gonna be, pal?†Crockett ran his hand up and down the left lapel of the jacket Izzy wore. “No, jou can’t do that. I have rights as a citizen of the great country of the United States.†Sonny shook his head, “Oh now you speak better English? Ok, Switek, its door number two for Izzy Moreno and behind door number two are violations of every kind. For starters the ventilation system in here isn’t up to code. Oh and I think I should call INS. Noticed some of your employees are illegal, you know, no Employment Authorization card or Resident Alien card. What else is behind door number two, Stanley?†Crockett’s brow rose. Stan came around with a pad and pen. He had been pretending to write down what Crockett had been naming off. “Well Sonny, I noticed the electrical system in here. Way under specs. Not enough outlets, the voltage in some areas are wrong. Shall I go on?†Stan smiled offensively at the Cuban. “No, no……..I do have a few friends. Jou’re looking for whoever took Tubbs?†“Ah, yeah, that would be our point here.†The blond stated sarcastically. “Why didn’t you say dhat in da beginning? I heard from a friend who heard…….†Crockett pulled both his hands around each lapel and lifted Izzy off of the floor and pushed him hard against the wall, “STOP! I know you heard from a friend that heard from a friend, in Gods name just tell us! The short version!†Crockett spouted angrily. “Alright!†The blond let him slide down the wall, removing his hands, “Now that’s more like it. Now spill!†“Fuente took Tubbs, he has a partner dhat wants Tubbs and he wants him alive. I don’t know what for, though. He’s on da boat dhat Fuente keeps out of the US of A’s waters. Exsepts when he goes to New York. Tubbs been after him but dares a leak in his department.†“Very good, Izzy. Anything else you’d like to share with the class?†Crockett eyed him. “Fuente still ‘as it for jou, Sonny. Tubbs is also da trap. He wants da money, thinks after Cates was killed dhat you had at least half da money left and never gave to da departmental guys.†“Iz, remember what I said about adding mental onto a word, you’ll get sued,†Sonny shrugged, “even though some of the departments are mental but that’s between us,†Sonny walked over and gazed out the window, musing over what he had heard, “So, he wants me, for this money from seven years ago. Christ, if this guy ain’t persistent.†“He’s gonna get jou and then his money and then take jour life. Oh and I heard of this Chinese doctor, they use him to brain wash the people. He is going to wash Tubbs brain after he lets Tubbs see you get killed. That’s what I hear, anyway. Be careful, dis guy doesn’t have a full deck if ja know what I mean. And dhats all I know.†“Iz, I want you to listen real hard and if you hear anything, I don’t care how small you think it is, call me. That’s my partner he has, and I ain’t playin’ no games, ya hear?†“Yes, I’ll listen and call you. Still da same number?†Sonny became puzzled at the question. He hid the look and then turned to Stan. “I don’t have a phone at my desk yet, give him your number?†Stan Switek laughed at his friend, “You were given a cell phone weren’t you?†Sonny felt his pockets, found the cell phone and shrugged, “Never used one of these here things, don’t even know the number.†Stan laughed again, “Ok buckaroo, the number is on the back, and you memorize it and then take the label off. I’ll give you a crash course on how to use it and when we have the time I’ll teach you the harder things about it.†Stan watched Sonny turn the phone over. Crockett huffed as he wrote the number down on a piece of paper for Izzy. “Here, use it!†He growled.********************************************************** Sonny stomped out of the office and salon with Stan following him. Switek was still snickering and knew he’d have to get the laughter out of his system before Sonny decked him. Plus, he had to quickly show Sonny how to answer, hang-up, get messages and make a phone book, with the cell phone. He wasn’t worried, Sonny was a quick study. He didn’t think Sonny would have a problem with what he needed to teach. They got back in the car and Stan quickly showed Sonny how to use the phone. “This is just a smaller version of the car phones we used to have. Well, maybe different, but not to far off, thanks Stan.†“Not a problem and we’re done with the teaching and getting the information in enough time to grab a bite before heading back to the station.†Stan eyed Sonny. “Ok big guy, but drive through, I want to get back to Castillo and get things started with this new info we got.†Crockett’s eyes hid behind his sunglasses and stayed firmly on the road as he spoke. “Loved the idea you came up with to drag the info out of Izzy. I personally would have loved to strangle the little rat.†“That does work sometimes with him but I thought that going down the bogus violations would do it, though I know there are illegals in that place.†“No doubt about that one, Sonny. Stop over at the Burger King.†Stan pointed down the highway. Sonny looked disgusted over at his friend, “Are you kidding? Man, you’re gonna kill your self always eating that crap.†“Come on, Sonny.†Stan begged, “I can taste it.†“I can hear your heart pumping slower from it.†“Sonny, just go through the drive through.†Stan pleaded, again. “Alright, alright, anything to stop you from begging but don’t blame me if you have a heart attack.†Sonny drove through the Burger King for Stan and then stopped to get himself something to eat on the way back to OCB. He knew they wouldn’t have time to eat until much later and was anxious to start forming a plan in order to get Rico back. Every minute counted and he didn’t want to waste any of them. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART EIGHT The squad was assembled in the conference room. They all sat in wait, talking. Sonny didn’t speak to anyone, his mind on Tubbs and what Izzy had told them. He threw half of his sandwich in the trash can. The blond’s stomach was doing flips from the thoughts and feelings that were battling inside him. Brain washing Tubbs? Why? He mused. He squelched the worry and nervousness over his partner so he could think clearer and no one would see the dread he held. He’d let the bastard catch him in order to get Tubbs freed. He didn’t want to die, but he would if need be, to get his friend out safely. Crockett knew deep down that the squad would get them both out as a plan formed in his head. The detective’s plan came together a few minutes before the strategy meeting. The room quieted down when Castillo came in with his files. The serious dark eyes stared at the group in front of him. He hoped they had found out something they could use. Time was of the essence and though he didn’t show it, he hoped they could retrieve Ricardo in time. “Report.†He stated, looking at his files and then looked up, opening up the room for discussion. Trudy raised her head; eyes’ meeting the lieutenant’s first and while she spoke, scanned the room, “The street is quiet, no ones talking.†She said frustrated and trying to keep the fear out of her voice. She had always admired her friend, Ricardo Tubbs, and was scared that they wouldn’t find out what they needed in time. Gina spoke up next. Her voice was business, but the undercurrent carried a concerned note, “Like Trudy said everyone we spoke to had tight lips. Although, we did find one informant that would only tell us it was Mario Fuente that took Rico.†“Anyone else find anything other than that Fuente is behind this?†Trudy spoke up again, “Fernando Alterez has a long history of felony charges. He’s also worked for some other outfits as a body guard. Had him in for questioning six years ago, we couldn’t hold him. Looks like he’s been with Fuente for a while. The charges stopped several years back. “We have Fuente as the grabber and Fernando working for him. Anything else?†Martin inquired. All shook their heads in unison. Switek looked at a pacing Crockett. He saw the light go on in the man’s eyes. Crockett shook his index finger in mid pace. “Stan and me went to see our favorite weasel, Izzy. After a bit of convincing, he sang like a canary. Seems that Fuente does have Rico, but that’s not all. He has a silent partner, and there’s a leek in New York Vice, that’s why they could never get Fuente.†Crockett stopped when Martin interjected. “I’ll call his lieutenant and find out about the leek and anything else we need to know.†Crockett nodded in agreement with Castillo, “However, that’s not all. Seems that they have hired a Chinese doctor to brain wash Tubbs, my guess is so he will be an easier leak since he’s been heading the investigations into Fuente’s parties in New York.Izzy said that this man’s been used before for this sort of thing.†“Yes, Doctor Lee. I know what he can do. You may be right about keeping Tubbs alive so he can be a better leak in New York.†Castillo answered in thought. “Also, seems Mario is still hot for me. Still thinks I took what was left of the money Cates stole and that I didn’t hand it in to the department. He wants to get me, get his money and kill me. Izzy said that before Tubbs is fully brain washed Fuente has the sick joke of letting Tubbs watch me die.†Crockett spit out before stopping, seeing all eyes on him. “Any plans on how to get to Tubbs?†Castillo asked Crockett, glad that the detective was fully acting as he always had. He knew by Sonny’s look that a plan had been formed. “Fuente never comes into US waters, only to get to New York and we never know when that will be.†Stan added. Only the older crew knew how Fuente worked so the younger officers just listened and absorbed the information. Crockett again, started to pace, his hands were balled into fist in his pants pockets, his mouth opened and all eyes were on him. “I have a plan. I think word should be put out on the street right away that his yacht was bugged by the New York police when he was last up there. Lets say they couldn’t get him during the transfer but found his yacht and quickly bugged it to see if they could learn anything before he was out of range,†He looked over to Marty, “when was he last up there?†Marty glanced at his files, “Five weeks ago. The leek worked, he got away.†“Alright, so we let word get out onto the street about the bugs and Fuente’s people will get this back to him. He’ll be paranoid and bring in a sweeper thinking that New York contacted us. Also, when New York is told about this we make it so that only the lieutenant knew because of the leek. Kept secret from people on a need to know basis, that will cover why the leek didn’t know,†A smile formed on Sonny’s face, “we bring in Steve Duddy.†“Miami Steve?†Switek asked in surprise, “after what he did to us last time, how can we trust him?†Crockett turned his scheming smile to Switek, “He was guilty over what he did and what you and I did to him, Stan. I’ve spoken to him a few times over the years and I’ll bet he’s ready to make nice with us. I’ll go over there and let him see the light. He’ll be called into sweep, since he’s still the best, we give him department issued bugs, and he puts his high tech bugs in place. He shows Fuente the police bugs that he’s found. Now, Fuente feels safe, we have high tech bugs in place and we’ll arrange for a fishing boat to be to far out for him to worry about. With Duddy’s bugs we’ll be able to monitor what’s going on from a further distance. Put some officers on the boat that knows something about commercial fishing to make it look good. Bring in some Scarabs so we can raid him, but hide them on the other side of the boat. Duddy will be on the fishing boat with several of our people.†“But he’s still not in US waters.†Gina stated. Sonny turned in thought. A grin rose to his face, “You’re right, darlin’. But he is very close to the line between US and International waters.†“You need a warrant in US waters to put these bugs in place.†Castillo reminded his detective. “He does come in a bit closer when need be. Maybe he’d come in closer so he could get to Duddy?†Sonny turned a questioning look to the lieutenant, “Can we get a warrant even if he’s only in US waters for an hour or more?†“Last time Fuente did move into US waters when you and Tubbs went out to his yacht. I guess he figured he’d make the ride closer for you?†Stan laughed and then remembered how they were all shocked to see that Fuente’s yacht had moved into US waters when Crockett and Tubbs went to see the drug dealer. They were even more surprised when Crockett’s cover was blown. Martin listened to his two detectives and also remembered that the yacht had moved a mile into US waters. He stapled his fingers and looked up with hooded eyes, “Yes, as long as the bugs are put in while Fuente is in US waters. When in place they stay, whether he is in US or International waters. We can get a warrant.†Crockett turned, his hands pulling at the pockets in his pants, tightening them around his bottom. He nodded in acknowledgement to his lieutenant. “Let’s hope our friend goes for the bait and pulls in the line. The slightest bit over that line will give us the upper hand.†“What if he goes back to International waters? I mean the dudes not stupid and knows he can’t stay out in the open for long or we can nail him.†Hardin scratched his chin and then waved his arms around as he spoke. “No Joey, he ain’t a stupid dude. And you’re right, he will go back to International waters after Duddy leaves or his people come back, but that’s the beauty of it.†Crockett gave an evil smile to his protégée, “Once bugged in the US, like Marty said it doesn’t matter what waters he’s in and we can just listen. We call in a diving crew and when the time is right, we let them do their thing. They can get the anchor half way up and attached to a tug, bring the yacht slowly over the line and then move the fishing boat so that it looks like he’s in the same place. Late at night and moving slowly, they won’t feel a thing. Even with thugs around, in the dark, all in black, they can do it. They know their stuff.†Castillo thought about the plan that Crockett had laid down. “I’ll set it up with New York so the leek won’t get suspicious. I’ll also call Judge Carson for the warrant. We’ll tighten this plan up and go with it. Crockett, are you sure that Duddy will work with us?†Sonny nodded at his boss, “After I’m done with him we’ll even get his high tech bugs and his time for free. Plus, I think he may have some equipment to jam their coordinates so the settings on their controls say they’re still in the same spot.†Sonny gave a lopsided knowing grin. “And you? You said that Moreno told you Fuente is after you.†Castillo inquired. “Yeah Sonny, he could kill you.†Gina queried. “Don’t worry, sweetheart. Ya all have to get the word out on the street, right away. Duddy will let us know when he’s going to do the sweep and then when he’s done. After we’re set up, which will be soon, we’ll know what’s going on and the boat will be monitored. I’ll play a game of chess with them. I won’t make it look easy but I’ll allow them to put me into check mate. I’ll let the bozo’s make the grab. I have to, for the plan to work. Remember, he is mainly after me. I know you’ll get us out safely.†The blond made his voice a bit playful and confident, in order to calm Gina and anyone else down. His adrenalin was pumping, letting it over ride any concerns, like he always did. He was ready and focused on the task at hand. “Crockett, you get on Duddy. Switek, you and Sammy set up the boats, divers and whatever else we need. The rest of you, get the word out on the street, quickly. I’ll call New York and get the warrant. Tanya and Julie, when this goes down you’ll be at Metro monitoring between the boat, us and Crockett. Let’s do this.†Castillo stood, collected his files and left. Crockett raced out the door. The rest took a moment for it all to sink in before setting the plan into motion. ********************************************************** Crockett pulled his car into Steve Duddy’s long driveway. He scanned for the cameras he knew were there. The cameras were well hidden. Duddy was a strange and paranoid guy caught up in a paranoid business. He shrugged at the thought. The blond knew he wouldn’t see them, and then stifled a yawn before leaving his car. The detective found his way up the stairs to the small wooden porch that enclosed the entrance way. He leaned his shoulder against the wall and crossed his legs before ringing the buzzer. Knowing he was being watched, Crockett gave a smile up at the hidden camera that he knew was there. He waved at it while waiting for Steve to answer. The door opened to a man about Sonny’s height, thin, short cropped hair and a toothy grin. Sonny stood up after a moment and gave back a tight lipped smile. “Hey there, Steve.†He greeted and entered before being invited. “Been a while there, Sonny. Hey, wait, why don’t you come in.†Steve gestured with a wave of his hand that followed Sonny, who was already in and had turned to face the joking man, “so what do I owe this honor to?†“Ah, just chalk it up to I had this crazy need to talk with ya.†Crockett met Duddy with the retort. Steve closed the door and followed Crockett to the kitchen. “You missed me?†“I wouldn’t go that far. After all you don’t have anything in the common sense department. Remember, you said your brother had that.†Crockett shook his index finger and tilted his head showing a lopsided grin. He knew the man was smart, he could run circles around any surveillance person he knew. But even Steve had told him and Rico during the Dykstra case that his brother had the common sense of the family. “I remember telling you and your partner that one. But I’ve told you I’ve gotten better with that.†Steve offered a drink, holding up a cartoon of Orange Juice, Sonny nodded. Duddy got down two glasses and while pouring the drinks asked the question that was on his mind since he had watched Sonny pull up from his surveillance room. “I know we’ve talked, but you were down in the Keys. Whatcha doing up here?†“I got the old job back. I’m a detective again and in line to become the lieutenant of the Metro-Dade special Vice unit.†Sonny answered before sipping some of the juice he loved so much. “Really, never thought you’d take it, guess congratulations are in order.†Steve took some of his drink and then sat across from Sonny at the breakfast nook, “So you didn’t just stop by to say hello.†The detective locked eyes with the sweeper. “Thanks. And no, you’re right, I didn’t just stop by. Was thinking about some of the things we talked about over the years, ya remember, the Dykstra case?†Sonny finished his juice. “I thought we had that all straightened out?†Duddy asked a bit puzzled. Crockett swallowed hard. He replaced the fear that danced in his head about Rico with bravado. “Well you see Dud-dy, there’s a bit of a problem that needs your assistance. You remember my partner Rico, oh wait you already said you did,†Sonny bore into Steve for a moment before going on, “He’s up and gone missin’, been grabbed by a man called Mario Fuente. Figured after your confessional talks with me you’d want to help us out. Ya know, make up for the Dykstra mess and all,†Sonny got up and patted Steve’s cheek, “knew you’d want to play it right. Do your magic in helping to find my partner.†“Sonnnnyyyy, I’ll do what I can. I have some real new stuff I’d love to test out. I’ll drop the fee down some for you and the squad. I’ll do right with this, my priest.†Steve laughed and his toothy smile broadened. Crockett pivoted to face Duddy and shook his head, “Hell, I ain’t your damn priest. But I do think you’ll drop the fees altogether, for everything. Call it pro-bono if you want. Or here’s a new concept, doing it to help a friend.†The detective knew the firm voice and wise ass smile he was giving let Steve know how serious he was. “Sonny, this stuff is real expensive.†Steve whined. Sonny’s bottom lip curled in thoughtfulness, “Nothing like giving the best to friends, eh, Ste-vie.†Now Crockett’s brow rose. “I can’t do it for free.†Steve complained. Sonny pushed his body forward, leaning into the man’s personal space. Intimidation was one of Crockett’s specialties and he used it as he met the thin man, face to face, “Steve, don’t make me have to clear my desk and make you my number one case. ‘Cause ya know I’ll do it. You even walk the wrong way and you’ll be mine, pal.†Crockett growled while he jammed a finger into the sweeper’s chest. Steve coward to Sonny’s abrasiveness, “Ok, I’ll do it.†“That’s a good boy.†Sonny smiled as he tapped the other man’s cheek, “Now, I want the best you got, longest range and all that new high tech. stuff you were talking ‘bout before. And you won’t be runnin’ any games, not one.†Sonny raised his index finger in warning. Steve nodded, “No, all on the up and up, I swear.†Steve gave a Boy Scout salute that had Crockett laughing. “Don’t tell me you were a Boy Scout, ‘cause it ain’t washing.†Crockett stared at Duddy, dubiously. “No I wasn’t but thought the salute might help you see I’m telling you the truth.†“You better be.†Crockett’s answered adamantly. He took in a deep breath before calming down. The detective sat on the stool, elbows on the nook to support his weight. “Alright, let me run down what’s happening and what we need you to do.†Sonny explained everything to Steve. He watched the sweeper making notes on a pad as he listened and asked a few questions. Steve halted the conversation when he learned that Crockett was a mark. “I have a very small micro chip that acts like a homing device or tracking device which ever you want to call it. Its long range and I’ll know where you are every minute as long as you’re wearing it. This thing is so small it’s like smaller than a piece of lint, they’ll never see it. I suggest you wear it inside your waist band. You know, incase they rip your shirt or something. This is safe and I think a good idea.†Sonny mulled it over, “Yeah, good idea. I’ll take one of ‘em too.†He gave the other man a wry smile. “So where are these antiquated department bugs? Gonna need them if Fuente calls me tomorrow, probably will, they’re all paranoid.†“Sounds familiar,†Sonny reminded the man who was so paranoid he had his place under more surveillance than a bank, “Here they are. Remember, give them to Fuente and when planting your own bugs see if you can tell where they’re keeping Tubbs. You may have to sweep that room. If you do, I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT IT, PAL!†Crockett stated adamantly. “You know I’ll let you know, Sonny. Now who’s being paranoid?†“Can’t blame me after Dykstra. Oh and I need something that will keep their coordinates set on the controls to make it look like they’re still in the same spot. Somethin’ you can turn on when we move the boat.†“You win as usual, Crockett,†He turned a huge case around while opening it, “Now look at these babies and let me tell you what they can do. And I do have something that can jam the coordinates on the control panel. †He winked and went off to get it. He brought it back to show Crockett. Crockett looked over all the toys that Duddy was going to use on Fuente’s boat. He asked questions to understand how things worked and went over the plan one more time. Steve was to call when he knew the day and time of the sweeping, which they hoped would be the next day. He’d then call when he got back. He’d take his car to a halfway point incase Fuente’s men where watching, then Sonny would pick him up and take him to OCB. He also told Duddy that if Fuente changed the transportation plan to let him know. At OBC he’d let them know what happened and go to the fishing boat with Stan and Sammy. His equipment would already be on board the boat, waiting his arrival to finish the connections that Stan couldn’t do to activate the bugs. Also he’d activate the tracking device on Sonny and monitor everything from the boat. When Steve needed to, he’d activate the jamming system for the control panel. With that done, Sonny and Steve took the equipment to his car. It would be brought out to the boat, tonight. They shook hands and Crockett slid into the driver’s seat. He drove to OCB and told the unit about what happened with Steve and then helped Stan put the equipment into his van. Sonny left the OCB parking lot. He had more hope now, but as always his thoughts haunted him about Tubbs. Sonny’d do anything for anyone in the squad. But he’d do even more for Rico, anything at all. He had never felt so close to another human being as he did with Rico. Even after all this time he still felt loss when Rico Tubbs wasn’t around. Then again, Rico had always said that they were Ying and Yang, whatever that meant, Sonny could only figure. He glided his car into the marina parking lot and then got out hoping he wouldn’t have to spend another night with hardly any sleep. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART NINE Sonny pulled the car into his new spot at the marina. He sat there for a moment looking at the lights from the city hitting the water, the boats bobbing up and down from the wake of other’s motoring by. Everything was quiet, not like the weekends when parties would be thrown. Giving a heavy sigh, the detective got out of the car knowing he’d be going back to an empty boat where his partner once was. Standing there, he thought again, why the hell did he have to bring Tubbs back to Miami?He knew why and they never thought there’d be trouble. Turning his head, the ice machine caught his eyes. Yellow pieces of crime tape that still hung, moving in the breeze. His eyes turned away quickly, feelings of guilt threatened to drown him. Again he berated himself for not listening to his gut feeling about those crashers. Crockett pushed his tired body away from the car and stepped onto the dock. He had to stop the guilt and blame, Rico always told him that. He then spotted the St. Vitus where it sat locked up with no lights on. Hardin was either out on a date or still working, he figured it was the latter. Stepping onto the deck, his hands ran over parts of the sail boat. Every piece of her, familiar, brought back memories in full force. The first time he had handed the New Yorker a fishing rod and explained it was for sanity maintenance. That first meeting the morning after he found out Rico was a cop. That was right on this very deck. The Southerner had been surprised by the New Yorker and bumped his head and then a few sarcastic words had been exchanged before Sonny punched the New Yorker, apologizing, only to get punched right back. He smiled at the thought of Tubbs explanation, about the bad karma. Other images swam to the surface, talks they had throughout the years over beers, JD, or Rico’s famous virgin fruity drinks and sometimes, cognac. The pain was too much. His head throbbed in agony as well as his body, from emotion overload. Crockett started to climb off the boat, looked back at the fading memories and then left for his yacht. Approaching the Sanity Maintenance he saw a silhouette, back towards him, on the deck. The detective crouched behind a locked storage box, unsnapped his holster and drew his gun. He checked to make sure a bullet was chambered in the Smith and Wesson before maneuvering quietly to the boat. He adeptly got onto the deck without moving the boat or making a sound. Arms raised, gun pointed at his target, he knew he couldn’t identify himself as a cop. Adrenalin pumping through the tan body took him to automatic pilot as he spoke. “Drop any weapons on the deck and put your hands up.†Came out quiet, but harsh. The hands rose and interlocked behind the silhouette’s head. “Turn around slowly.†The order was given. The body turned around as told, allowing the soft light to shine and let the cop see who was on his boat. Sonny gave a puzzled look. Wait a minute, I know this person, entered his thoughts. “Parish?†Julie stood, long blond hair draped over her shoulders, hands still raised and intertwined behind her head, a slow smile crossed her face, “Yes, Crockett.†Sonny’s face was filled with bewilderment, his gun still locked in position.“Wh…..what the hell?†“I guess I should have called. I’m sorry, I thought you could use the company,†Julie nodded at Crockett’s trained hand and the gun still frozen in front of her, “You think you could put that thing away?†Sonny gazed downward at the deadly shiny metal in his hand. Red seeped up into his face and he was glad the light wasn’t bright enough for the other cop to see. “Oh, right, sorry.†Sonny embarrassingly apologized while he put the safety on and then placed the gun back in its holster, snapping it shut. Julie lowered her arms, watching the handsome man put his gun away. She noticed his mind was slowly taking everything in before he raised his head. Crockett’s heart still hammered as the adrenalin started to ease. His body started to lose tension from the stance he had taken. He was still bewildered by her presence. “You thought I could use the company?†“Listen, I don’t usually just invite myself. I just thought with Rico being kidnapped and you being hunted by Fuente. Well, I hope I didn’t come to the wrong conclusion. I mean we had a date that couldn’t be kept, which is understandable.†She walked over to the blond, watching him digest what she was telling him, “I thought with how people say you tend to blame your self for things like this that you might wanna talk about what’s going down. I hope I wasn’t wrong.†She took his hands in hers. Sonny swallowed hard, was he that transparent? Did the squad send her because of what she had just said? He couldn’t argue the blame part, but he’d be damned if he’d let her see the fear he held for Tubbs. He felt her warm soft hands around his and realized he did want her there, didn’t want to be alone and how her touch felt. “No, you weren’t wrong. I’d say it’s perfect timing, although you should have called I could have shot you.†“No, you wouldn’t, unless I shot first, that I know. I‘m glad you’re not mad that I’m here. I felt I needed to be and was hoping you wouldn’t mind the company. I’m not usually like this like I said, but I feel drawn to you. I can’t explain it.†She admitted. “Can’t explain it, huh? Hell, I can’t explain why I’m drawn to you either. Christ, I’m seventeen years older than you.†He released her hands and walked over to the railing. Leaning against it he knew she wasn’t far behind him. He did want her here, even with the age difference. Julie put her hand on his shoulder, felt him leaning his weight on the railing and felt the tension in his muscles. She knew it was from worry about Rico, the adrenalin from not knowing who was on his boat and what they had both just admitted. She brought herself behind him and started to massage the tension out of the knotted muscles.“Age doesn’t matter to me, Sonny. I know all about you from your friends and talk I’ve heard. I know that stories can be exaggerated and I want to know the real James “Sonny†Crockett. But I have a good start from seeing how people love you and how you care about them.†She kneaded her hands into his shoulders, back and around his neck, feeling the knots unwind and the body start to relax. He gave a slight moan at the release of coiled muscles under her hands. When Sonny didn’t say anything Julie figured she should tell him what she had found out about his history. Better to be honest, she thought.“Listen, I want to be honest here so I’m going to tell you what I know about James Sonny Crockett. You were born and raised in Miami. You know this place inside and out. Your birthday is July 29th and you went to Nam. You were given several commendations, went to Special Ops. After all that training you entered the academy. You have an older brother Jake, a fifteen year old son, Billy, an ex-wife named Caroline who is on her second marriage and has another son. You too were married again, to Caitlin Davies, who was pregnant when Hackman shot her. I’m sorry, so very sorry; you must have gone through hell. Well, I know you did from what I know of the Burnett episode. I could go on, but….†She said the last few statements quietly and sincerely, “I guess you probably think I’m crazy. Like I said, I heard from the squad about a few things and checked out the stories. I’m sorry if I over stepped.†She stopped massaging and turned to lean her back against the railing, staring at the blond who stared into the water, saying nothing as she had spoken. Julie didn’t know what to expect from Sonny. She waited in nervous anticipation. Damn, she knows a lot about me, can’t blame her for checking me out after the stories, he thought. He tried to squelch the anger about her knowing so much. Being in the unit, she would know about his career in Vice, that part of his life was an open book. He wasn’t happy about her checking up on him. While she spoke, he had to again, let go of the emotions over Caitie and the baby, about Hackman and becoming Burnett. That was over; he had dealt with it, thanks to Dr. Phillips and the four years of finding himself. Dr. Philips had told him that the hurt never completely went away; it was how you handled it that counts. They had spoke about it again, briefly when he met with her the month before as part of the physical. She had told the department he was mentally healthy, most of the times he agreed, yet sometimes he wondered. He turned his back and leaned against the railing, meeting her eyes. “Checking up on me, lady?†Though the anger was dissipating he had to ask. “Being a detective isn’t an excuse. I shouldn’t have done the back round checking, the stories I heard I can’t help. Again, I apologize.†Julie told him with remorse. Crockett could tell the apology was genuine and the fact that she wanted to be honest with him helped to rid the anger. He knew there was a time in his life when he wouldn’t have been able to get rid of the anger, but that was the old Crockett. Sonny was glad that he could see a difference in how he handled the situation with Julie. He wondered how he would handle his feelings for her and hers for him. The blond figured he’d take it a step at a time. He also didn’t like the vulnerability of not know anything about this girl. First he’d have to accept her apology and then he’d get a summary about Julie Parish’s life. Plus, this let his mind temporally think about something else besides Tubbs. He didn’t know for how long but he needed an emotional break. Crockett nodded at the blonde and then a tight lipped smile formed, “Apology accepted. Being in the unit I know there’s talk. But I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage. You certainly know a lot about me, but I don’t know anything about you.†“Sorry, there isn’t too much to tell but I’ll even up the score.†That got a smile out of Sonny. He watched her turn back around and stare at the water like he had just been doing. He turned to join her. “I was born to a wealthy family in Atlanta, Georgia. I was a debutant, supposed to marry into a well to do family with a good name. I’m an only child and daddy always spoiled me. He wasn’t happy when I went off to college. A young woman of quality only goes to college to find a worthy husband,†She laughed at the memory, “They paid and didn’t realize when I changed majors. They thought I’d quit at some point, but I didn’t want any of the old traditional ways and I wanted to help people, not be looked at as a spoiled rich girl. I don’t tell people about that part of my life. I just wanted to do things I’d never been allowed to do. So I finished top of my class and went to the academy. My parents couldn’t understand why I wanted to be a cop, they gave me an argument. First it was too dangerous for a girl, second, it was beneath me, and God forbid that one.†She chuckled before going on, “and then finally they argued that I was supposed to marry Jonathan Billingston, old money with a good name, you know.†The upper crust Southern drawl was exaggerated. Both laughed at that comment, knowing how the South could be, especially with old families, their women and money. “So what happened to this Jonathan Billingston?†Sonny chuckled. “He married my rival, Meredith Austings. Anyway, after the academy I was a rookie on the street beat. I moved to another town to get away from my family and all that knew me. I fell in love with someone I met in the academy who transferred with me. I fell for him deeply, for a year and then he dumped me. I then decided to concentrate on my career and have only dated a bit since then, nothing serious. After two years I moved to Jacksonville Florida and worked homicide. I’ve been up there until 5 weeks ago. I saw an opening with the Organize Crime Bureau, Vice unit and here I am.†She raised her hands, turning to her side. “Well, ain’t you the black sleep of the family. S’posen daddy still doesn’t take kindly to the job?†Sonny drawled with a smile. He turned to his side to face her, his eyes twinkling. “No, daddy never wants to hear about the job except when they try to get me to quit and marry.†She laughed. “Being the Southern bell you’d have to expect that now. But you did leave something out, Parish.†“I guess I do at that.†She raised her head in thought, “Wait. What did I leave out?†“Your birthday.†He smiled with a teasing wink. This had been the first time since Tubbs was kidnapped that Crockett had laughed or smiled. His concentration was on the blonde cop, yet in the back round he could feel the guilt over Tubbs ready to jump out of hiding. “May 14th. Now do I pass the test, Crockett?†“I think you do, darlin’.†He leaned over letting his lips graze hers before landing into a sweet kiss. Crockett’s body felt as if lightning had struck it with just that one kiss. He pulled away and saw the same expression on Parish’s face. He lifted his hand and caressed her cheek. The kiss was one he hadn’t felt in a long time and surprised him. Sonny hesitated on taking it any further. He knew any other time he could have and would have, only with Tubbs missing it just didn’t feel right to him. The detective stepped back. Without skipping a beat, he figured offering to get some drinks would cool the moment down, “Why don’t I get something for us to drink, wine, beer, juice?†“Wine would be nice. Um, can we have it on the flying bridge? I’d love to see the view of the city from up there.†The blonde’s head tilted, her long hair fanning in the breeze. “Sure, just go on up and I’ll meet ya with drinks.†He watched her start up the stairs and then climbed quickly down into the cabin for the wine. Down in the cabin Sonny searched for some glasses and saw some of Rico’s things. He stopped and picked up a shirt and smelled it. Why did I do that? He questioned himself. And why the fuck am I flirting with a woman while my partner is out there somewhere with Fuente? He furthered the punishment that had started up on the deck. “Damn it!†his fist painfully hit the counter in frustration. He waited for his hand to stop pounding before gathering up the wine and glasses. He couldn’t hide the pain, it was haunting him. Quickly, before he could think anymore, he made it up to the flying bridge and to Julie. **********************************************************The dark sky was illuminated by the lights from the main street, along with the neon signs from the cheap hotels and store fronts. The sounds wafted over the beach from the night people as they crawled around the city streets. Waves pounded down on the sand making more reverberation, drifting, all of it coming together to form the musical sound of Miami. Trudy Joplin dropped onto a bench facing the ocean. She slipped off her heals and rubbed her aching feet. She looked at her watch knowing she was a few minutes early. She and Gina had sent Tanya and Julie home two hours ago and had agreed to keep pushing the story to a few people they knew. They separated, picking a time and place to meet up. God she hoped Sonny’s plan would work. They’d been leaking the story to everyone and anyone they could think of in order to pull the beginning of this plan off. She knew even though Gina was engaged and loved Gordon that there was great worry not only for Rico but for the ex love, a person that still held a piece of Gina’s heart, Sonny. Trudy wondered if that piece would ever release Sonny from Gina’s heart. She loved her partner like a sister, they’d been paired up for years and she knew the history and was so happy when Gina had fallen head over heals for Gordon. She just hoped that Sonny’s coming back wouldn’t hurt the engagement, and that Gina wouldn’t falter to the blond that had brought so much pain. Gordon was perfect for her partner. She worried, given the circumstances that Fuente wanted Sonny dead, and that he was giving himself to this evil encased man. There was a chance Sonny could die. She knew he would if there was no other way to get Rico out safely and had seen it in his eyes at the meeting, she knew Gina had seen it too. Her eyes had seen the other detective flinch. The pretty detective sighed as a headache started to brew from all the worry. Trudy loved Sonny too, but as a mentor, friend and brother, although they had occasionally slept together to help heal pain that came with the job. A pain only another cop or someone around their profession would understand. They all looked up to him, trusted him. She too was worried about his possible demise. Again, she prayed for his and Rico’s safety and that Gina would feel the same way she did and not weaken to a love long gone. Sonny could never commit to Gina the way she needed, a way that Gordon could. He did however, commit in a different way to Tubbs. Sonny had a very special place in his heart for Gina, and for Rico. She knew this and also knew, though not as strong, the blond had a special place in his heart for all of them. Joplin rubbed her weary eyes, she was tired. At that moment her head rose seeing her partner walking gingerly on sore feet while caring the shoes that caused it. Gina sat down next to her partner, her face showing just as must stress and fatigue. The brunette dropped the shoes to the sand, her purse settled between Trudy and herself. “God, I lost count of how many people I casually let know about the bugs on Fuente’s yacht. I hope this works.†“Girlfriend, it better work, just keep positive thoughts.†“Now you sound like Rico. God I hope he’s alright.†“They said he wasn’t going to be harmed. I just hope the story gets back to Fuente, fast, so we can get in there and get them out. I guess now it’s up to Duddy and then Sonny.†The pretty black cop expressed with a sigh. “Miami Steve, you think he’ll come through for us? I mean, after double dealing the last time with Dykstra, I’m not very trusting.†Calabresse confided in her partner. “He better or he’ll have to answer to a lot of angry detectives and police officers.†Joplin answered with venomous tone. Gina had to laugh at the sound of her partner. She felt the same way. She hoped the operation would go as planned. She didn’t want to mention anymore of her fears that focused on Crockett. That small piece he still had of her heart added with the friendship that had grown had made her nausea all day. She just wanted this over with, knowing Sonny and Rico were safe. She wiped the sweat off her forehead. “I’m ready to get some sleep.†The black cop stated. “I hope I can get some sleep. This has me all worked up. It’s one thing when we do a bust, but another when it involves the lives of two of our friends.†Gina added, dropping the rest of her thoughts. She knew after working so long with her partner that she didn’t have to say anything else, her friend already knew. Gina had spilled her heart out for years to her partner about the handsome blond detective. Then she met a man that treated her the way she had always wanted, Trudy led the cheer leading, pushing the brunette to continue to date the D.A. named Gordon. She sighed softly. Yes, she did love the lawyer and they would get married and have a wonderful life. The pretty Cuban woman just wanted to love Sonny as a friend, and thought she did until it looked like this might be a suicide mission. All Sonny thought about was getting Rico out safely. Sure he’d fight like hell to get out with him, but if need be he’d die in order to save his partner. She felt that sick feeling again and wondered if Sonny was being selfish or selfless in his plan to save Rico. She also knew there had been bad blood between Fuente and Crockett for the past seven years, all due to three million dollars that he thought Crockett had stolen. It had actually been Cates, from DEA, who stole it and framed Sonny. She thought after all this time that Mario Fuente would realize all his money had gone overboard in the fight between Crockett and Cates. Cates was dead, the money at the bottom of the ocean, how could he still think Crockett had some of it and why did he take Rico? A better leak in New York they had thought when hearing about Doctor Lee. It was eerie to think about what this monster could do to Rico. Her mind was tired of thinking about the whole mess. The detective came out of her reverie when she heard the other cop answer what she had previously said. “I know what you mean about it not being a routine bust. My head is pounding from thinking about Rico and Sonny all day and what could happen. I don’t know if I’ll sleep to well either. C’mon girl, I’ll give you a ride. You can stay with me if you want and we could have some tea and talk.†Trudy offered. “No, I’ll be alright. I just wanna get into the shower and call Gordon. Hopefully then I’ll be able to sleep.†The Cuban woman collected her purse and shoes before standing up. “Ok, if you’re sure. But you better call Gordon.†Trudy said in a friendly warning, “I think that will make you feel better. C’mon.†The two women smiled at one another and then proceeded to walk to Trudy’s car. They got into the car, both in their own silent thoughts as they drove off. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. CHAPTER TEN Sonny poured the red liquid into the two glasses making them turn color. He put the bottle down before handing the glass over to Julie. Both stood on the bridge, Sonny leaning against the center of the console and Julie leaning against the corner so she could see the water and city while they drank their wine. The female cop was relaxed, enjoying the sights. She especially was enjoying the view of the handsome man that was only a few feet away from her. So what if he was seventeen years older than she, what was in age anyway? She pushed the thought out of her mind. She was here to help Crockett with the pain of Rico’s kidnapping. She suddenly realized he was quiet, pensive, as they drank and took in the view. He seemed far away, probably thinking about a partner he didn’t know the fate of. She berated her self, thinking that this was the reason she had come by in the first place. Crockett suddenly felt nervous around this young beautiful woman. He’d never been shy with the ladies and certainly never nervous. Well, maybe the first few times after Caitie had died. That was the only time he could remember feeling this way, like he did as a young child with his first crush. He often acted on impulse and he had earlier with Julie, he cursed that impulsiveness now. What business did he have anyway thinking about this woman with what was going on with Rico? His thoughts turned to Rico. His nerves were raw as he thought about his partner and distantly, how to nicely have this woman go without closing the door on a possible future. Thoughts swirled around, changing to images of Rico being hurt, caged like a prisoner of war. He remembered Nam and the prisoners of war, was that Rico? Anger rose at the thought of Fuente and his people touching or hurting his partner in anyway. Just like the VC had hurt people he knew, like Scotty Shephard before he was killed. He didn’t realize he visibly shivered at the thought. Flash backs flew through his mind like a slide show. Every face from the atrocities of the dying and tortured souls in Nam was Rico’s. All Crockett’s surroundings left him. The darkness taking him to the past and away from the nervousness and thoughts of Julie, he didn’t even see her anymore, just Rico and his past. Only nausea and dread filled his gut, sweat ran like rain, down his face. Julie noticed Sonny shiver, though it wasn’t cold and she saw the pool of sweat trickling down his face. The girl put down her drink, took a few steps towards him. She stood still for a moment seeing something in his eyes, a far away look, with a stare that saw nothing around him. Where was he? Was he thinking of Rico as she had thought before? Slowly she raised her hand, touching his arm, to comfort him. Instead, they both jumped when he was startled by her touch. His wine glass dropped and brought him suddenly back to the present. His face took on bewilderment; a pallor color took over his tan. Green eyes tried to focus. He realized he couldn’t move, couldn’t even wipe the sweat that profusely ran down his face. All he could do was watch as the blonde woman picked up the glass that he figured he had dropped. What the hell had just happened? He could remember the flashes but didn’t understand why they’d come about. The flashes from Nam hadn’t happened since he’d seen Ira Stone and that was many years ago. Ira, the crazy reporter and weasel of a friend had chased greed over a story from that insidious war in Vietnam. The story of what Captain real estate, other wise known as Maynard, had done with the heroin, hidden in dead soldiers to smuggle it back into the USA. Ira had found out, shown Sonny and died because of it and the American dream, greed. Of course during his bout with Burnett and the amnesia he had had flashes, but those were different and through the shrinks, he had found out why. Was this episode also caused by heavy stress? He didn’t know, just stood there and grasped at whatever he could to pull himself together. Julie went down the stairs to dispose of the glass. She came back up with two towels and used the first one to wipe up the wine. Placing the towel down she went to stand in front of Sonny, the pale face that was there before had recovered to its natural tan. She gave him the other towel to wipe off the heavy sweat. Her blue sapphire eyes met remorseful jade green ones. Instinctively her hands rubbed both his arms. She heard a heavy sigh and watched his adams apple bob in a hard swallow while he pulled back his one arm and used the towel to clean his face. She stood and waited for him to let the towel drop. Never leaving the lock of his eyes her arms wrapped the vulnerable man in a reassuring hug, his arms attached to her body, afraid for the moment to let go. Sonny held onto Julie, disgusted with himself, yet needing to hold on to something in order to hold on to sanity. At one time he had been afraid he was going insane, he didn’t want that fear to come back. Just the taste of that fear in the past fifteen minutes or so scared the hell out of him, but that wasn’t the only thing that scared him. Jesus, how could he be so vulnerable in front of this woman, a woman who he hardly knew? This woman only knew of his strong side, the bravado side. That was the side of Sonny Crockett he allowed people to see. Very few people ever saw this privy side of him, only people like Rico, Caitlin, and Caroline. Yet he needed the hug, that warm body to remind himself of his sanity. Quickly, he collected his thoughts and started to reclaim the strength needed. Crockett’s eyes blinked, an apologetic look formed in them and over his face, “I’m sorry, didn’t mean to zone out like that.†A smile crossed his face and then he released her. “Thanks for cleaning up and for the hug, guess I needed that.†The green eyes shifted away. He felt embarrassed but didn’t show it. He fell into the chair, not only to get away from Julie but also to hide the shakiness of his legs. “Sonny, what was that? It was like you were somewhere else, a million miles away.†Julie asked from a distance, afraid to invade his personal space. “Christ.†He ran a hand through his sweat soaked hair, “That hasn’t happened in a long time,†he gave a tired sigh while trying to do what he was good at, pushing his feeling down. He knew Dr. Phillips wouldn’t approve. She had told him he shouldn’t push his feelings aside, he should open up and look at them. But then, that wasn’t Sonny. Sure, he’d gotten better with opening up, a lot better, as far as he was concerned, only right now he just couldn’t keep his vulnerable side out in the open and do an effective job. Sonny thought about the answer he should give Julie and the answer he would give her. He had to be vague, “I wasn’t a million miles away………just in the jungle.†The last part was spoken very soft. The images still fresh in his mind. “I don’t understand. Jungle? Is this about Rico?†Julie inquired, thinking Jungle meant the mess that was happening with Rico. She didn’t realize that what she thought was partly true and certainly didn’t know about the flashbacks to Nam that Sonny had had. Sonny waved his hands around, not knowing how to answer the question about the jungle. His hands slapped down on his lap in defeat. Vague, Crockett, you have to stay away from the jungle, what really went through your mind, “A …. Yeah, Rico.†Sonny muttered, keeping things on only the present with Rico. He drew in a breath of humid air. The Jungle air, it felt like the air in Nam, he thought. To appear normal he had to push the feelings down deeper, a task he was used to. “Then tell me about your partnership, it might make you feel better,†Julie encouraged, “I’ve heard of some partnerships being like a marriage, is that how it is with Tubbs?†“Something like that. Some have said we were joined at the hip, or talking to one of us was like talking to both of us, still is. A marriage? I reckon a lot of partners are like that and if so, he’s the nag,†Crockett gave a fond smile, “but also the optimist and anchor, though at times I anchored him,†Sonny shared thoughtfully, “just with brief eye contact we’d know what the other was thinkin’, saved our butts many a time. I missed him these past four years. Coming back to Florida, to Miami and then transferring back down here to Vice,†He sighed softly running his hand over his face, “then I returned, I was glad we’d be partners again and then this happened,†Sonny outstretched his arms, resting his palms back on his lap, “Who would’ve thought? Just goes to show you the current can change on a dime.†Julie thought about what the detective had just said, saw what he must be going through. They had depended on each other for so long, a friendship growing from being partners and a hope to have it all again. Was that what happened when Crockett had zoned out? Like he said, the current can change on a dime, meaning that life can change so quickly, positive situations turning into negative ones, like his marriage with Caitlin Davies. The blonde felt her heart breaking for both men and especially for Sonny. So much hurt and the pain he must have gone through over the years, Caitlin’s dead and other things hadn’t turned back to the positive. The current had changed like a dime, many times in this mans life. She only hoped the current would turn positive in the end, this time. She knew Crockett hadn’t realized he’d given so much away, which Parish had figured out to be the reasons for the ever changing moods she had heard about from the other officers who knew Crockett well. Crockett’s thoughts skipped back to Rico being held by Fuente. Calm and normal slipped away, again, to exploding anger at the thoughts. Suddenly he shot up from the seat and banged the same hand he hurt before on the console. “Damn Fuente! He’s in a world of hurt if he touches Rico!†Sonny raged and then held his hand. It hurt worse than when he had banged it in the cabin and hoped the swollen hand wasn’t hurt to badly. He clamped down on the anger and concentrated on his hand. He cursed himself as he moved his fingers gingerly. He felt relieved that it wasn’t broken, just bruised from his stupidity, but hitting something did help release the fury. Julie had heard of the many moods of Sonny Crockett and the rages that he would have. The detectives that had been there longer had told her of how Crockett would be the only one of them brazen enough to dare yell at the lieutenant and survive. And how he’d often come out of that office and kick a trash can across the squad room. Now she believed them. Parish also had seen the caring part of this man, as well as the vulnerable side the other detectives knew Sonny tried to hide. Crockett realized Parish was still aboard. How could he be so stupid? He’d let her see so many sides that he’d rather her not have seen. He knew more than before, that he had to say something and gently escort her off the boat. He didn’t want her afraid of him like she originally had been. Great Crockett, probably too late for that one, he pondered. Green eyes met blue ones when he stepped closer. “Listen, this whole thing with Tubbs has to have my full attention. I’m not proud of what you saw, but I’m tired and the ole brain is in a jumble. I promise I’m not always like this, really,†He tried to reassure the lady in front of him, “I appreciate you thinking of me and stopping by, guess the timing wasn’t so good after all, but the thought was.†Sonny tried to lighten things up with a little charm and a caring smile, “My actions have nothing to do with you.†He pressed the palm of his good hand against her cheek. When she accepted the caress and leaned into it, he knew she had forgiven him. “It’s alright. It was brazen of me to come out here not invited.†Julie smiled back at Sonny. Her hand caught his when it left her cheek. “I’d like a rain check, after Rico comes back?†His voice was tender, soothing and it was plain to see he really did want a chance to get to know Julie without the tensions of losing Rico. “Sounds good.†Julie climbed down the ladder and waited for Sonny to join her on the main deck. She did want to get to know Sonny Crockett as a man, not a cop and not as the boss he would soon be to her. But she knew that what she’d seen was a haunted man filled with guilt she didn’t understand, over the kidnapping of his partner, friend and brother. She had heard of the detective taking on guilt that didn’t belong to him. But what she had read about the Fuente case from several years back, she understood why he would take that guilt on. He spoke as he put his arm around her waist, guiding her across the deck and then helping her onto the dock “Like I told Tubbs, I’m not a box of candy, but I promise we’ll go out. I just can’t think of anything right now, only getting Rico back. I hope you can understand that.†He wanted her to understand and give him another chance after all this was over, but he wasn’t sure she would. Crockett only knew he needed her to leave. Julie nodded while she listened. Sure she could understand and wished once again she hadn’t imposed on this man. “I understand and I look forward to the rain check.†Sonny’s brow rose, “You weren’t brazen, well maybe, to come into the lion’s den the way you did,†He chuckled half heartedly, “I ain’t like this all the time, not even a lot of the time, I swear. Thanks for stopping by and I’ll see you at the station tomorrow, ok?†He’d hoped that the situation had been salvaged as he looked up at the young woman. “Yeah, I’ll see you in the morning and I hope with this rain check I see some of that Southern gentleman charm.†“Oh that I have plenty of, I AM, a Southern gentleman,†A reassuring smile covered his face. “I’m holding you to that, Crockett.†Julie tossed over her shoulder along with her long silky blonde hair. All that was left was the sound of her sandals clomping on the wooden dock. “Alright, Parish.†Sonny’s voice rose in an answer. Then the Southerner watched the beautiful debutant cop head down the dock and get into her car. He let out a breath he didn’t know he had been holding, a breath of relief, when the car drove away. *********************************************************Gina had gone back to her empty apartment. Only there for a few minutes she knew she didn’t want to be alone and knew she needed to be with Gordon. A drive would clear her mind and being held by the man she loved, Gina hoped it would take the thoughts of Sonny away, putting them where they belonged. She pulled onto the road, the top down, blowing her hair wildly as her mind raced like the engine of the car. The thoughts kept invading. Her mind partly on the road, the other part watching the past clearly fly by, of the man she had also loved but couldn’t offer her what she needed, James “Sonny†Crockett. He was walking into a death trap, the fear coursed through her veins and she remembered the fierce eyes turning soft when he looked at her as he mapped out his plan in the briefing. She knew it was his way of trying to make the brunette along with the others not worry about what he already knew could happen. Fear brought the memories bouncing back. The first memory made her warm as she remembered feeling safe in Sonny’s arms when they used to lie on the bench seat of the St. Vitus. The next jumped to sleeping, snuggled up to this man. She remembered the many times she’d wake first and enjoyed watching him with the peace that only held his face in sleep. Memories of parties they’d had with friends and sleeping in his favorite football jersey fled by. She also remembered the times he’d been there for her even after they had broken up. How after she’d been raped by a pimp when her cover was blown. She’d shot this horrible man and Sonny’s eyes locked to hers before being drawn into his arms for comfort. Next to flash by was him being there for her when she dated Sean Caroon and how he’d stuck up for her until they found out that Sean was indeed still a terrorist. He had waited until everyone had left the briefing, came to her, wanting to make sure she was alright and genuinely sorry that it hadn’t worked out. Later she had held a gun on Sean, not knowing the terrorist was about to pull his own out and kill her. Luckily, Sonny had snuck up and saw the Irishman’s hand move to the gun. He realized what this man was going to do and shot Sean, saving Gina from both, having to kill Caroon and being shot. When the man had died and fallen to the tamarac, she had ran to the wall of the roof, flanked by Rico on one side and Sonny on the other. They both stood there supporting their follow officer and friend. Naturally, Gina had turned to the safety of Sonny’s arms and cried as he held her and whispered softly into her ear. She remembered how he took her home and as it happened every now and then, they made love. Even broken up they would still be there for one another, a safe harbor for both. After that night she knew she’d be alright. Gina’s thoughts whirled to the jealousy she felt for the man she had wanted to love her and someday marry her. She could clearly recall Brenda, Theresa and other unnamed women he had been with, it hurt her. Thinking about it now, brought reminisce of just how much. At first she knew he didn’t realize what he was doing to her, until Rico had spoken to his partner. Then Sonny showed more sensitivity towards her. Rico had always been good to Gina, albeit he always stood by his partner, trying not to get in the middle. Rico, the partner Sonny loved so much he was willing to take the chance of rescuing him, even if that meant he’d die in the process. The detective shook at comprehending this fact. Her memories continued. They again brought to mind, how back then, they occasionally still slept together. Feeling compassion in the job that few understood, they’d placate one another when in need. And she knew she wasn’t the only one soothed by his caring. Trudy had told her partner but never got into detail. All Trudy had told her partner was that she needed someone and Sonny had stayed behind and waited for her. He had been a bit high from the coke thrown in his face by Adonis. The high didn’t last to long and the comfort was there for her. The good looking blond had slept with her. Trudy had admitted to her neediness and not wanting to be alone. Gina had been jealous but knew that losing David at the expensive of her job, she had needed someone, that someone was Sonny. That person had always been Sonny. He would hone in with sincere empathy and it wasn’t to get laid, that played no part in the sex that occasionally happened between Sonny and Trudy, or Sonny and her. This was to comfort, to ease the pain. How could she blame any of them for that? After all she and her partner did the same thing for Sonny. What had finally broken the pattern and had shown the Hispanic detective that sleeping together, with her and rarely with Trudy would end, was his marriage to Caitlin Davies. He cared enough to pull her aside and explain about the marriage. She wanted to hate this Caitlin but found the Scottish singer to be likeable and feisty, a challenge to Sonny. She showed Crockett that they were still friends by choosing the honeymoon that everyone had chipped in for. Over the years, things that had happened let her know he did feel more for her than others co-workers, except, maybe Rico, but he was Sonny’s partner. There was a special place in his heart for her, like she had for him. The thoughts flew by like the drive. She found herself at Gordon’s and smiled at the thought that she had finally met the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. He was everything she had wanted and more. Yet in the back of her mind she didn’t like or understand why Sonny being around again was pushing feelings out that she thought were forever in a special place. She wondered if it was seeing him again after four years. And also wondered if it was the fear of what he was about to do that unlocked that door to this place in her heart. Maybe it was a bit of both. Hopefully, being with Gordon and telling him her fears about this case would help with filing these feelings away. Thank God, Gordon wasn’t jealous of Crockett. He liked and respected the man, even worked with Crockett a few times. She’d been honest with Gordon, in every way, including about Sonny. She knew they’d make love after they spoke and would fall asleep in safe bliss. Sliding out of her car, hoping that after tonight everything would be put back in the place they belonged, she went up to the door, unlocked it and went inside. (to many charactistics. Please continue this chapter on the next post.)

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The rest of Chapter TenA hand ran across the sheets on the empty side of the bed. Brown eyes slowly opened at the feel of the cold vacant spot. Light slid through the blinds letting her know it was morning. She blinked, almost wanting to go back to sleep, but not alone and now with the clock blaring 6:30 a.m. it was impossible. The pretty brunette rose and slipped into a satin robe before padding out of the bedroom and around the house in search of her missing companion. Gina had been staying at Gordon’s more and more over the two years they’d been together. Her clothes and personal items slowly moving from her apartment to his house and an extra key was added to her key ring. Now that they were engaged she stayed at the lawyer’s home at least five times a week, only using her apartment a couple of days when on long assignments or very late nights. He wanted her to move in permanently since they were marrying in less than three months and would be living there anyway. She happily told him when her lease was up next month she’d move in. Staying at the apartment twice a week gave her justification for why she still paid the rent and bills there. Wandering around the house she finally found Gordon tucked away in his office. The brunette stood in the doorway watching her fiancé. He was showered, dressed and looking over a file as he sat in the big leather chair behind his desk. Gina wandered in coming to stand in back of the chair and startled the lawyer when her arms slid around him. “You’re up early. I reached for you and the bed was empty.†Gina kissed his cheek. “I have to be in court early. I told you, this case is important, so I decided to review the file, again.†Gordon answered while he closed that file. “Well can’t have you going to court on an empty stomach. Come on and I’ll make some breakfast.†She took her arms from around him, walked to the doorway and looked over her shoulder to see if he was following her. He didn’t seem right. Maybe this case had him nervous. Gordon poured two mugs of coffee from a pot that he had made earlier. He also took two glasses down filling them with orange juice. The lawyer watched the woman he loved pop bread in the toaster and then go back to scrambling some eggs. He’d have to speak to her about last night. She had fallen right to sleep after making love. He could only toss and turn, barely getting any sleep until he finally got up and hit the shower. Gina buttered the toast and then slid the eggs onto two plates. She laid them down on the table before taking a seat and a sip of her coffee. “You always make my coffee the way I love it.†She smiled with appreciation. Gordon took a bite of his toast and then sipped his coffee. “I only want to make you happy.†Softly came from his lips. The detective looked up with a smile, “You do make me happy, happier than I ever thought I’d be.†The cop in her noticed his somber look, “Hey, what’s wrong?†Gordon sighed, it was time. “I want to make you happy. Only last night you were so afraid and I wanted to be there for you. I know you felt better after we talked, and that you were totally there with me,†This was harder than he thought it would be. He didn’t think of him self as a jealous man, but after last night he had to make sure, he had to tell her. They’d both had to be sure of their future together. He gazed at the beautiful woman before him. Even without make-up and hair mussed up, she was beautiful, “Gina, I love you, but last night when we made love,†He paused for a moment to get his thoughts together, “when we ……. When we peaked and just a few moments before, you started calling me……..Sonny.†Shock over took Gina’s face. How could she have done that? She loved this man, yet hurt him by calling her ex-lovers name. “Oh God.†A trembling hand reached her mouth, “Gordon, I’m so sorry. I know it’s this case but still I never meant to hurt you, I love you. You have to believe me.†Desperate eyes tried not to let the tears that shone in them fall. “I know you love me, but you loved Sonny once and it took a long time to get over him. Now, something is going on, maybe what you told me last night, maybe not. Still, I think you need to spend time at your place. Finish this case, think about things and when you figure it all out I’ll be here. We can’t start a marriage with Crockett in between us. I know you didn’t do it purposely. I just need you to figure out where he belongs. Maybe after this case you can do that. You know I like Sonny, but I love you and I’m not going to share you with a memory of a relationship that was years ago. I know the fear is setting some of it off but you are the only one that can find out the answers to all the questions. If not, you may need to talk to Sonny. I need you to be sure about us and I think some time away is needed. You know you can call me, but you have to do this part without me.†Gordon stood up, his hand rested on her shoulder. It saddened him to see the tears running down her face as she looked up at him. Gina sniffled. God, she did remember, but had thought it was a dream. She was making love to Gordon and then he had suddenly turned into Sonny. She felt her face heat with shame at the sudden clarity of recollection. Gina had actually seen, made love and called out Sonny’s name. How that must have hurt Gordon. He was right, she had to settle this in her mind and it had to be away from him, on her own. “You’re right, I need to figure this all out so I can get on with life,†She stood, kissed his cheek and whispered, “I love you, don’t forget that.†Without waiting Gina left the kitchen to shower, get ready for work and pack up some things before she left to go to OCB. Gordon stood and watched the woman he loved leave the kitchen. He cleaned up, grabbed his keys and went into his study. He locked the file in his brief case and then left for his law office and a day in court. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. PART ELEVEN Tall black trees, like spears, shot up into a sky that couldn’t be seen due to the white heavy fog swirling to the ground. A path of brownish green was the only color that could be seen just a few inches ahead. Crockett slowly followed the path, not sure what was ahead or where he was, or even how to get out. Glancing around didn’t help. He latched onto the damp tree trunks, walking at a snails pace in case there was water in the way or a gator. Boy, Elvis would have loved it here, he thought, missing his watch gator that’d been gone for years. Crockett continued to crawl ahead. His breathing was intense from panic. He didn’t know what he’d find here or where here was. This place had to be the Everglades even though he didn’t remember coming out here, he had just appeared. His senses were heightened from all his thoughts and not having his gun. He felt naked without it. There was almost an antiseptic smell that shouldn’t be here, he mused. There was a sound that stopped him cold. He shivered in the humidity as he heard a ghostly voice. “Sonny.†The voice drifted by his ear. “What the fuck?†He craned his neck trying to find where the voice had come from. “Sonny, please, …… help me.†The voice, weak with fear, cried out to him. “Rico?†Sonny recognized the scared voice of his partner’s cry for help. His voice was weak from whatever they were doing to him. Crockett’s steps quickened, “Rico, where are you? I’ll get you partner. Just tell me where you are.†Laughter of a crazy man whirled around the cops head, rising in volume. Crockett wished again that he had his gun. He’d do anything to save Tubbs and his gut told him they already knew this. “Crockett, come save your partner. I have something favorite of yours and you have my favorite money, lets trade.†That voice was familiar, it was Mario Fuente. “Fuente, let Rico go and I’ll take his place.†Crockett yelled, “I’ll do whatever you want, just let him go.†Crockett hid his emotions while he tried to bargain. “So altruistic of you, Crockett, so I’ll let you see detective Tubbs.†The fog faded and Crockett saw Tubbs tied down to a bed, the antiseptic smell becoming stronger. He saw an old Oriental man pushing a needle into the detective’s arm. Saw Tubbs surrender to the syringe. Green eyes focused on track marks that ran down both his partner’s arms. He winced at the pain his partner felt and the pain he felt for his partner. Suddenly, a ringing started to drown out the sound and vision. It grew louder, almost painfully so. The image faded. Crockett bolted up in bed, drenched with sweat, he yelled, “RICO!!!!!†That was when he realized it had been a dream and then gradually turned his head, taking in the ringing phone. He picked it up and put the receiver to his wet head, “Yeah.†The gravelly hoarse voice answered. “Crockett, did I wake you? Man, I thought you’d be up already.†He recognized the voice as he tried to clear his brain from the intense feeling the dream had given him, “Duddy?†“Yeah, who else? Never mind,†The sweeper rapidly chattered, “Sleeping in? Thought you’d be up and almost out the door, glad I caught ya.†“Wait,†Sonny became alarmed when he saw the clock said seven thirty in the morning, he then gave his attention back to Duddy, “Had trouble sleeping, I’m getting ready now,†Sonny jumped up and started getting ready as he spoke to Steve, “I hope this is good news, Stevie.†Sonny stated with a cranky voice. “Oh most defiantly, our friend wants the exterminator to come get the pests out. He wants me to drive to pier 37 and wait for the boat to pick me up at ten this morning. I just got off the phone with the man himself.†Steve sounded pleased with himself as he gave the information to Sonny. Sonny had quickly brushed his teeth and was now pulling on clothes, “We have to change the plan. He wants you to drive out to the pier,†Sonny thought for a moment, “ok, you drive to OCB when you get done. And Steve, make sure you ain’t followed. I’ll notify the front desk that I’m expecting you.†Sonny put on his holster and then slipped into his shoes. “Sonnneeyyy, I was a cop, I know how not to be followed and if I am how to lose them. Remember I’m a paranoid guy? And our types don’t like to be followed.†Duddy told his friend before he started his insane laugh. “Yeah, right. Now play it straight, Stevie and I’ll see you right and I MEAN, right after you step off that boat, got it?†Crockett growled the warning. “Sure, right after I get off the boat.†Sonny pushed the button, hanging up the phone. He grabbed his jacket and keys, locked up the boat before heading to the office and informing the lieutenant of the change in plans with Fuente. All the way to OCB he couldn’t shake the dream he’d had. His head pounded from the dream as well as not enough sleep. And his stomach churned at the replay of the feelings, and visions he’d dreamt about his close friend and partner. The Southerner’s heart ached also; he loved Tubbs and couldn’t stand the thought of what was being done to his friend. Looking quickly in the mirror while he was talking to Duddy, he had noticed the dark circles under his eyes, thank God for his sunglasses. He wished he could wear them in the office. Hell, he just wished this was over and Rico was safe. The detective realized he had been pushing the speed limit and weaving around cars, he prayed that an officer wouldn’t pull him over. He had to get to OCB and talk to Marty. The blond knew once at the office he’d calm down a bit and be able to take some aspirins and drink that black caffeine liquid he required. Then the full focus of his attention would be on what needed to be done. ********************************************************** All the detectives filed into the squad room. Gina told Trudy the abridged version of what had transpired between her and Gordon. Trudy shook her head, some how knowing something like this would happen. She should have pushed the issue about Gina staying at her house, she thought. “I knew you should have stayed at my house, I should have pushed it.†Trudy stated, frustrated at herself, at her friend and at the whole situation. “Trudy, it’s not your fault,†Gina’s elbow sat on her desk, the side of her face rested into the palm of her hand, “Damn it, I can’t believe I was making love with Gordon and then he suddenly turned into Sonny. I thought it was a dream.†The brunette spoke quietly, the pain clear in her voice. “Honey, you knew all this opened that old wound. We should have talked about it instead of skating around the issue. That’s something Sonny does with his emotions, was part of what sank you two,†Trudy could see that Gina was a bit distraught, but not totally. She wondered if her partner was numb and reality hadn’t sunk in yet. “Gordon knows you love him, knows you need time to get through this case and then put your feelings for Crockett to rest. Old wounds open when you least expect them. Look what happened with me and David years ago.†Trudy sighed. Gina shook her head, “Yeah, but you didn’t call David by an ex- lover’s name or fantasize he was that ex-lover.†“True, but Gordon loves you and knows you love him. He’s hurt but you two can work it out, I know you can. Give it time like the man said, I think you’re underestimating, Gordon.†“Maybe.†Gina answered quietly and then gave a small smile to her friend, “Still the cheer leader for us.†“Well somebody’s got to be.†Trudy gave a bright smile back. “We’ll talk later, too many people are coming in and I certainly don’t want this going around or for Crockett to hear about it.†The Hispanic detective whispered. “You’re right. We do this case and we’ll talk it out. Maybe once the case is over, things will be alright. Like I said the fear might be what opened this up in the first place. I’m getting coffee you want one?†“Yeah, thanks.†Gina smiled thankfully up at her partner, “And thanks for the ear.†Trudy stood over her partner, still smiling, “That’s what I’m here for, besides watching your back. Anyway, I’ve heard this story before.†She laughed and then walked away. Gina turned her head to see Julie walk in. The young blonde glanced around the room before sitting down at her desk with Tanya. “Well, how did it go last night?†Tanya inquired. “Just like you said it would. He is attracted to me but his mind is totally on Tubbs and after a while he asked for a rain check.†Julie smiled. “I did tell you that, but it’s great he admitted the attraction and asked for a rain check, that’s a positive for Sonny Crockett. The mans a charmer and a hell of a lot of other things I’ve found out over the years, but I’ve told you all I know about him. Just let this case finish and afterwards, watch your self. He’s only been serious with a few women in his life, like I’ve said. And from what Swi told me he craves love but it some how always gets fucked up, like that Theresa, the addict and that madam and of course his ex-wife, and then Caitlin Davies. How horrible was that one, to free the man who eventually kills your wife and unborn child, God.†Tanya shook her head at the pain the senior detective had gone through. She had great admiration for Crockett and a nice teasing friendship. She was glad that Joey had befriended the cop and got her into Vice. Lewis was anxious to be introduced after hearing Hardin talk so much about the detective who eventually became his mentor. “Yeah, I know, I stumbled with that one last night. He tried to hide some thing he was going through, but I interpreted more about him than he would have liked me to. I have hope about this. It’ll take some effort, but I think things can work.†Julie optimistically told Tanya. The clock read eight fifteen a.m. when Crockett hurriedly crashed through the double doors. Julie stood up to block the blond detective. “Hey, did you sleep at all last night?†Concern deeply laced in the female detective’s quietly asked question and the dark circles she saw under the man’s eyes. Sonny was uncomfortable. He hated being late, needed to speak to Marty and didn’t want to be rude, again, to Parish, “Ah, yeah, slept a bit but woke up late. Um, sorry I have to get into see Marty,†Sonny winced at how short he was being. He gave her shoulder a light affectionate squeeze while meeting her eyes briefly before advancing to Castillo’s office. Gina watched the interaction. She turned to see that both Joplin and Switeck had observed it too. They had also overheard the quiet but quick conversation. “Hmmm, guess Parish is trying her luck on Crockett, you see her star struck eyes after he left for the lieutenant’s office?†Gina inquired secretly, with some annoyance. Switek shrugged, “What can you do. Sonny’s, Sonny, always been a magnet for the women,†seeing the strange look he got from his female partners, Stan decided to mind his own business. He got up when Sammy came out of the kitchen, and grabbed his jacket. They were heading out to the fishing boat to set up, “See ya ladies.†“Bye Stan.†The girls said in unison. “Good luck you two.†The dark detective called out to both men before they passed through the double doors. “Now back to Miss star struck. Gina you have to stop this, you’re sounding like you did years ago and you’ve come too far.†The voice was stern with reason and concern. “I know, I know, you’re right. Guess it is this damn case.†Gina pushed back her chair and stood up, “I’ll be back.†She joked, trying to imitate the terminator, making them both laugh. ********************************************************** “So the pests have been eliminated, now we can make arrangements for our other guest. My men are out hunting him down as we speak,†The tall lanky man spoke to his partner while pacing before he finally found a place to sit. “Will Crockett be brought in tonight?†the partner asked. “I think it’s safe to say he’ll be here, a bit beaten, but we’ll have the pleasure of both the detective’s company,†Mario smiled at the thought, “I took the liberty of having my men hang a hook from the ceiling beam in detective Tubbs’ room. I think Crockett will be hanging around for a while.†Fuente chuckled at his joke before taking a glass of juice from his hired servant. “Good, I can’t wait to watch him die, like a side of beef.†His partner smiled in pleasure. “I’m not sure I will kill him. I’ve found out some interesting information. Crockett will soon be the Lieutenant of the Vice unit. Given the expertise of Doctor Lee, I think that the man can do the same to Crockett that he’s going to do with Tubbs. Then I’ll have two leaks in the two places I need them the most and Lieutenants always know more than their squad. Lee will program both men to call me when they hear something and the minute the phone is hung up they will not remember calling me, or my number. That makes the risk of them getting out of line or saying anything that shouldn’t be said, erased.†He again chuckled, “Oh, but I will first have Crockett worked over and see about the money Cate’s stole from me.†His evil eyes meet his partner’s. “You won’t hurt Tubbs.†Wasn’t a question but a statement. “Of course not, I gave my word to you. You’ve been very loyal to me and I reward loyalty. He will pass on the information and will be in New York and all will be happy. And I will have Lee erase the bond that Crockett and Tubbs have. Oh, it will happen gradually, no one will figure it out. Once Tubbs is back in New York they will no longer have contact with one another. That will work out for both of us.†“Good.†His partner satisfied, stood up and walked out onto the deck to enjoy the sun. ********************************************************** Crockett couldn’t count how many aspirins he had taken or how many cups of coffee he had drank. He stuffed a doughnut down his stomach earlier to counter act any tearing up the pills or caffeine would do. He knew Duddy was on his way up to OCB and gathered up the team that was still in the office. They sat waiting, while Sonny perched himself against the wall, watching the door. Sonny’s mind raced, his eyes were on the door, oblivious to all in the room. He wanted Steve to come in and tell him how Tubbs was, where he was. The torture of not knowing was driving him crazy, along with the dream Steve had woken him from.Hearing a whistling, the green eyes saw the sweeper coming through the door to the strategy room. He pushed himself off the wall and stride along side of Castillo. The Hispanic’s eyes focused in on the tall, thin man. “Did it work?†Steve became animated, “Did it work? Of course it worked! I fed him the antiquated bugs from the department after I put in my own high tech ones. I even have a few on the decks. Now I have to get to the fishing boat and get them started up, so we can listen and record,†He grinned widely and then looked directly at Crockett, “You wearin’ yours? I need to get the tracker going too.†Crockett blinked in thought and then remembered going back down to put the tracking chip on the inside of his waist band of his trousers, “Yeah, it’s on. What about Tubbs? Did you see him? Where do they have him?†Sonny fired questions at the man. Duddy held up his hands, “Wait, I was all over that boat and didn’t see Tubbs anywhere.†“What?†Sonny incredulously questioned. “I said I didn’t see him.†Duddy repeated. “I’m not deaf, I know what you said I just don’t see how that’s possible,†with that Sonny turned to the map, “Unless, …….Trudy, you pulled up Fuente’s holdings?†The dark skinned detective handed Sonny the sheet, “Here they are, all in companies that he owns. Mostly warehouses.†“I knew you’d find them, thanks, darlin’†Sonny looked over the sheet. “Hey, you need me or can I go set up?†Duddy asked with impatience. “Hardin, Diaz, take Duddy in the Scarab to the fishing boat.†Martin told them and then went back to what Sonny was saying. “Yes, Lieutenant.†Hardin answered grabbing his drink and jacket. The three walked out the door as Sonny gazed over the map on the wall. He had marked most of the warehouses in black and two in red. He pointed at the board as he explained, “These are all of Fuente’s warehouses, thanks to Trudy. The ones I have in red are where I think he has Tubbs. These two are next to each other, by the water and away from people,†Sonny tapped at them in thought, “No one around these to report anything. I think a team should go out there, Marty. Obviously I can’t, I have to play footies with Fuente’s thugs. I’ll be in my car, let me know what happens.†The detective’s eyes met Martin’s. “Yes. Augustine, Dimmal, Calabrese, Joplin, Lewis, and Parish, come with me. Sonny you start your run around, keep them away from the warehouses. And make sure Duddy has enough time to activate your tracker. I’ll call you when we’ve secured the buildings.†Castillo scrutinized Crockett with the last part of his statement. Sonny shook his head, “Don’t worry, I plan on givin’ them a run for their money.†Sonny gave his superior a wide grin. “Crockett.†Castillo and Crockett momentarily locked eyes. To most, Martin only saying his detective’s name would have just sounded stoic and they wouldn’t know the meaning behind it. To Sonny, knowing Marty so long, he heard the undercurrent of concern and to be careful. It had taken a little time, but Crockett could read what the man meant with those single words. “No cowboy stuff. Got it. You find Tubbs and call me right away.†Sonny answered and then urgently told his superior before grabbing his jacket and leaving. Trudy and Gina stifled a giggled. They’d witnessed this side of Castillo and Crockett’s relationship too many times not to understand. The younger detectives and even Augustine and Dimmal didn’t understand but shrugged as they got up to check out the warehouses. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind.I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. PART 12 The water lapped against the stone wall to one of the dilapidated parts of Miami. Just beyond the water were two run down and rusty aluminum ware houses that were attached. Around them stood a chain link fence that at one time had been locked. With time came wear, the gate doors were torn, one swung unbolted with large openings, the other gate only a frame. Across the street sat three more broken down ware houses, the rest of the street was barren. Unmarked police cars slowly parked up the street. Uniforms were around the corner waiting five minutes to come in for back up. Quietly, the Vice squad followed the Lieutenant’s lead. He ran down along the water where the broken windows were to high for anyone to see him or his people. They came up to the L shaped adjoining buildings. He gave hand signals to the pairs. Parish and Lewis swung to the side door that connected the two buildings, Joplin and Calabrese hit the front of the one ware house. Dimmal and Augustine covered the attached back. Castillo took the front of the other ware house. All of the team had a radio and waited for the signal to charge in. They stood silently letting the ninety degree, hot sun, glare down on them. Seeing no air conditioning unit, they all knew it would be hotter inside. “GO!†came across all the radios. The teams moved in, guns raised and heads looking both ways. The inside was indeed sweltering. The buildings were desolate, only some garbage and some old machinery lay around on the floor, where the detectives took cover. Several feet away from the large broken window that faced the water, stood an old refrigerator. Next to it was a wooden table along with two fans blowing hot air. Four men sat on folding chairs, playing poker. Behind them was a locked cage with a few large pallets. A huge blue plastic tarp hid whatever was under it. The men laughed as they played their game, not hearing the team surrounding them. All in place, Castillo announced them. “Freeze, Miami Vice!†Two of the men fell from their chairs, the third threw the table in front of him, and the forth man crawled between the pallets and refrigerator, pulling the door open. The other two men stood and stepped away from the table, their hands up. “Get back against the wall!†Dimmal shouted to the two surrendering men as bullets flew at the cops from the two hidden men. The surrendering men started back but were shot by the man hidden behind the refrigerator door. Both men stumbled, falling hard to the cement floor, blood oozing around them. The other two men continued to fire. The man behind the table tried to get to the side door focusing his attention in the direction the bullets were coming from. He didn’t see Lewis or Parish by that side door he was trying for. The cold metal of Lewis’s gun barrel hit the man’s neck. His gun immediately dropped to the floor, Lewis kicked it away. Parish cuffed him and read him his rights. The last guy that was hiding knew he had no chance, after seeing how many officers there were covering every exit. He dropped his gun and put up his hands. Castillo felt for a pulse on the two shot men. Finding none, he walked over as Joplin and Calabrese cuffed the last guy and Dimmel and Augustine collected the guns. Castillo called the uniforms in to take the remaining two down to interrogation and then called for the coroner. “Get me a bolt cutter.†Castillo ordered. When he was handed one, he snapped the chain off the cage. The officers stepped in and helped take the plastic tarp off a rather large amount of cocaine. “I guess Fuente hides his stash here. But I don’t see Rico.†Gina looked down at the drugs and then back up at the Lieutenant and the squad. Castillo stood starring at the drugs, “Bring this down town to evidence.†He commanded to a few of the uniform police officers. He’d sign it in when he got there. “What about Rico?†Trudy reiterated what her partner had just said. “Fuente hid him from Duddy.†Castillo spoke in thought. “Where could he hide Rico that Duddy couldn’t find him or where he didn’t think he was bugged?†Gina asked. “Years back, smugglers would use the hull of a boat. Build it for storage, with maybe an office and a secret door to go down into it. It’s a possibility.†The stoic answer surprised the whole squad. “I never knew that.†Dimmel stated. “I’ll call Crockett. Augustine and Dimmel go to interrogation, ladies I want a report on my desk in two hours.†With that said he was almost to the door. ********************************************************** Sonny had been driving around for almost two hours, losing the tail and then getting it back again. If it hadn’t been for Rico’s life on the line, he would have been laughing at this game. He picked up the phone when it rang. “Yeah†“Sonny, Tubbs isn’t here, just two hundred kilos of cocaine. There were four guards; two dead the other two are being interrogated. Fuente might have the hull of his boat built up for storage and an office or room where he’s keeping Tubbs.†Martin told his detective. “Yeah, I remember when I first started in Vice, coming across one of ‘em type boats. Used a long time ago for smuggling, before cigarette boats were so fast and they didn’t wanna use a plane. Those even have hidden doors to make it hard to find the stash.†Crockett shook his head in amazement at the old fashioned way the man could be smuggling. “This is only speculation. But there was no need for Duddy to go down there since it was hidden.†Martin added. “I guess this makes it a different game now. If you’re right, you won’t be able to hear anything, but you will have the tracker. If Fuente does have a built up hull, I hope Duddy can receive through the walls they built it up with,†Sonny sighed at the thought, “I’ll have to step this up a bit, let them grab me faster. I’m gonna go to the boat; don’t wanna leave my car around town. Plus, these here bozos stink at huntin’, they’d starve if they was huntin’ for food. Been playin’ with them the past few hours, I lose them, and then I see where they’re at and let ‘em find me. Christ, if they had any brains they’d still be morons. Can’t see who they are, but I’m betting they’re the muscle that was on my boat the other night.†Crockett told his boss in amazement at the stupidity of these men. But in the back of his mind he knew they were hired for their ability to protect and beat people to a pulp. He wasn’t relishing that one. “Crockett, do what you have to do. Remember, you’ll be there and I’ll be here, we’ll follow your lead. Make sure you use everything you have. Lee is a dangerous man.†Castillo advised and then warned the blond. “Yeah, I’ll play it as I see it. But I’d be much obliged if you’d all stay close. I have a hunch we’ll need help at some point. I think you’re right about the hull. But if not…….†Sonny was cut off by his boss “We’ll keep searching. The fishing boat will be as close as it can be. I’ll coordinate things here, including other places where they could be holding Tubbs. †Castillo assured Crockett. “I think you’ll all hear when they bring me aboard and if they have Tubbs, Duddy will let you know. And Marty, if they don’t, I know you’ll keep lookin’ for him, and ya all will be there for me. Thanks, Marty. I better go, wish me luck.†Sonny said with a smile on his face and in his voice. He had a gut feeling that Marty was right about the hull of Fuente’s boat and that Tubbs was there. But just in case that slime had Rico somewhere else, looking more wouldn’t hurt. He knew his friend would cover all the bases, for him, as well as Rico. “Buena suerte, amigo mio.†Martin answered with a smile. Sonny could hear the friendly and concerned tone in Martin’s voice, a tone he didn’t use in the office and Sonny knew he only used with friends. The blond’s mind paged through his Spanish. After a second he realized what Martin had said: Good Luck friend of mine. That brought more of a smile to the detective’s face. There was nobody more he trusted with his life than Castillo and Rico, and of course his unit. “Gracias.†With that Sonny hung up the phone. He pondered the thought of the built up hull and Tubbs being down there, it made sense. At least if he was taken, Tubbs wouldn’t be alone, he was sure they’d be placed together or in the same area. He glanced in the rear view mirror, “Well guys, lets get home so you can take me to the dance.†He gave a ruthless smile while he pushed on the accelerator and headed toward the marina. **********************************************************Sonny knew it wouldn’t be long before his visitors would come for him. He took his jacket and sunglasses off and put his ankle holster away. His other gun lay out of the holster, on the couch, where he sat down with a bottle of Orange Juice. He needed something in his system. He chose not to have a beer; he didn’t want the alcohol in his body. Sitting still, he psyched him self up for the beating he would take. Ready, he swallowed the last of the juice and waited. He wasn’t disappointed when he heard the men board his boat. Ok junior, it’s time to take that beating, but not without a few good punches of my own, he thought quickly. Crockett recognized the three hulky men that came into his cabin. Two men, Alex and Manny held machine guns, while Fernando stood in between them. Crockett had his gun in hand and lowered it when he saw the two guns that were pointed at him. “Guess I won’t be using this.†Sonny spoke out loud when he put his gun down. “That’s right, detective, no need for that. Now, stand up.†Fernando ordered. Crockett stood, his hands slightly raised and a tight lipped grin on his face. “You girls don’t tail well. Maybe you aught ta take a few lessons.†He smirked. “No need for the smart ass remarks, senor.†Fernando nodded his head to Alex. Crockett gave a wise guy smile to the three men, “Well Ladies, guess it’s time to dance.†Alex narrowed his look at the blond, not understanding what he meant, though it made him even angrier. “I do not dance.†Sonny slowly nodded, his grin turned lopsided, “Probably why your dance cards empty, a-mi-go.†Alex started towards Crockett, who watched his prey carefully. A noise from a party on the boat next to his gave him the chance he was looking for. The thugs were caught off guard for a second. Crockett lowered his torso and then plunged into the big monster in front of him. Hitting Alex with his shoulder at full force, Crockett tackled the thug down to the ground. The gun flew across the room as fists hit flesh. The whole thing only took a minute or so before Crockett felt the other man’s gun pushed into his side. The hulk had been beating him, badly, although the ex-football player not only got his tackle in but a few good punches of his own. Fernando grabbed the blond’s hair and lifted him to his feet. He let go and stepped away. Crockett saw Alex coming at him. Great, some more fun, he groaned to him self. Alex stomped angrily towards the cop, but instead of getting his gun, he beat Sonny hard. Manny aimed his gun at the cop so that Crockett couldn’t fight back. Alex punched the detective so hard his body rammed into the table. The corner hit into Crockett’s side, making his body doubled over onto the flat surface. The waist of his trousers caught on the corner of the table. Fernando grabbed and ripped the waist of the pants when he pulled the cop back to his feet. The tracking device tore off and floated to the floor, unnoticed before being crushed by Fernando’s boot. “Give me more time to beat this pig.†Alex growled. Sonny knew he was in bad shape from the beating. His lip was cracked, eye swollen, blood ran down his face from his head being banged against the table. He still felt the bruising of his aching body from the ham sized fists that had bounced off of him, one after another. “Very well, you may have a few more minutes. Senor Fuente wanted him beaten good, then we dose him for the ride.†Fernando told his friend. Crockett hadn’t made a sound, didn’t want to give them the satisfaction. He held it in with each blow, kick, or shove, through the first beating. He hoped he could hold the pain for the second round. Albeit exhausted and out of breath, panting, Crockett forced out his goading words. “A has-been …….. boxer who …… relies on somebody else’s …. muscle and a gun,†he took in a deep breath, hiding the pain, “if we were ….. in the ring, …….. man, you’d be the one …….down for the count.†The sarcastic remark rolled off the detective’s tongue before he could stop it. He could a see the snarl on the three goon’s faces and regretted his impulsiveness once again. “You think you a tough guy? I show you tough guy.†Alex’s voice came out in a feral growl. Fernando held Crockett tight this time and allowed his friend the opportunity to beat the cop without mercy. The heavy boot kicked the cop’s bad knee, making him finally groan. Getting a rise from the blond, the thug kicked Sonny again in the bad knee and then tore him out of Fernando’s hands. He threw the detective to the floor and kicked him several more times in his stomach, making the orange juice come up. They all smiled as the cop gave up what was in his stomach. After that, Alex started in again. Crockett curled in on himself for some protection. The cop felt the kicks to his back and body, the ham like fists connecting with his flesh. No longer could he keep from grunting and groaning from the massive pain that shot through him. The agony was so severe from the brutal attack, the detective wondered if he’d pass out instead of getting the chloroform. Crockett’s stubbornness made him fight the dizzy feeling of the concussion he figured he sustained and the pain that shot through his body like lightning. “See you are no tough guy, I break you, without someone holding on.†Alex spat. “Ok, Enough! Pick him up. I doubt he can stand on his own.†Fernando looked into the cops good eye, “You should be out and not need this,†Fernando held up the drug in the vial, “you very tozudo, mi amigo.†The man shook his head and then brought the cloth to the vial of chloroform. He watched as Alex laid the cop on the table and tied his hands with rope, in front of his body. He picked the officer up, allowing his friend to push the rag into Sonny’s face. Sonny felt pain in every part of his body. He knew how frustrated he had made the men by taking the beating and not groaning right away or passing out, that gave him perverse pleasure. Of course, hearing Fernando telling him, very stubborn, my friend, made it all the better. He knew what was coming next and braced himself for that sickening smell. The weak detective breathed in the drug, not fighting. His head began to spin worse, until darkness took over and he went limp in the thug’s arms. The unconscious body was thrown over the huge mans shoulder and carried onto the cigarette boat they had tied up to the yacht. He was dropped onto the floor for the ride back to Feunte.********************************************************** Duddy and Switek had set up the listening devices, all the tape recorders and Sonny’s tracking beacon, while Sammy stood by, helping out. They watched the red blinking light follow a map and knew when Crockett made it to the Sanity Maintenance. A few minutes later Duddy yelled to the two men. “They found him and are working him over but good. Look at that light move.†Duddy watched. Stan’s eyes locked onto the monitor, he hated his friend being beaten like this but knew it had to go down this way. His eyes locked for only a second to Sammy’s and Steve’s before going back to the monitor. The red blinking light moved and then the monitor went black. “What’s wrong?†Sammy exclaimed. “Yeah, we didn’t touch anything, why’s the screen black? We need to follow Sonny, know where they bring him!†Stan excitedly asked and then gave Steve a threatening stare. Steve’s hands went up in the air at the threat. He tried everything he could think of that could be the problem. Finally, he realized what happened, settled down and turned to the officers. “They dislodged the device in the fight, is my guess. There isn’t anything wrong with the equipment and it’s too small to be found. They were really giving him the business. You know Crockett, he probably provoked some of it and some how the device fell off and was accidentally crushed by a shoe or boot.†Steve explained. “Great, so now how do we find him and what do we tell Castillo?†The burly man asked folding his arms crossed over his chest. Steve smiled at the two cops, “Hey, no problemo, the bugs I have on the deck I can take out the wind and back round noises,†He started to turn dials and move levers, “We’ll hear him come aboard, and whatever goes on in the cabin.†The surveillance man knew Stan understood and noticed that Sammy did too, “So, tell your Castillo what happened and what we’re doing. We’ll hear the smaller boat come up and I’ll just follow them, going from one bug to another. You worry too much. And it’s all going to be on tape, the kidnapping, with Feunte’s voice. Be cool, guys, shees.†Duddy went back to work. Switek in the mean time shook his head and knew he’d have no problem explaining to his lieutenant. “Ok, great, keep going. I’m going to update the Lieutenant.†Stan reached over for the radio. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. PART 13 The sun was blaring, shining its rays into the blue sea. Fuente sat under the umbrella that perched over a table, with his partner, having a cool drink. Beads of sweat glistened before he took his handkerchief out and wiped them away. The hard eyes glanced at the cigarette boat approaching from a distance to his yacht. “The boat is coming with Crockett on it. Although he’s out of it, I think it might be a good idea if you left and kept out of sight. Just incase he wakes, we don’t want him to see you just yet.†The lanky man told his partner. “I think that’s a good idea. Are you putting Crockett down with Tubbs right away?†His partner asked. “Yes, I think that would be the best thing. He’ll wake to his situation and Tubbs can watch him hang unconscious, should be interesting to see how Mr. Tubbs takes that.†A thin smile formed on his face. “I wish I could watch and see his reaction myself,†his partner sighed and got up, “I wish this could be over in less time. I want to return home and have things in place. After thinking about it, Crockett as an informant is a wise move. Also, having Lee make it so that neither remembers calling you or your number after the phone hangs up is very smart. And I appreciate that they will no longer be friends; it will make things much easier.†A cheerful smile lit up his partner’s face. “I knew you’d see how wise it would be to have both the detectives working, unknowingly, for me.†He chuckled. “Mario, our working together has been a pleasure and I thank you for helping me.†“Ahh, but this also helps me,†he held up his champagne flute and clicked his partner’s, “To a long and prosperous partnership, with the help of course, of these two fine detectives. And one of them who will soon be the Vice lieutenant.†He smiled ruthlessly. “Yes. I better go, the boat is pulling up.†With that, his partner took the glass and headed to another part of the yacht. Fuente watched his men board with the unconscious detective slug over one of their strong shoulders. “Mr. Fuente, where do you want this?†Alex asked. Fuente chuckled, “Alex, my boy, you ask like he’s a piece of meat, and then again, he’ll hang like one. Bring him down with Tubbs and place him as we arranged. I am going to join you. Good work.†“Thank you, boss.†Fernando answered for them. **********************************************************The men and their boss took the detective down into the hull to Tubbs room. They opened the door and brought the unconscious man in. Strong arms lifted the blond up. Another slid the rope that was in between the cop’s hands onto the hook, hanging from the ceiling. The boss watched and then turned to the black detective. Rico had not been drugged today and wondered why. He heard noises in the hall and then watched the door open, bringing in four men. He saw the two guards, then his unconscious partner and, Mario Fuente. The detective suddenly knew why he hadn’t been drugged. He watched in horror when they hung his unconscious partner up on a hook like a side of beef. Then he saw Sonny’s beaten and swollen face. Tubbs winced briefly at the sight, knowing his partner would hurt like hell when he came to. Mario walked over to the bed that Tubbs was handcuffed to. He tilted his head inspecting the cuffs around the cop’s wrists and the brass bars. “Well Mr. Tubbs, you look comfortable. At least more comfortable than your partner will be, but at least you’ll have company now. Even if it’s only for a little while. We will be leaving this evening for an island and then Doctor Lee will….. Oh how shall I say this? He will make sure you both will be programmed to work for me. You’ll be cops on the take and not even know it. Oh, I forgot, you haven’t heard the good news. Mr. Crockett became a detective the day after your abduction. And in a month or so will become lieutenant of Metro-Dade’s special Vice Unit. And you know how important that information he will know will be to me. I’ll know before he even has a chance to tell his unit. Money in the bank and he owes me a lot of my favorite dollars,†He gave a hardy laugh at the thought. “pity, at least the cops that know they are on the take can spend the money I pay them. Well, have a nice reunion.†He said with a pleased expression. “We’ll never do it and Crockett never had your money.†Tubbs firmly told the man. “Oh I can assure you that neither of you will have a choice. You will have no memory of this,†Fuente thought for a moment, “Maybe he never did have the money, OR, maybe your friend is holding out on you, either way I’ll find out. Cate’s might have originally stole it, though Crockett could have stashed some for himself, leaving just enough for evidence,†He stared down at the New Yorker, “Later, my partner is interested in seeing you, a friend of yours.†The man gave a cagey smile, summoned his men and walked out the door, locking it. Tubbs was horrified, “Dios Sonny, what have they done to you?†Rico’s heart ached for his partner, knowing the man allowed this to happen in order to find and save him. Truth was, he knew that he’d do the same thing for his partner. They were so close, had been, almost from the start. After quitting the force they stayed close. Tubbs thought about the ten years he had known the Floridian, how over that span of time their relationship grew closer than he’d ever expected. Neither of them had, yet they depended on one another while working in Vice, and even afterwards, states away. It always seemed funny to Tubbs how he’d know when Crockett was hurting or in trouble and how Crockett knew the same about him. Crockett would call and just ask what was wrong, that he had a gut feeling or had had a dream. Tubbs would ask about the dream. When the Floridian told the New Yorker what he dreamt, the problem would be in it, veiled under something else. Tubbs never could understand Crockett’s dreams, but he could understand the gut feelings the cop always had. Though he didn’t often have them the way Sonny did about a deal going bad, he did had them about his friend, the same way Crockett had that gut feeling about him. Tubbs also would know for sure his gut was right, would phone and ask, what was wrong. Crockett would laugh and say Tubbs had called at the right time, as usual. Yeah, they had a connection, from almost the start. Just a look of the eyes and each would know the plan had changed in a meet and what they both had to do. He was lucky. They read each other so well on and off the job. You didn’t often find a friendship like they had. Then a new thought hit the detective’s brain. This partner of Fuente’s wanted to see him. The man even said the partner was a friend of his. What was that all about? How much worse could this whole situation get? And who was this damn friend? He knew that Sonny wouldn’t allow himself to be taken down without Castillo and the Vice Unit knowing about it. There had to be a plan and he hoped whatever it was would save them soon. He’d rather die than become an informant, a bad cop, and knew Sonny would feel the same. And he also wanted to know the friend that had betrayed him with Fuente. ********************************************************** Duddy tore off his head set, allowing the sound to come out of the speakers while it was being recorded. He turned to the four officers that were there with him. “I don’t know who the hell he’s talking to, but it sounds like he has a partner in this. Do any of you guys recognize the voice?†Duddy watched to see if the voice was familiar to any of the cops. “Dunno, doesn’t ring any bells.†Stan answered Steve. “Maybe a dealer he’s been working with up North?†Sammy asked. “No, not a dealer.†Hardin slowly said, listening to the conversation, “maybe a partner that collects information?†He mused. “Maybe. Could be that leak in New York Vice.†Diaz stated in thought. Stan nodded, “Sounds like it could be. But then why turn Crockett and Tubbs into informants? The plot thickens.†“He did make a point about mentioning that Crockett is going to be the lieutenant, and you know that a lieutenant knows things before the squad. And the way he’s planned it, Crockett will call in and Fuente will know everything before we do, and never realize he’s done it.†Joey surmised, “We have to get to them before this Lee does.†Joey added quickly, hiding his fears. “Joey, I think you’re right about that one. You’ve been learning too much from Sonny.†Stan agreed and then chuckled at how the young cop sounded a bit like his mentor. “He’s a good teacher, even when he was off the force.†Joey defended his friend. “I know that, Joe.†Stan quickly threw in, knowing that he too had learned from Sonny. “and we’ll get to them before Lee does, we have to.†Stan finished, his own anxieties kicking in. Duddy held up his hand to stop the talking, “Well, guess Crockett knows this partner, informant or whatever, since Fuente isn’t going to take any chances of this person being seen by him.†Steve filled in more of the puzzle, “Ok, they’re bringing Crockett aboard,†Duddy turned more dials as they all listened, “Christ….. they’re going to hang him from a meat hook?†A sickened look passed over the sweeper’s face. “Guess they have to have their fun some how.†Stan answered with disgust and trying to alleviate the tension they were all feeling. “Swi, don’t even say that, dude!†Hardin snapped at the other officer. He couldn’t imagine his friend, mentor, a man that was like a big brother to him, being treated like this, “God, I hope this plan works.†“Sorry Joey, didn’t mean it to sound that way. I just wanted to ease the tension. I’m close with him too and it disgusts me also. He means a lot too many people, and so does Rico.†Stan tried to explain. He knew the younger man understood seeing the dark strands of hair that shook with Joey’s nod. “Your Castillo was right. They’re in the hull, heard a door in the living room area. It must be in the wall, no way of hearing a thing down there.†Duddy told them and then sipped his large cup of soda. “Guess we’ll just have to keep a close eye on the boat and listen to what’s said. I’m going to call in.†Switek informed. “Once its dark we’ll be able to see better, it’s hard this far away and in the glaring sun. The night scope will help and bring things closer.†Joey idly mentioned. “Yeah, just hope they’ll be alright.†Diaz added. “We all do.†Sammy said while looking at all the concerned eyes in the room. “They have to be.†Stan added before going out of the room to inform the lieutenant.********************************************************** Sonny had only been hanging from the hook for twenty minutes before he started to regain consciousness. First he felt the pounding in his head, as he became more aware he felt the aching of pain through his face and body. Then it hit him, the throbbing and tenderness of his bad knee along with the pulling at his shoulders and wrists. He licked his dry lips, his mouth arid from the drug. He’d give anything for some water but knew he’d throw it up. His good eye opened slowly, allowing the light in, making his head feel worse. Tubbs had been watching Crockett and saw the man starting to regain consciousness. He was sure that the other detective was more perceptive, when he saw the one eye that wasn’t swollen take notice of his surroundings. “Sonny?†Tubbs softly called to his friend. Sonny’s head turned slightly, causing him to wince. He remembered the soft call of his name from his dream. Only this wasn’t a dream now, it was reality, he realized. “Rico?†the hoarse voice asked. “Yeah man, it’s me. You alright, partner? You look worse for the wear.†Tubbs reassured his friend it was him and then tried to find out how the blond was. Sonny grimaced, “Why…..thank you…..Ri-car-do….. You should …..feel it …..from my end.†The breathy pained statement came. “At least your sense of humor is still intact.†Somehow this made the darker man feel better. He knew Sonny was working on pushing the pain to the back of his mind. The detective often would with this type of situation, in order to do what had to be done. He’d seen it many times over the years. Sonny then gazed at Rico, assessing any damage to the man. He didn’t see any except the cuffs. “You ok, partner?†“Yeah, they been sedatin’ me. This doctor they have is going to brain wash us, like robots, to inform anything that goes on to Fuente. We won’t remember doing it. They’re going to have me go back to New Yark and you becoming the new lieutenant in Vice. He’ll have the two most important areas covered to get his dope in. The boat is moving out tonight to an island where Lee can do his thing. And Sonny, Fuente is going to ask about his money.†Tubbs quickly gave a summary to the other detective. Crockett wiggled a bit to see how tight the ropes were. He couldn’t do anything just yet. He’d have to get more of his bearings back, first. He tried to get as much saliva as he could before he swallowed hard to try and wet his parched mouth and throat. “That’s the game plan we heard, but I didn’t know I was invited. Damn him if he thinks I’m gonna be his informant!†Sonny growled out at the thought, “Did know he’d ask about that God damn money. Maaannn, Cate’s put me in the trick bag with that one. And it’s been what, nine years?†Crockett’s voice was scratchy but getting better. “Something like that, think it was eighty five. So you have a plan?†Tubbs remembered that whole case and how wired Sonny had been from it. He had helped his partner after it was over, though they both knew someday Fuente would return to question Crockett. That someday was now, only with a bigger goal in mind. And then he asked about a plan, knowing his partner would have one. “In the immortal words of Martin Castillo, we’re here and he’s there. But yeah, they’re watchin’, just ain’t able to hear us down in the hull. Duddy was here and cleaned up some bogus bugs and replaced ‘em with his high tech ones. Had a tracker on me but think that came off in the fight. We have to somehow get upstairs. They’ll hear us from the bugs, ‘n he put them on the decks too. It’s going to have to be tonight if he’s moving this boat.†Crockett explained, pushing his voice which was a little stronger. “Miami Steve is in on this? Can you trust him after last time?†Rico wasn’t sure about this after the last time Duddy had double played them. He waited to hear the answer to his question. “He’s changed, pal, somewhat over the years, especially after that case. Been talkin’ on and off with him, the last few years. I told him what I’d do to him if he pulled a fucking stunt like that again with us. Believe me, he ain’t gonna play us, I reckon he remembers he got off light last time.†Sonny thought about the threat he had given the sweeper, when he told his doubting friend. “If you say so, partner. They have the monitors up to watch us. They don't know I speak thier language. From listening to their conversation in Spanish, there's no bug, so that's why I asked. I'm not gonna say anymore, never know, now that we're together is they'll drop one in here when they come back.†Rico stated not to sure about Duddy and then had told Sonny about the lay out. The monitors could be seen but he didn’t know how clear Sonny’s vision was just yet, “Now, are we really in the hull? I didn’t know you could go in it.†Rico asked, not knowing anything but what Sonny had taught him about boats and certainly didn’t know about the usage of the hull. “Yeah, hulls built up for smuggling. They used to do it this way years back.†Sonny answered as he twisted a bit. He tried to rest one shoulder and wrist at a time from the pulling. He opened the swollen eye as much as it would go, when his vision cleared in the other eye. “Fuente threw me a little surprise. Seems he has a partner and it turns out the partner wants to see me today. Says this partner is a friend of mine.†Tubbs spat out. “Sounds like some hell of a friend.†“Was thinkin’ that myself. I want to see who betrayed me. Sorry you had to get involved in this, partner.†The New Yorker stated with annoyance before changing his voice to a guilty tone. “Not your fault, so stop the shit. Faster you stop that thinkin’, faster we can start figurin’ some things out. First I need to get some energy back. Damn, I could go for something cold, even settle for one of your fruity drinks I love so much.†Sonny chuckled as much as he could to lighten the mood. “You must be thirsty. I drank water from the bathroom when I woke, maybe they’ll bring you some thing. Wouldn’t do any good if they didn’t.†“Yeah, well, knowin’ Fuente, he’s gonna come in soon, with water or ice chips and his favorite questions,†Sonny threw Rico a very slight smile, “So what’s the lay out around here? I know from years back that this room must lead to a hall with a secret doorway out into the open, like the living room area. We just have to figure out how to get out, and then like I said they’ll be able to hear us. Most of this is on us.†Sonny filled Rico in. “Well, everything in this room is bolted down and nothing to use as weapons. Even the mirror in the bathroom is like the ones in a mental ward.†Tubbs told the blond. “Great, one of my favorite things, being held prisoner in a nut ward. Now we wait for nurse Ratchet to waltz in.†The Southerner shook the strand of blond hair away from his face, regretting it right away when his head pounded harder, “Christ.†He muttered, waiting for the pain to ease a bit before he continued, “We have to make a plan and get some weapons. It’s just you and me, partner, when it comes down to gettin’ out of here. Good thing we can still read each other, we’re gonna need that. ‘Cause when the gangs all here, they could do like you said and bug the room. ‘Course knowin’ Fuente, he probably reads lips, so we can’t keep bringing this up. Whoever gets a plan first the other will work from it.†Sonny sighed, letting his chin hit his chest. It hurt too much to keep holding it up and he needed to do anything he could to get some strength back. “Sonny, you alright?†Rico asked with worry. “Fine, peachy.†Rico knew what that answer meant. Sonny was hurting and wasn’t going to tell Rico just how bad. He’d just try and regain some of his strength to do what he had too. The detective knew that before and now the blond confirmed it. As if on queue, the door opened with Fuente and this time Manny, who carried a cup of ice chips. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for helping me by beta reading this and keeping it as close to Vice as possible. CHAPTER 14 The room was so quiet you could hear the water splash from the waves against the hull. Neither detective said a word. Mario Fuente scratched his face before motioning to Manny.“Give him the ice chips.†He ordered, standing silently. Manny put the small step stool down, climbed on top of it and began to feed the ice to the blond detective. Crockett’s eyes only took in the spoonful of ice, his face remained stoic. He didn’t want Fuente to see his need, or look at his captor while he chewed the ice, allowing it to turn into the cold liquid that filled his mouth and ran down his throat. He needed it. His voice had cracked a few times when he had spoken to Tubbs. After a few mouthfuls, Manny took it away and climbed down. Fuente’s gaze finally met the man’s face that he hadn’t seen in years.“Detective Crockett, guess it’s too soon to call you Lieutenant Crockett. I’ve been looking forward to this day, for a long time.†He smiled and ran his fingers around his moustache. Crockett’s glare never left the tall man, “Fuente, see you’ve crawled out from hiding. Miss the sewer, did ya?†the voice came through clenched teeth with a slight tight lipped smile. Fuente chuckled, “Crockeeettt. Still the same, I see. That sarcastic charm, I missed that.†“Yeah, that’s me alright, pal. All charm, a lotta laughs. Was loads of fun, watchin’ ya swim with the fishies last time we met.†The detective remembered making the man jump from his Scarab into the blue ocean and then speeding off, laughing with his partner. That was so many years ago, this time wouldn’t be so easy, he thought. His face remained unemotional, eyes still focused on the man who held their lives in his hands, who could have them programmed into informants, bad cops, if they didn’t escape. The lanky man paced in front of Sonny, contemplating, “Yes, that incident was when Cates took my money and then you killed him,†He turned to face Crockett, chin in his hand, “I know some of that money blew over, but I still have wondered over the years how much you took, only leaving a small amount for evidence.†“You know I was set up and all the money except what went into evidence is at the bottom of the ocean. Like buried, wet, treasure.†He adamantly stated. “Hmmm, now how do I know you’re telling me the truth? Maybe I’ll bring Lee in here with a nice syringe, filled with some great drugs. They’ll feel real good, Crockett, and then you can tell me the truth.†Fuente stared at the blond, seriously. He saw the slight panic the cop was fighting back; saw it behind guarded green eyes and face. Tubbs saw the panic too. He knew that Sonny would freak if he were dosed and lost control, he also now realized that Fuente knew this too. It suddenly occurred to the darker detective that the fear was being used against Sonny, but there was a small chance the dealer would do it. “He doesn’t have your money, I told you that before! It all went over except ten thousand. You did your homework. You have informants that told you that!†Tubbs shouted in anger and protectiveness of his partner. He’d do anything to keep Sonny safe, anything. Even if that meant the needle would be jabbed in him instead of his partner. Fuente pivoted to where the voice was coming from, “Yes, you did. But like I said before, he might be holding out on you. I think we need to find out. How nice to see you’d still protect your partner even if it meant taking the needle yourself,†He turned back to the other detective. Sonny was trying to calm himself. He was scared that the dealer would shoot him up and he’d have no control, but he wouldn’t let it just happen without a fight, “You know I don’t have you’re money. Just like Tubbs said, you’ve done your homework. How else would you know I’m back on the force and going to be a Lieutenant?†The rational voice tried the hook the man back to some kind of reason, “You also know I’ve got plenty of money from my second wife.†He hated talking to this slime ball, especially about his second wife, Caitlin Davies, but he had to keep pulling out the stops. He wouldn’t allow the alternative, the loss of control through drugs. He couldn’t handle that around this slime. Getting drunk with friends, that was different, this was unthinkable. “I know about Caitlin. She had such a marvelous voice, to bad she died because you let the murderer free, huh, Crockett?†Fuente hit the nerve he was waiting for. The cop tried hard to hold it back. But the dealer could see the anger trying to seethe its way out. Every part of Crockett’s brain screamed to strangle this low life for what he just said. Calm down junior, he’s baiting you. You worked through this with Dr. Philips. C’mon, pull it together! Sonny berated himself. “I’m not getting into this with you, you’re not worth it.†Crockett answered instead of tearing into the man, like he wanted to. “No, you’re right, that has nothing to do with the money,†He looked over to Manny, “Manny, go tell Doctor Lee to fill a syringe with some good drugs and truth serum, and bring it down for our friend, here.†Fuente gave an evil smile to the blond detective after he gave the command and Manny exited the room. “We ain’t friends.†The terse words came out immediately, hard eyes locked on his foe. “Oh we will be. Once you’re given that shot you’ll be everybody’s friend and just tell all you know.†He explained with slight malice. Tubbs watched both men, he could see that Crockett was starting to lose it. He hoped the other man didn’t notice Crockett fighting to hold it together. He shivered at the thought of what the drugs would do to the blond, during and after the experience. Sonny tried desperately to hold on to what little was left of his composure. He couldn’t have that shot. He’d not only be out of control, but he’d also tell everything, that included what they had done in Vice. The bugs, them watching, the thoughts that were forming a plan, they’d never get out. He searched his mind, racing to figure out how to stop this. “Fuente, you’re not going to do this. You know I ain’t got your money. With all your informants, you probably know more about me than a lot of other people. Even how much money I have with Cait’s estate, and I don’t even remember that one,†He forced him self to speak slowly and not have his words rush out the way they wanted to. “Maybe you spent it on your boat or car, or even your son?†Fuente’s eyes twinkled, “You have a wonderful son, Billy is it?†His eyes stared at the reaction he saw in the cops eyes and face. Finally that mask was just about down, just a little more prodding and it would be gone, “Yes, Billy, your son with Caroline. She’s very pretty, too bad it didn’t work out and she’s married again with another son. But Billy, he is special, isn’t he?†Crockett’s jade green eyes turned quickly into stormy cold ones, “You son of a bitch! You leave Billy out of this!†He growled knowing he had lost that facade he had been trying to hold onto, “He has nothing to do with this and neither does Caroline! Touch either one and I’ll kill you with my bare hands!†The second part was a feral threat. Tubbs watched Sonny’s eyes. With the good one he could see the color better and knew his partner had lost it. Then the fierce threat, that, Tubbs knew, Crockett would do if his son or Caroline were harmed. Fuente laughed, “Well, that’s what I wanted to see. The mask is off,†He turned to see Tubbs reaction and was pleased by what he saw. Quickly, without thinking either had noticed a bug was slid under the dresser handle. He then turned back to Crockett, examining the animalistic craze on the cops face, “I don’t see how you could harm me in your position. Maybe the drug or maybe……Billy.†He goaded. He knew holding these fears over the detective, he’d finally get somewhere. The dealer still wanted to push, enjoying the reaction. Even filled to the top with anger, Sonny's cop training saw the swift move of Fuente placing the bug. Agitation quickly took his mind off of what he saw and back onto the subject. “Oh I’ll get out of here, pal and I’ll track you down like a dog on the hunt. You…leave….MY SON out of this, along with Caroline!†He spat, hatred pouring from his voice, etched in his face. His eyes like daggers, slicing through Fuente. “You are protective of the people you love. I have to give you that. Very honorable, detective, but my hand can reach further than yours.†“God damn it, Fuente! You got me and my partner. You’ve almost got everything you want! What the hell more could you possibly need?!†The detective shot out. His inner voice told him to pull back. I played right into that sleaziod’s hands. I hate that he now has the upper hand and I allowed it. Would he do something to Billy, or and, Caroline? God help him if by some chance he does! I’d never forgive myself. I just can’t take that chance. Or, let him shoot me up with that shit! O.k. Crockett, you’re gonna have to calm down and make the playing field more level Still, playing his game isn’t the way to go, he gets the points and I lose ground. But maybe, just maybe, playing it a bit longer and he’ll believe I don’t have the money. And he’ll leave my family alone and not shoot me up. O.k., I’ll just get to the punch line to this sick joke. Doctor Lee entered with a syringe. His gaze went from the hanging cop to Fuente.Fuente turned to the Doctor, through peripheral vision he saw Crockett struggling a bit. He’d take this further. “Doctor Lee, please find a good vein on our friend here.†Tubbs watched, holding his breath and praying it wouldn’t happen. He had seen something quickly wash over his partner’s face, like a deer caught in headlights. Perhaps also, the look of someone who was about to be sick? He had seen his friend thinking, quieting down, but now that the doctor was climbing up on the step stool, Sonny was starting to crumble more. Sonny tried to push his bravado. He couldn’t, his anger and talk with himself were gone the minute he saw Lee climb up with the needle. What the Fuck? Is he playin’ with me, or is he really gonna do this? This fucker is goin’ down, whether he’s playin’ with me or not! Sonny felt sweat start to form on his forehead while he waited to see if Lee would shoot him up or not. He felt his arm being tied off. Nothing could stop his reaction. He started to thrash around, it was futile. “Once again, Crockett. Did you take any of my money?†Fuente asked, enjoying how he had made the tough cop falter with his game. He had studied the detective well, knew what to use in order to shake the Miami cop. It pleased him to watch Crockett lose his composure, and now, to watch the cop’s pointless struggle. Crockett felt the doctor tap on the vein and then registered the needle point touch it. He stilled himself, knowing if he moved the slightest bit, the needle would go in. The blond heard Fuente’s question. His breathing came in anxious pants when he answered the man. “FOR THE LAST GOD DAMNED TIME, NO, I NEVER TOOK YOUR MONEY!†The Southerner hated that the other man had heard the desperation in his panting voice while he shouted out his answer. Hated that Fuente had succeeded, he had under estimated the man, something he wouldn’t do again, if he got the chance. The whole time he thought, his good eye had been glued to the needle that lay on his vein. “I believe you. Doctor Lee, untie his arm,†The man ordered the doctor with a wave of his hand, “we don’t need the truth serum. My informants worked so much better.†An amused smile was aimed at Crockett and then Tubbs, “Yes, I believe you. My informants were right about how to get to you and it was rather enjoyable baiting you, watching your entire emotional state crumble,†Pleasure crossed the mans face while telling the detective what he had succeeded to do, “Just remember, if I need to use this again, it won’t be a tactic. It WILL, be real.†With the warning said, Fuente, Doctor Lee and Manny walked out of the room. ********************************************************** Sweat poured down Sonny’s face, his head lying against his chest and his breathing, slowing, while he calmed down. Tubbs watched the door close and then shot a look at his partner, who, to him, looked like hell. Taking in slow, deep breaths, the darker detective tried to calm down, too. He hadn’t realized how much stress had built up while watching what was happening and not able to do anything about it, for his partner. “You alright, partner?†How many times over the years had they asked one another that question? Assessing how the other was. Sonny felt embarrassed. He had played right into the dealer’s hands. He had known, told him self, yet, seeing the syringe and then feeling it, he’d lost control. That was one of the things he hated. Now he knew Fuente had counted on that very thing. Slowly his head came up, locking eyes with his partner. “Yeah, I’ll live. Just pisses me the fuck off that he knew how to play me. Rico, I knew it to a point, knew he was pushing my buttons. Damn it to hell, I hated handing the control over to him.†Sonny said in exasperation and shame. He sighed now that it was over and that he hadn’t been given the drug, glad Rico wasn’t hurt. But then again, when one of them hurt, the other took on some of the pain. “Sonny, don’t beat your self up. It could’ve been worse, if he injected you, then you would’ve been way out there, man. You’re only human. Face it; the man knew what to say and when to push. I’m just glad he didn’t give you the drug, and that Billy and Caroline are alright.†Rico hoped his partner was listening to him. He knew sometimes Crockett would just tune him out and then other times he’d consider what was said. “Yeah, you’re right,†Sonny breathed, “We have to take him down. He knows too much about me, too much about Billy and Caroline. And, …… I can’t be an informant.†The last part was said softly, in thought. “I know we have to take this dude down, but how? No weapons, nothing. I feel like a prisoner of war.†Rico stopped and looked over at his partner for a reaction at the term he had just used. “You’re right, man. Back in Nam, we had to do some strange things to get out of Charlie’s way. The ones, who didn’t, never made it back. I wasn’t one of ‘em, the ones who didn’t make it, and won’t be now. I’ll do whatever it takes to get out of this hell hole.†Crockett stated, getting his determination back. “I think I see James Sonny Crockett. Glad to have you back, buddy, was worried.†“Worried I’d lose it on ya?†“Maybe. Didn’t know with what was coming out of that dude’s mouth.†“I’m not gonna turn back into Burnett, although if I were, I wouldn’t have to worry about having scruples.†Sonny’s brow rose, a teasing smile etching his face. “Glad to hear I won’t be seeing Burnett. But Sonny, there ARE times you don’t have any scruples.†Rico chuckled, easing the air of any tension. “Yeah, well what can I say.†“That I’m right, of course.†“Maybe.†Sonny shot back at his friend, both snickering from years of this type of banter. They needed it to clear their minds. “I know we can figure something out on how to escape……..†Rico was cut off. “Rico!†Sonny locked eyes with his partner's as he suddenly remembered the bug that was planted. Tubbs saw something in the green eyes and knew, right away, not to say another word. He saw the Southerner move his eyes to a camera. Tubbs had forgotten they were there with all that had gone on. Then he watched Sonny rub his ear against his arm. Riiigggghttt he’s telling me that they’re listening. Good thing we can read each other so well. Damn, I almost forgot about those monitors with all the emotional turmoil we’d just gone through. And what I said before wasn’t much, they expect that, anyway. The detective nodded to his partner in understanding. Good, he got it. Glad we’re still in sync, even after all this time. Can’t have ‘em knowin’ what we’re up to. This works to our advantage, he’ll follow my lead, unless he comes up with somethin’ better and then I follow his. One way or another we’re out of here and soon. Well the little we did say isn’t much for them to go on. They would think some things up if we didn’t mention anything ‘bout gettin’ out of here. But they don’t have to know how. Hope this plan I’m forming comes together soon, ‘cause we’re gonna have to wing a lot of it. Crockett thought with determination. ********************************************************* Both detectives were surprised when the door to the room opened again, it had only been forty five minutes since Mario Fuente had left. Alex and Fernando moved towards Tubbs. “Rico, I never see Alex without Fernando, but then again, someone has to hold onto his leash.†Sonny sardonically remarked. Alex eyed the blond and started towards him, Fernando pulled him back, “Ignore the pig, he is only trying to get to you. We have orders to take this one to the boss’s partner.†“I see what you mean, Sonny,†Rico answered his partner and then glanced up at Fernando while the cuffs were unlocked and then his wrist were again cuffed behind his back, “So I get to meet this partner,†His eyes went back to Sonny, “Now I’m just dyin’ to know who this is.†Alex pushed Tubbs with the fatal mental object that pushed into the small of his back. “Have fun, partner. I’d like to know who this bozo is myself. Nice to see you both, again.†Sonny drawled mockingly. “Shut up, cerdo.†Fernando snapped. “Pig? Well ladies, I can think of better words for you. Maybe if you can read, y’all’d be able to fix on another word.†Sonny smiled sarcastically at them, getting the middle finger back when they left. He chuckled, seemed like the only fun he had was putting those bozos down. He looked at the empty bed and worry about his friend set in. He hoped that whoever this partner and supposed friend of Rico’s were wasn’t to close to his partner. He didn’t want Rico to hurt. He hated when any of his friends hurt, especially Rico, who’d been through the mill this last week or so.TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. CHAPTER 15 The henchman pushed Rico out into the passage way, a gun in his back. Rico made sure he looked around so he could file a mental picture of the area for his and Sonny’s escape. He saw to the left, at the end of the hallway, a door and in front of him a short dead end. Why would they walk this way? The door is the other way. Confusion, along with frustration filled the cop. He felt a tug his cuffs causing him to stop and feeling much like a dog on a leash. Turning to the wall, he watched in surprise when it opened, leading into another hallway. Quickly, looking the opposite way they were trying to make him move, he saw a large living area with sliding doors to the outside deck. The pushing got harder, moving the detective down the corridor, past several doors until they stopped him in front of one. Again he felt like that dog, or in his line of work, a prisoner, which was what he had become. The door was opened. He was pushed inside. “You’ll wait here. Mr. Fuente’s partner will be in soon. Don’t get any ideas cop, I’ll be right outside.†The henchman Tubbs knew as Juan told him before closing and locking the door. The room was small but airy. Tubbs took it all in. Light color adorned the walls where a few diminutive photos were strung. Under a porthole was a comfortable couch that leaned against one of the walls, a glass table lay in front of it. His eyes fell to the expensive shelf unit with pricey knick knacks and then to a desk that sat caddy cornered. An area rug covered the middle of the wooden floor. Tubbs sat at attention on the front lip of the couch, making sure he wouldn’t lean on his cuffs. He watched the clock while waiting impatiently for the mystery guest that knew him. The door opened, allowing a beautiful woman to enter. She stood starring at his stunned face. Tubbs mouth hung opened for a moment in disbelief at the pretty woman that stood across the room. “Rico.†She said softly, knowing the reaction her presence would get. Tubbs stood up, trying to push his shock away. “Val?†“Rico, I wanted to see you and explain. Not that you’ll remember this in another few days. I just needed to tell you……..†“Because of your guilt, I know.†He felt the shock wear off and anger slipped into its place. “Why are you doing this? How did you get involved with Mario Fluente?†His eyes flared up into hers. “Rico, please,†she raised her hands to quiet him, “I want to tell you. But, please know I love you and can’t live without you.†"Oh, that's rich, Val!" he growled angrily. "You drag me and Sonny out here to be brain washed --to become informants!" He stopped as if he could not believe the conversation was taking place. "And you love me?" His expression told her more than his words just how much she had betrayed him. “Please Rico, sit down and let me explain.†She didn’t go near him, choosing to sit on the edge of the desk. “Explain, I’m all ears.†The rage and sarcasm poured from his mouth. “I was burnt out on the force, you know that. When I got my job with The Ocean F Corporation I didn’t know it was one of Mario’s companies. I think he had me hand picked due to being a former cop and my involvement with you. I was working there for a few weeks when I got a message that the head of the corporation wanted to meet with me. That’s when I met Mario Fuente. He understood I knew who he was since I had been on a case of his in Vice at one time.†Valerie sighed, seeing Rico’s fury and bemusement. “Why didn’t you just leave? Why get yourself in this? You were a cop, damn it!†Rico’s voice rose. Valerie paced slowly, feeling his eyes on her, the eyes of her ex-lover. Dr. Lee would bring Rico back to her and they could be lovers again. How could she make Rico understand how she felt? She stopped pacing, with Dr. Lee she would not have to make him understand, there would be no need. Holding on to the thought she continued.“You just don’t understand.†“You know that’s right! What could make you turn?†The air in the cabin seemed to grow stale as he waited for her answers. “For so many years I WAS A COP. Never was I appreciated for my efforts in the end,†She quickly pivoted, looking into his eyes, “try to understand what I’m telling you and listen.†Tubbs couldn’t understand going bad, couldn’t understand how she’d lived with him and he hadn’t noticed, that only made him angrier. His eyes locked with hers before he sat back down. “Alright, finish.†He snapped out the statement. “You know I had to finally leave the force. Oh they let me go with some honor to it, but what the hell? That was just their painful excuse to get rid of me. So many years wasted; not enough sleep; getting shot at; going under for so long I didn’t even know who I was. And the worst thing was the pay; no hazard pay, and being a woman on the Force I earned even less than the male detectives! I felt like a horse put out to pasture.†Val shook her head at the feelings stirred by the memories. "Then I got this great job, with great pay. Sure, at first I wondered how I landed it. There were people more qualified out there. Like I already told you, Mario sent for me. And yes, I was shocked at first, but he asked me to hear him out and then it was up to me to quit or accept his offer"She ran her fingers through her long hair and her eyes pleaded for understanding. "The money, it was too good to turn down. I opened a different bank account so you wouldn't know. I...felt terrible about it, lying to you, looking over your shoulder and listening, knowing I was violating your trust." She shrugged. "I just figured it wouldn't last long and I'd have a nest egg." Her eyes caught fire and she clenched her hands. "But then, after awhile, I liked the feeling that the department that never really appreciated me was getting theirs."She made a placating gesture and he recoiled in disgust. "I never meant to hurt you in all of this. Please believe me. I love you." “You didn’t want to use me but you did. You knew if you were found out they’d assume I was in on it. It would be my ass in a sling. I’d go down with you and you call that love?†Rico spat, glaring at his former lover. “No, you’d never go down with me. I told you, the accounts and everything were all in my name. I’d have told them what really happened, Mario is too smart. Contacting him, I do that using a pay phone, untraceable,†Her brown eyes softened as she spoke and then continued, “Rico, I’ve known the man for a while now and he’s one of the smartest dealers I’ve ever met.†“Dealer, Val,†Rico stated incredulously, “he deals drugs to children, hooks them and adults,†He glared at her, “people die over what he does, people like your sister, Diane†“No, I was mad for a long time but realized it was Diane’s choice. Rico listen, in a few days this conversation won’t matter,†Thinking, her voice grew with resentment, “As for Sonny, he stands in our way. Your friendship with him prevents us from being the couple we should be." Valerie’s voice dripped with the loathing she felt for the man. Rico stood up fast, closing on her in three large steps. "I can't believe you'd do this to me, to Sonny! He went to the mat for you, Val. He wished us the best and you loathe him? I never knew the real you!" Valerie starred coolly at the defensive man, “Without him, we would still be together and maybe even be married. Who knows in a few months we just might be.†“You blame everything on Sonny. You did nothing, didn't lie to me and didn't do a thing. It was all Sonny." Tubbs hissed He’d never marry her. He had hoped they’d be able to have a friendship one day, but not now, not after this. She wasn’t the woman he had fallen in love with. She had changed, her thinking, distorted. He shook his head and walked over to the porthole and looked out it. For the first time in days he saw the dusky light of afternoon falling into evening. He took in a breath of fresh sea air, but that still didn’t quiet his emotions. He never thought she’d betray him, never thought she’d go to this length to get what she wanted. He stood there thinking about it all. “I love you, Rico. You may not realize that now but you will. You’ll see, we’ll be so happy together, I promise you that.†She knew he wouldn’t understand now, but they would be together, would be married. And Sonny Crockett would be in the past and never mentioned again. Rico glared at her in anger an amazement, “You’d better wake up from your fantasy world, woman!†He couldn’t believe the whole conversation. Hell, he hadn’t been happy with her for sometime. He and Sonny had to escape, had to do whatever it took. Suddenly he remembered Sonny telling him about the bugs planted all over the yacht. “Why put us in a room down in the hull?†“So no one would see you. By now Miami Vice is watching, I can feel it, I just don’t know how.†Valerie admitted. “And if they ARE watching, don’t you think they saw Sonny being brought aboard?†He challenged. “No, he was wrapped in a large heavy blanket. No one would have seen him. The blanket was taken off in the cabin before he was brought down to your room.†Rico tried to keep a cool head, he had to get a little more information for Duddy and Switeck to hear, “And down in that hull is where Lee is going to brain wash us?†Valerie looked at Rico. He was asking a lot of questions, being an ex-cop, she chalked it up to a detective’s curiosity, “No, we are leaving tonight for Mario’s Island. You’ll both be taken care of there. Then several days later you’ll both be dropped late at night in Miami. Neither of you will remember anything. They’ll suspect Mario but they won’t have any proof since both of you will lose time. It will be blank, like the days never happened. After a while it will go away and won’t bother you.†She explained. Rico turned around for her to see his arms, “They won’t see these track marks from the needles or the new ones?†He turned back to face Valerie, eyes burning for answers, “won’t find the chemicals that he used in our blood?†“Rico, please,†She saw the determination for answers in his eyes and sighed, “Ok. No, they won’t see track marks. The ones you have will be healed enough that only mere bruising will show, like someone held you to hard. No chemicals will be found in your bloodstream. Doctor Lee has other ways of brain washing which won’t show up in the blood. I don’t know how he does it so don’t ask me. And I don’t want to know. I was told it’s painless and very affective. The police will know you were abducted but since you won’t remember and there’s nothing in your bloodstream, it will be a case that can never be solved.†Rico’s face took on a dangerous look. He knew that his ex-lover could feel the daggers he shot at her. “How long Val? How long will this all take?†He hissed at her. Valerie took in a deep breath before she answered, “You’ve been here three days. We’ll be at the island very late tonight. Lee will start first thing in the morning. He’ll need three of four days depending on how strong the endurance is for the both of you. Then he’ll test you out, which should take another day or two. After that you’ll be dropped off in Miami, late. No one will be around; it will be a secluded area. You’ll both wake not knowing what happened or that so much time has passed. To you and Crockett it will be like the day after that party. You’ll both be confused but it will pass and you’ll come home to me. I just have to be patient.†Her face tilted, watching Rico take in everything she had said. Rico knew that Vice had enough on tape to get Mario and as much as it pained him, Valerie. Plus if they didn’t get out of this, the squad would know what happened and how to treat them. He couldn’t be around the woman he used to love anymore. It tore at his heart, the decision she had made. Pulling himself together, he put an end to the discussion, “Are we done talking?†the voice asked stoically. “I had hoped for a different ending to our talk, but I knew deep down it would be like this. So, yes, we’re done.†She turned walking toward the door and then stood facing it. Her voice gently breathed, “I do love you.†She then gave a knock. Juan opened the door letting Valerie out. A few minutes later Juan came back for Rico and led him back to the room in the hull. The thug cuffed Tubbs to the bed before he left. ********************************************************** The ship rocked slightly with the ocean waves. Noise from the undercover fishing crew could be heard. The machinery used to hoist up the nets, gave a low rumble down in the small make shift surveillance room. There were counters on each side, one side for equipment, the other for the officers. Between the two counters was a narrow space of floor where wheeled chairs sat. Sweat dripped down Switek while he sipped his drink and ate a sandwich. The four men sat on break, talking and letting Duddy listen through headphones. The conversation stopped abruptly when Duddy pulled off the head set. “Listen! They just brought up Tubbs and put him in a room. He’s waiting to see Fuente’s partner!†Steve excitedly shouted in order to get everyone’s attention. He unplugged the head set to allow the voices to be heard. “At least we know that Rico’s alright.†Stan commented shoving the last of his sandwich into his mouth. A creak of a door opening was heard, silence, and then a woman’s voice. “Anyone know that voice?†Steve asked, puzzled. “Wait.†Stan held up his hand to keep the room silent. “Who’s Val?†Sammy asked “Valerie Gordon, Rico’s ex-girlfriend.†Stan informed them. “What? That girl in New York he was seeing on and off for years and then just left? Sonny told me about her. But I thought she used to be a cop?†The questions rapidly rattled out of Joey’s mouth. “Shhhhh, she was. Ka-ching! Money talks--even if she was a cop!".†Stan quickly explained, trying to listen to the conversation. And then hearing he was right on that account. All five men listened intently to the conversation going on. Then Rico’s questions rattled off about what was going to happen to him and Sonny. Steve and Stan threw a fast look at one another and then went back to the clues they were getting. They heard the thug lead Rico out of the room. The men sat stunned, letting the information sink in before talking. “Sonny must have told Rico I bugged the yacht.†Steve told the other four. He swiveled the chair around in the tight quarters to look at the four officers. “Yeah, he let us know a great deal, where they’re being held, what that whacked out doctor is going to do and even got her to tell about the whole plan. Pretty smart, Tubbs.†Switek said the last part more to himself. “She said they were moving the yacht out tonight to an island. How are we going to follow them without blowing our cover?†Jorge asked sliding the wheeled chair over a bit to get his drink. “Well, I can’t use the system I put in the control panels to jam the position like we planned.†Duddy huffed at the waste of expensive machinery. “Duddy, stop worrying about losing your crap!†Switek snapped. He realized they had a big problem and needed to come up with some answers on how to handle this new setback. “Alright, geez…..†Duddy’s face suddenly lit up, “I might not be able to jam their position but I bet with a few adjustments I could control the panel to get them into US waters.†Steve’s face lit up with a smile that to anyone else might have looked crazy. But the rest of the team knew it was from the idea and how he could get this to work in their favor. Switek pushed at Duddy, “Come on, Duddy. What’s brewing in that crazy head?†Impatience could be heard. “Like I said I think with a little tweaking I could get the settings to look like something else, directing them into the US waters and then you can get on that boat. What’da ya think?†Steve gave and expectant look at Switek. “I think it’s worth a try. How long will it take you?†“Not long, about thirty minutes. Then when the boat starts moving out I’ll carefully control there readings. I can see what they can on the panel, well read the headings and just slowly reroute them to just over the line.†“Do it.†Switek ordered knowing Castillo would want it done. He’d have to go call the Lieutenant and get it confirmed and in the mean time they could figure out a plan or rescue, “we can form a plan after I get back from talking to the lieutenant.†“How far can we keep this ship away from them and still pick up transmission?†Joey asked in thought. “Told ya, a mile in a half, maybe, just maybe, two miles, but I’m not sure about that. I never tested it from that far of a distance.†Duddy scratched his head and then took out a pack of gum. He held it out and offered a stick to the officers. After getting it back he pulled one out for himself. He quickly unwrapped it and then shoved the gum into his mouth. “Don’t think we have a choice here. I think we’ll have to follow them out and hope for the best. I’m going to make that call to Castillo and let him know, see what he says.†Stan stood up, eyeing the others. Hardin stood to block Switek’s way, “We have to get them off that boat! We can’t let Fuente get to his island!†The words were heaved out in desperation. He couldn’t think of Rico, and especially Sonny, going through the brain washing. He tried not to show how much it terrified him. Stan lay a gentle hand on the younger cop, “Joey, we’ll do what we can. We already have part of a plan and we’ll figure out the rest. But Rico did a very smart thing. He let us know what was going to happen, how long it would take before they’d be dropped off and what to expect. Knowing Rico he did it for two reasons,†his voice softened even more with reassurance, knowing Hardin’s fears. The same fears he had and knew the others would have, “he had Val tell us and admit the players so we have the evidence. He also let us know just in case we couldn’t get to them or they couldn’t get out. We now know what we’re up against and will be able to help them if it goes down that way. Ok, Joey?†His eyes latched onto Hardin’s. He saw the young man nod before moving out of Switek’s way and allowing him to leave. “He’s right, Joe.†Jorge told his partner. “Yeah, I know. I just hate feeling so helpless. We’re cops, damn it.†Joey groused. Joey sat back down feeling overwhelmingly powerless. He knew they’d try to form a plan that might or might not work. Sonny was like a brother to him and there was nothing he could do but sit there and hope they could work something out. He knew being a cop there was always these dangers, but he couldn’t help but feel how unfair this all was. Sonny had just come back to the Force. He thought about how several years ago his friend had gone through that Burnett fiasco. Then he thought about Tubbs and, how horrible it had to be, betrayed by his ex-lover and an ex-cop. He was shaken out of his reverie, surprisingly by Duddy. “Don’t worry so much. I’ve known Crockett for a long time and they’ll get out, he’s too damn stubborn not to try at least. Or you guys can come up with a plan to get to them and arrest Feunte, this Doctor and that bitch, Val. So just be ready.†With that said, Steve turned back to the machinery, knowing he said what the others were thinking about this Valerie. “Gotta have faith, Joey, we all do.†Sammy echoed the positive thoughts, trying to believe them himself. Hardin let out a deep sigh, “Guess we’ll have to wait and see what the Lieutenant says. And see what we can come up with.†He took out the night scope while they all waited for Switek to come back with news. He figured at this point they’d have to wait at least until night fall. Time never dragged so slowly he thought while he busied himself with checking his gun.**********************************************************Sonny’s eyes saw the misery on his partner’s face. He knew it wasn’t good. He waited, watching Rico absorb what he had just gone through. Not willing to wait anymore, he asked the question that was on his mind. “You ok, partner? You don’t look so good.†Crockett gave an opening, hoping Tubbs would tell him without further prying. “No, I’m not ok,†the angry voice came back, “I saw who betrayed me.†Tubbs knew Crockett wanted to know the name. He’d tell him, it would be expected from those listening and he wondered if one of those were Valerie. He’d keep conversation to a minimum, not wanting to give anything away. With a look, he knew Crockett would understand some of what went on, without letting Fuente know about the bugs and giving Duddy and Swi, the information they needed. Sonny didn’t like the long quiet. He wanted to know as much as they could get away with, since they were being monitored. “Who?†Sonny’s voice filled the silent room. :â€I was shocked to say the least, man,†Rico took in a shuddered breath before finishing. Just the thought of saying her name and what she did sickened him, “Valerie†Was the only word that slipped by his lips. “What?†Sonny’s voice rose with disbelief, “as in Valerie Gordon?†“The one and the only.†Rico spat out in disgust. “You’re kidding, right?†Sonny knew he wasn’t. He needed to hear again the answer to his question. “I wish I was, partner. She sold us out and blames you for me breaking things off with her.†He told his friend. Mild anger still dripped from his voice along with shock of the betrayal. “Oh man, Rico, I’m sorry. It’s not important why she blames me, but she was a cop.†Sonny’s voice lowered in surprise. He always felt there was no room in the world for a bad cop, or bad ex-cop changing sides. “Yeah……….Money’s better on this side of the fence it seems.†Rico locked eyes with Sonny knowing that his partner could read some of what was going on in his head. Sonny saw the hazel eyes of his friend. He didn’t know everything that was in them--but he recognized the expression and it gelled with their combined knowledge. They had to get out of there. He suddenly realized why the partner wanted to keep Rico alive. She must want him back, and that’s why our friendship will be forgotten. Damn! His thoughts whirled around the ingenious plan and then landed on the sick woman who wanted his friend anyway she could get him. He felt almost as sick as Rico. Another look and he knew Rico was also searching for a plan to escape this madness. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. CHAPTER 16 Sonny didn’t know how long he’d been hanging from the hook attached to the ceiling. Wiggling his fingers and trying to get a little circulation didn’t work. He had to do something soon, the blood had been cut off long enough for his hands to grow numb, swell and feel like ice. His wrists burned from the cutting of the ropes. He was also having trouble holding himself up to take the pressure away from his shoulders. He saw the camera monitor turning slowly towards Rico. His eyes caught his partner’s and glanced up to his hands. They were getting worse from the bondage. The camera moved back, Sonny’s head hung so low, his chin rested on his chest. He saw Rico nod, from his peripheral vision. Through their connection, he knew that Rico understood what he was about to do. The boat had started to move and it was time to work on their escape. Each time the camera moved to Rico, Sonny would pull up and try to get the rope over the hook. His hands being so numb slowed him down, making him angry and more determined. Tubbs made sure not to be obvious while he watched his partner try several times to slide the rope off the hook. He knew that Crockett’s hands were in bad shape, they were swollen and turning purple, he figured they hurt along with his knee, rib and shoulders. While Crockett worked on freedom, Tubbs worked on the plan that had been forming. He knew they always played off of one another and that Crockett would follow his lead. The rope finally off the hook, Sonny placed his hands in a way that looked like he was still hanging from it. Circulation was little as he flexed his fingers, one hand at a time. The pain made it awkward to keep his grip. Being stubborn, he refused to let go. He knew Rico saw that he was free. Now he hoped his partner would initiate their escape. **********************************************************Gina paced back and forth making Trudy tired from just watching her. They were in the conference room listening to Stan and the surveillance team. Julie and Tanya had been radioed to come back in, orders from Castillo. They now knew that Crockett and Tubbs were on the yacht. Trudy finally couldn’t take it anymore, “Damn girl, would you stop pacing, you’re starting to remind me of Sonny. Plus, you’re making me tired.†Her head cocked, she stared at her partner. The comment was playful but stern. Gina gave a loud sigh and sat on the edge of the table, “Sorry, I can’t help it. I still can’t believe that Valerie is part of all this. Honestly, I would never have thought.†“Sweetie it takes all kinds and we all know how burnt out she was. Look at the times she came down here and what she did, and even what she did up in New York. Poor Rico, I feel for that man,†Trudy placed her hands on her hips, “a fine man like Rico and she does him like that. I’m glad he left her.†Gina shook her head in amazement, “I know. Rico must be so hurt. And for her to blame Sonny of all people! He helped her with all that happened with Diane. He only wanted them to be happy and she wanted him dead?†Her voice drew in an angry breath, “I’m just glad that Fuente isn’t going to do that, it buys them more time.†Trudy nodded, feeling the same anger towards Valerie,â€I just hope that Castillo comes up with a plan to get the guys off Fuente’s yacht.†“Maybe Duddy’s idea will work. You know, about leading them into US waters but the controls say they’re still on the right heading?†Gina said hopefully. “Well it’s either that or Rico and Sonny’ll have to make their own escape. Something has to give. But don’t worry, they’ll be alright.†Trudy moved next to Gina and rubbed her back. “Yeah, they have to be.†Both women looked towards the doors when Tanya Lewis and Julie Parish came through in a bustle. “Why is it that the women of this squad are just sitting around now that we know the guys ARE on that yacht?†Julie irritably asked. “You know how it is. We were focusing on the other warehouses and now all the guys are on that boat. They don’t need us to help, and, it does get frustrating at times.†Tanya shook her head and then greeted the other two female officers, “Anything new?†Joplin filled the two detectives in on the latest news they’d heard. “I hope that Sonny is alright. I don’t know much about this Valerie Gordon. I can certainly see now, why Rico left her.†Julie groaned and then went to pour some coffee for her and Tanya. “I just wish there was something we could do besides sit here,†Tanya’s voice raised a pitch, “I feel so damn helpless. We should be out there too.†Trudy felt like the mother hen calming down her chicks. “We just have to stay here. You never know what they might need. I feel useless too but that’s how the cards were dealt. So just calm down ladies.†“Easy for you to say, you’ve been at this longer. How do you stand the waiting and wondering if your co-workers – friends -- are going to be alright?†Julie asked and then took a sip of the hot muddy coffee. “I don’t think you ever totally get used to it. You take it as if comes, do what you can and pray that they’ll be alright.†Trudy placed a hand on Julie’s shoulder. “Guess that’s what I have to get used to. I hate feeling this fear.†Gina got up and walked to the radio, “When you stop feeling that fear, that’s when you get in trouble.†The words were meant to be gentle, only to come out stronger than she had intended, “I’m gonna call Stan and see if there’s any more news.†“Yeah, do that. I hope it’s better than before.†Tanya sat down, resting her legs on another chair. ********************************************************** Switek picked up the radio when he heard Calabrese’s voice, “Yeah Gina?†Low static underlined the detective’s voice when she answered back. “Any more news, Stan?†“Boat’s moving and Miami Steve is playing video games with their readings.†He joked, trying to alleviate any fears. “Great, tell him to rack up the points and keep us filled in.†“Will do, Gina.†Stan took his thumb off the radio and laid it back on the counter. ********************************************************* Rico waited until the camera faced him. He wanted to make sure whoever was watching could see the expression on his face. “You’d think being watched you could get someone down here to take me to the head!†He complained angrily. “Gotta go, pal? Well at least you’re using the right nautical terms, thought you forgot ‘em, New York.†Sonny teased, feeding into Rico’s complaint. “What the hell do they care if I use the right term? Or, if I wet the bed like a damn kid!†His voice raised in fury. “Now now partner, you can hold it.†Sonny chastised. “The hell with that! I haven’t gone in a long time; I’m not a water tower! You understand me? I – have -- to- GO!†He yelled up at the camera. The camera seemed to focus longer on Tubbs as he complained. A few minutes later the door was unlocked letting Manny into the room, a Mac 10 in his hand. The henchman walked slowly over to Rico. He stuck the gun to the cop’s head and then took the key to unlock the cuffs. Manny then re-cuffed Tubbs hands in front and pushed him to the toilet with the muzzle of the gun. The room was small. Tubbs knew there were no cameras and the outside camera couldn’t see in. He spread his feet apart just enough to help him; he hadn’t turned to the toilet yet. Suddenly he doubled over coughing hard. “What is your problem? Get up.†Manny pushed Rico with the gun. Rico coughed harder, doubling over more. He knew since the cuffs were on him he’d have to use both hands like one. He saw Manny moving closer to investigate the problem. “What is wrong with you?†Manny bent down to see the problem. Tubbs saw the thug bend over. He swung both hands to the right, the momentum allowing his right elbow to come up hard into the thug’s stomach. He heard the man make a noise and stumble back. Tubbs didn’t waste anytime; he pivoted on his feet and kicked the gun out of the Manny’s slack fingers. Then he grabbed hair with both of his hands. He rammed the henchman’s head into the wall a few times, hard. He watched as the man fell unconscious to the floor. Tubbs kicked the gun to the side, knelt down to get the key out of the man’s pocket. Taking the key, he worked as fast as he could. Being cuffed it was hard to maneuver the key. He eventually got it in, unlocked the cuffs and took them off. He rubbed his wrists for a second and then cuffed the man’s one wrist and then closed the other cuff around a think pipe. He then grabbed the Mac 10. **********************************************************Juan had come into the room a few minutes after Manny had taken Tubbs to the toilet. Crockett was ready. He waited as Juan walked in, the profile lined up with his front. Crockett jumped down, knocking them both to the floor. He made sure his knees pushed into the man’s back, protecting the bad one. Being pushed to the floor jarred the gun from Juan’s hand. Crockett climbed up the man, trying to keep him from the gun. He used his weight to keep Juan flat on his stomach. Juan’s hand reached out for his weapon. His head bobbed up to see the gun, finger tips almost reached it. Crockett surprised him by sliding the rope from between his hands, over Juan’s face and down to his throat. The pain shooting through him drove Crockett harder. He pulled the rope back on the man’s throat and then pulled his hands tightly together. The rope dug in with a deeper hold. Crockett heard the gasp from air being cut off. Soon the man went limp, his windpipe crushed. Crockett brought his one hand down to check for a pulse, there was none.********************************************************** Tubbs came out to see Crockett grabbing the dead man’s gun. “You ok, partner?†“Yeah, just the damn knee and rib.†They both heard footsteps racing down hall to the room. “Second quarter, pal.†Crockett warned. He slid further down to the floor, took Juan’s dead body and used it for protection. There wasn’t much else he could use. Tubbs dove under the bed and saw the door crash open bringing in two more armed guards. He recognized them as Fernando and Alex. Tubbs rapidly fired at Fernando, he fell to the ground. Alex, caught off guard, turned for a second to see what happened. Crockett took that second, dropped Juan’s body and fired off three shots. Alex went down beside his friend, all dead. “Told ya we’d dance.†Sonny snarled at Alex’s dead body. Rico crawled out from under the bed and watched as Sonny pulled himself back up, using the bed post. He could see Sonny had a problem using his hands when he got up. He knew they were as bad as Sonny’s knee and rib. He also knew his partner and how he’d push down the pain the best he could in order to get them out. He’d seen Crockett do it before. “Think we better move.†Tubbs mentioned, picking up the other two guns and throwing one to Crockett, “now we’re more evenly matched, two guns each.†“Yeah.†Crockett agreed in a husky voice that masked the pain. Christ, his hands were a mess. He didn’t like the problem he had shooting Alex. And, that was a clean, easy shot, he thought. The burning continued while he kept flexing his fingers and moving his wrists in order to get the blood to flow. The ropes where holding him back and he had enough to deal with, he’d have to get them off, quickly. Crockett’s rib and knee throbbed explosively threw him. The burning continued in his fingers and hands, while he kept flexing them and moving his wrists. He had to try no matter how uncomfortable, to get some blood flow. The ropes also needed to be removed, and quickly, he didn’t need them to hold him further back. Still, he wouldn’t let any of this stop him and limped to the door. Tubbs followed closely. He watched the heavy limp and hoped Crockett wouldn’t be slowed down too much by it and catch a bullet. Once out in the hallway they looked back and forth. “They took me to the wall,†Rico pointed, “the door is over there, and it’s locked from outside but not from in here.†Sonny shook his head, “They’ll be waitin’ for us that way.†He turned and started limping towards the door at the end of the hallway. The lock could be heard as the two were almost at the entrance. “Sounds like their right behind us, what’s in there?†Rico asked, looking down the hall and then back to Sonny. “Figure it’s an engine room.†“Ok, so what’s the plan?†Sonny gave a quick look over his shoulder, “We punt it.†“What?†Rico asked in confusion. Sonny gave a slightly annoyed look. He opened the engine room and they both stepped in, “We make it up as we go along.†He hissed from the pain and then locked the door, “Help me push this cabinet in front of the door.†Together they pushed, Sonny relying on his good leg, favoring the bad one. The heavy cabinet scrapped the floor until it was where they wanted it. With the door blocked it would allow them a few minutes to come up with a plan. TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIMEBY SUE MCNIECE Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. CHAPTER 17 The door was secure and would give them a few minutes to think before it came crashing down with bullets raining over them. Sonny met Rico’s eyes, “That should hold them for about five minutes, its heavy enough.†“Five minutes to do what?†Rico felt trapped as he asked. He looked at Sonny and then around the small engine room, trying to think of an idea. “Rico stop. I have an idea, don’t worry.†Sonny tried to calm his friend down. He needed to cut the rope so he could use his two hands and had an idea about their escape, “First, I need to separate my hands so I can use both of them. I still can’t shoot right, but can keep a rapid fire going and hopefully hit a few of them. But first help me find something to cut this rope.†Sonny and Rico quickly looked around. Rico saw something and raced over to it. He turned to Sonny. “Over here, a tool box.†“What?†Sonny asked, not able to hear over the loudness of the heavy rocking cabinet and door. “Here, over here!†Rico motioned for Sonny. Sonny came to stand next to his kneeling friend, a small smile on his face. “A tool box. Of course they’d have one in the engine room. I’m beginning to feel our luck is changing.†Sonny stated. “Yeah,†Rico lifted the metal box, opened it and dug through the tools, “Here, a small saw with small teeth, should do it. Spread your hands apart and make the rope tight, put your hands on the table,“ Rico watched as Sonny complied. “You’re not going to cut my hands off are you?†Sonny asked, half teasing to calm them both down, “I remember how good you were with tools on the Vitus.†Sonny quipped. “You want freedom or not?†Tubbs countered. “Go ahead, but BE CAREFUL.†He warned. Rico started working on the middle of the rope, “We need to do something.†He said anxiously as the threads of the rope started to break away. Sonny watched for a second and then glanced around the small room. “There, the ropes cut, now what?†Rico asked while he threw the saw back into the box. “Thanks,†Sonny told his partner. He put his arm around Rico’s shoulder, leaning against him so he could move faster. He brought Rico to a hatchway. The metal hatchway led upward with a ladder attached to one side of its wall. Rico looked bemused at his friend, “What’s this and how’s it going to help?†He ducked into it and looked up. The crashing against the door and, the cabinet moving, had them both look over and then back to the ladder. “We don’t have much time. You have more mobility than I do and at this point can shoot better.†“Ok?†Rico said the question slowly, not catching on to what they were going to do. He hated when he didn’t understand. Usually they knew right away what the other was planning. Oh he knew he’d have to climb up there and that the hatchway would shelter them from the fire of bullets, but it would also trap them, “We’ll be trapped.†Rico finished his thought out loud. “No, no we won’t. Climb to the top, it leads to the bridge; they use this as a way to get down or up incase of an emergency. I think this qualifies as an emergency,†Sonny stated before he finished his plan, “The top opens and slides. Keep the muzzle of your gun pointed up, they’ll be waiting for you where it opens. Gently slide it open and shoot. Then fire away until it’s clear. The floor board’s a little protection but not enough against all those bullets,†Sonny pushed Rico to the ladder, “Go, I'll climb up and provide cover fire--rapid fire, then once around. The hatchway will shield me unless they get too close. Reckon I’ll have to make it count. They’ll have to be careful since we're close to the engine. One stray shot and we all end up fried.†Sonny pushed again at Rico who then climbed up the ladder, he now understood exactly where Sonny was going with his thoughts. “You sure you can hold yourself up here and fire?†Rico asked with concern. “Yeah, yeah, don’t worry about me, just clear out the bridge. I’ll lean against the ladder rung and prop my foot on the other wall, my bad leg I’ll keep tucked on the rung under me,†Sonny started slowly up the ladder, pain shooting throughout his body. He grunted softly but didn’t let up. Rico was almost to the top. Sonny positioned himself and then looked up at Rico, “If something happens to me just keep going. Remember, it’s all bugged up there and Vice can hear you.†He stressed. Rico gave Sonny a hard look, “We’ve done things like this before. You aren’t going to get shot. You better not. You hear me Crockett!†He scrutinized his partner. “Yeah, I hear you, Rico. Just do it and be careful partner.†Sonny gave Rico one of the smiles he always used to before they went into a fight. He felt his adrenalin kick into a higher gear and saw it on Rico’s face too. “You too, partner. Just like old times.†Rico’s voice quietly carried down to Sonny. “Yeah, just like old times.†Sonny answered. They nodded at each other like they used to when both were ready to get down to the business at hand. *********************************************************The cabinet crashed to the floor making an earsplitting sound when it hit. Two gun men entered. They looked around. Sonny dipped his head out quickly, saw them looking and fired in a rapid motion that killed one of the guards. The other one dove behind the cabinet for cover. Now the guard knew where he was, Sonny thought. Still there’s only one guard. A voice filled his head, “Ever think there’s a bullet out there with your name on it, Sonny?†Damn you Evan! But the memory could be right, he thought for a split second. Sonny pushed back the fret and went with the flow of the adrenalin rush. **********************************************************Tubbs quietly and slowly opened the ceiling panel just slightly, with the gun muzzle pointed straight up. Sonny’s warning turn out to be right. A gunman was standing right at the floor board, without hesitation, Rico shot and killed the man. Sonny heard the shot just like Rico had heard the rapid firing below him. “You alright?†Sonny asked, not taking his attention from the hidden guard. “Yeah, just feel like an Oreo.†Rico answered, and gave it a minute to see if anymore gunmen would come to the opening before he made his next move. “An Oreo?†Sonny answered half in concentration and half confused by how his partner answered. “Yeah, like an Oreo,†Rico answered with slight annoyance, watching above him, “We’re in the middle, targets. Below and above us are OUR targets. Get it?†He huffed. Sonny thought about it. Like the commercial where the cookie would be taken apart and the middle eaten, “Hell, we ain’t gonna be eaten, they are!†Sonny’s voice seethed. ********************************************************** Rico slid the board a little more. He poked his head up for a quick search around and then lowered it as fast as a rabbit ducking back into its hole. The spray of bullets bounced all around him, one ripping half way through the board. There were two more men and the captain. He knew their position, turned and slid the floor board, hard, in the direction of the other two men. Caught off guard, the board hit the one gunman’s feet, knocking him down to the floor, his gun sliding away from him. Tubbs popped up and fired away, bringing down the other stunted guard and the captain. Rico climbed out onto the bridge. He saw the guard who had fallen grab the gun and started shooting. Tubbs dropped and rolled out of the line of fire. A bullet whizzed passed his ear, to close, he thought. Turning over he fired, but missed. He crawled under the already shot up panel, wires hung, sparks snapped and crackled. He moved away from them. The guard had Tubbs in sight, ready to shoot. He had to think fast or he’d be dead. **********************************************************Sonny saw the gunman peek up, he couldn’t get a clean shot with his fingers and hands the way they were. He silently cursed, if his hands had been alright it would have been a fast, easy shot. He knew the direction the man was going and fired when the man dove behind the engines. Sonny knew that the engines were in the way and would make it a dangerous shot. He also knew that the man was counting on that. He fired above the man to lore him out, just long enough, he hoped. That’s when Sonny realized the gas line had been nicked by a passing bullet. The tear was small. Still, drops of fuel leaked onto the floor. Shit! If I shoot and the sparks hit the small puddle it will start a fire, won’t blow right away, but we won’t have much time to get off this tub, he thought. And then quickly went over every scenario.There’s no way around this, either my shot or his, will set it off, but the puddle is still small and away from the main fuel tanks. It’ll take time to blow. Damn it! Ok, we can get off and swim. We’ll have time or at least Rico will with how slowly I’m moving, maybe both of us. Time for a blitz! Sonny knew what he had to do and then, no matter what, he’d have to get him and Rico off the boat. There would be time, but not much, so it would have to be quick. Sonny fired again to draw the man out. When the man came back to fire Sonny was ready. He swiveled his shots killing the man. He noticed the smell of not only gas now, but of smoke. He dropped the empty gun to the floor and held up the other one that didn’t have many bullets left. He then pulled himself hard, up the ladder and towards the bridge. ********************************************************** Tubbs saw the finger start to move on the trigger and knew he’d never get a shot off in time or move fast enough to escape. Suddenly the man fell sideways, blood pouring out, pooling around his head. Tubbs was shocked and then turned to see Crockett. His gun was positioned against the lip of the floor to help him with the shot that saved Tubbs. “C’mon, Tubbs! Help me out of this rabbit hole. This tubs gonna blow. Gas line is leaking and it won’t take long!†Crockett exclaimed, â€You can thank me later.†Crockett nodded to the guard he had just killed. Tubbs was already grabbing Crockett’s hand and helped pull him out onto the bridge. “Like what you’ve done with the place.†Crockett cracked, taking a quick look around at the four dead men and the mangled equipment. He limped toward the ladder that led down to the open deck and their way into the ocean. “Yeah, thought Fuente needed some changes.†Tubbs answered back, “How we getting off this thing?†“Down the ladder, you on one side and me on the other. We’ll slide. Gravity will pull me down faster than I could reach the deck on my own. Besides, there might be more of them. You shoot from one side and I’ll shoot from the other. Got enough bullets left?†Sonny explained and then asked. “No.†Tubbs answered and then dropped his gun and picked up the two lying on the ground, “Figure you’re low on bullets too.†Both men checked the clips and saw most of the bullets were there. They stepped to the ladder, the smoke already rising up into the bridge. There was a noise, the sound of an engine starting in a smaller boat. Tubbs raced to the side window. “Damn it, it’s Fuente, Lee and Val! They’re getting away!†Rico gave an angry shout. “Only Fuente,†Sonny growled before returning his attention back to their situation, “C’mon, we don’t have time for this. We don’t want them to live and us to die!†Sonny spoke louder. Not getting Rico’s full attention he shouted a command, “Let’s Go!†The command in Sonny’s voice brought Rico back from his reverie. He couldn’t believe Fuente, Lee and Val would get away after all of this. He felt Sonny grab his bicep and pull him towards the ladder. Rico took one end of the ladder’s pole and waited for Sonny to do the same with the other side. Both faced their guns towards the large room off the deck. “Ready, partner?†Rico asked. “Time for the final quarter.†Sonny answered.**********************************************************The surveillance team was glad they could finally hear what was happening on the yacht. They listened intently. Duddy told them it was all coming from the bridge area. They continued to hear all the bullets that showered the room. “I knew they’d do it!†Hardin shouted with enthusiasm along with the rest of the team. “Sounds like they finished them all off. Duddy get on the horn with Castillo, tell him Fuente, Lee and Gordon are getting away. He’ll get the waiting Coast Guard to pick ‘em up. Hardin, sounds like Tubbs and Crockett need our help. That ships going to blow so steer wide enough around her.†Stan called off orders. “Stan, I know enough to keep away from an explosion.†Joey huffed before he hurried by to get to the Scarab. “Fine, Joe. Sammy, Jorge let’s go. Duddy get on the horn, NOW!†Stan snapped before following the others to the fastest boat they had. The Scarab Sonny had used for years and was now Joey’s. ********************************************************** Rico and Sonny slid down the ladder, the best they could. They were ready to shoot, but found no one in sight. Rico was on the deck, Sonny came down landing on one foot. They both took a second look just to be sure before they worked on getting off the yacht. Rico watched Sonny limp over to the other side and open a compartment. He watched curiously as his partner took out two life vests. The floats on the vests were in sections. Rico knew that it was for safety, incase one section didn’t work the other sections would take over to keep the person afloat. He also saw Sonny pull out a water proof bag. He remembered from years ago, it was a flare gun pouch. He took the life vest from Sonny and slid into it and then helped Sonny slide the pouch onto his vest belt. “You go first Sonny, I’ll help you, push you off and then I’ll jump.†“Sounds good…..wait, the bugs.†Sonny turned away from the ocean, the smoke was getting worse and he noticed fire from the windows on the lower aft deck, “Hardin, get your ass in that boat and come get us! Make sure you give this tub a wide berth; it’s on fire and gonna blow! Have Castillo call the Coast Guard, Fuente, Lee and Gordon got away. Have ‘em picked up!†Sonny yelled as loud as he could, “Ok, time to go.†Rico helped Sonny up on the landing. “I’m gonna give you a real good push, partner.†“Don’t worry, I might not have the use of the one leg but have enough use of my hands, arms and the other leg. Just swim fast Rico and dive in right after me.†Sonny had just finished what he had to say when Rico gave him a powerful push. Sonny’s push turned into a dive. He then started to swim as quickly as he could, while Rico dove in after him. They cut through the surge of waves, trying to get as far away from the yacht as they could. Rico wasn’t a good swimmer but he was doing fine. Funny he thought, having his life depend on swimming had him pushing through the waves, quickly. Usually Sonny would be ahead of him. He kept swimming while he turned his head worried to see where his partner was. Rico saw that even though the leg slowed Sonny down he was cutting through the waves with a swimmers stroke. Rico recognized it from watching swim meets at college and from the Olympics. He figured Sonny’s life vest was tight enough to help with the rib and kept moving his distance from the yacht. Sonny struggled, cupping the water with powerful strokes, he couldn’t let up. They had to get as far away as possible. He was glad that Rico was ahead and moving swiftly. He had kept his face in the water letting the wave wash over him. He noticed Rico was doing the same except when he turned to see where Sonny was. Sonny took a quick look at the yacht in the distance and saw the fire had spread all over the boat. He couldn’t yell to Rico, he wouldn’t be heard and knew the boat was about to blow. He pushed himself more, trying to get closer to Rico. ********************************************************** Joey steered the Scarab through the ocean, giving it a wide berth from the distant yacht. Stan held a search light on the water ahead of the boat, in order to see Rico and Sonny in the water. They saw the burning ship and watched it go up like a huge fireworks display on the fourth of July. The explosion echoed loudly over the ocean. Joey held onto the wheel and he and Stan braced them selves against the seat. Sammy and Jorge held on, seated in the back bench. The boat shook violently from the power of the detonation. The waves grew bigger from the blast, hitting the sides of the boat and spilling over. “Damn, my ears are still ringing.†Stan yelled. “I hope Sonny and Rico can body surf over those waves. Look at everything flying around. I’m glad we’re far enough away so nothing hits us.†Sammy yelled to be heard. “I just hope they’re alright! Stan, I slowed the boat, can you shine the search light again? I don’t see them!†Joey’s voice was filled with alarm. “Calm down, Hardin. You need to concentrate on finding them, being rattled wouldn’t help.†Switek reminded, he was in charge and had to keep them focused, even though he too felt worried and couldn’t show it. Sonny and Castillo had taught him that. He looked over to see the nod that Hardin gave him. The radio on Switek’s belt suddenly came to life. He pulled it off with his free hand, his other hand still shining the light in the water. The bigger waves still rocked the boat which made it hard to hold the light steady and use the radio. “Yeah!†Stan shouted, his ears still ringing. “Called Castillo, he’s calling the Coast Guard cutter that’s out there to pick those three clowns up. Hey, Sonny yelled to us after you all left. He said, and I quote: Hardin, get your ass in that boat and come get us! Make sure you give this tub a wide berth, it’s on fire and gonna blow! Have Castillo call the Coast Guard, Fuente, Lee and Gordon got away. Have ‘em picked up! Unqote.†The sweep chuckled, “Guess he didn’t realize we could hear them so clearly.†Switek pushed the button down to answer, “Sounds like Sonny. They did get off, right?†He asked nervously, knowing six eyes were staring at him and waiting for an answer from Duddy. “Yeah, Sonny’s hurt, think it’s his leg ‘cause Rico had to push him off. Wait, Stan.†The contact was lost with Duddy for a few seconds. Static was heard before the voice came back, “Was your Lieutenant. He isn’t very talkative is he?†Duddy asked with amusement. “Cut the crap, Steve. What’d he say?†Stan almost growled into the radio to hear what Castillo had said. “Oh yeah, he said that the Coast Guard Cutter got the boat with Fuente, Lee and Gordon. Guess they’re on way down to that lovely hotel called Metro.†Duddy laughed. “Riiiigggghhhhtttt, keep us posted. We’re still looking for Sonny and Rico.†Stan’s anxious and aggravated voice told them all he was done with the chatter that had started to annoy them all. “He can be a big help but at the same time a pain in the ass.†Sammy yelled up to Stan. “You noticed.†Stan answered flatly. “I know how to drive this damn boat. Why is it you and Crockett think you need to tell me to keep a wide berth?†Hardin stated with exasperation. “Joey, just making sure, so cool your jets and concentrate on finding Crockett and Tubbs.†Stan told the younger man before reminding them all that Sonny and Rico were still missing. “Dios, I hope they survived the explosion. Along with all that shit flying around and these huge waves.†Jorge worried out loud. The other men tensed up knowing Jorge spoke the truth none of them want to think about.TBC

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THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIME BY SUE MCNIECEDisclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. CHAPTER 18 The ocean waves had both detectives bobbing up and down as they swam. Sonny found he’d gotten closer to Rico. His head turned to follow what his partner was looking at. The yacht, it was about to blow. The hungry fire ate away at the ship, flames turning colors depending on what it was devouring. Smoke billowed into the air, if he were on dry land it would have been like watching and smelling a tremendous bond fire. After staring for a second, Rico and Sonny looked at one another, both registering that the yacht was about to blow. “Rico, it’s gonna blow. Get under the water as much as you can. Things are gonna fly!†Sonny yelled to be heard over the wind and water. “Gonna be bigger than the fireworks in Naw Yark on the Hudson!†Rico commented more to himself but loud enough for his partner to hear. He knew Sonny wouldn’t understand, never seeing the Fourth of July display like he had. They both started to swim again. Suddenly there was a rumble letting them know it was time to take deep breaths and duck under the water. The vests wouldn’t allow them to go deep enough for more protection. They drifted curled up in a ball to shield themselves the best they could. Even under the water the thunderous explosion could be heard. The water shook like an earthquake, waves joined together in huge swells nearly choking Tubbs and Crockett when they came up for air. Their backs faced against the wall of water that either broke over them or carried them along. Salt water burned their eyes, choked them when it pulled their bodies under and poured over their faces. Like Roman candles, pieces of the boat flew, making trails behind the burning objects. Most fell short of the two, sizzling out when hitting the sea. Some flew past them, splashing huge droplets. Rico and Sonny stayed in place not knowing where the debris would fall. A sharp piece of wreckage skidded across the water, up over a wave and across Sonny’s vest before it hit his head. “Damn it!†Crockett yelled. He had seen it coming, tried to get under the water. The fragmented wood ran its pointed edges over the vest, deflating a section, slowed down and, smacked his head before it fell into the bottomless water. “You ok, partner!†Rico screamed to be heard. He saw Sonny floating. The back section of the vest was flat. Only the front section held his partner up. “Yeah!†Crockett shouted over. He rubbed the back of his head feeling thick substance on his fingers. He knew it was blood gushing out. The dizziness and nausea let him know that once again, he probably had a concussion. He knew the symptoms, having had enough of them over the years and, just recently, a slight one from the beating on the St. Vitus. Rico swam over to Sonny, the waves were calming down and the objects that flew from the explosion had stopped. He saw Sonny lying on his back, letting the unaffected sections of the vest hold him up. “Sonny, can you swim?†“Huh? Oh….umm,†Sonny felt that familiar woozy felling, that black blanket that slid up his body and into his head. He knew he’d be unconscious soon, “Rico,†His words started to slur, his head swirled and pounded. He wasn’t able to focus his eyes; he could never fire the flare they needed. He didn’t want to tell Rico how bad he felt. “Take….. Flare gun……..fire it.†Was all Sonny got out before the dark blanket fully covered him in unconsciousness. “Sonny!†Rico knew his partner was out cold. Tubbs fumbled with the slippery pouch until he finally got it off the belt. Carefully, so it wouldn’t slide out of his hand, he hooked his finger in through the trigger. Still paddling with his feet to stay upright his hand tightened around the handle of the gun. He held the flare gun straight up before squeezing the trigger. The flare discharged into the night sky and burst, setting off a brilliant colorful light that shone down on them. Tubbs placed it back in the pouch and attached it to his own belt. He then pulled the unconscious form to him. He held Crockett’s head up to keep the water away from his face while doggy paddling to stay under the light. **********************************************************All heads in the boat swung upward at the light in the sky that threw beams down on to the water. “They’re alive!†Switek announced. “Flare’s bright! I can see something in the water underneath it --probably them. I’m gonna move faster and then slow down when we get by them. Stan, I’m gonna need that light facing down in the water, don’t want to blind them.†Joey said before pushing on the throttle. “Right!†Stan yelled over the engines when Joey pushed the boat faster. He faced the light into the sea, just ahead of them. Joey slowed the boat down. He steered it as close as he could to the two men. That was when the four noticed that Rico was holding Sonny. “Jorge, take this spot light,†Stan ordered. Jorge came over and took it, shining it downward to see them. Stan motioned to Sammy as he leaned over the side of the boat. “Rico, you alright?†Stan yelled out. “Yeah, Sonny’s out cold!†“Pull him over and we’ll lift him into the boat.†Stan told Rico. “Stan, I’m cutting the engine so Rico can climb up the ladder in the back.†“Rico, can you climb the ladder?†“Yeah, just get Sonny in there, he’s hurt and I don’t know how bad it is.†Rico relayed. Stan and Sammy took Sonny from Rico. They each grabbed hold on either side. Sonny’s body was dead weight. They grunted with each pull until they got him onto the floor of the boat. Rico climbed slowly and wearily up the ladder. Joey and Jorge pulled him the rest of the way and let him slide to the bench seat. Rico sat there panting and shivering while looking at Sonny. “He’s bleeding pretty badly.†Sammy looked at them while taking off his own shirt, leaving him in only a T-shirt. “Wait. There are a few blankets under the bench seat.†Joey scrambled to get them when Jorge helped Rico stand up. “His knee is in bad shape, possible broken or fractured rib and I’d leave the vest on. Don’t know how bad the head is.†Rico told them and looked on in worry. Joey put the warm blanket around Rico and led him to the front passenger seat, “Sit here, it will be warmer for you, cut the wind when we get going. Glad you two got out.†Joey gave Rico a slight slap on the back before he lightly pushed the man down in the seat. Joey saw him shiver and noted the confused state – shock --- he thought. Stan sat on the bench seat, “Pull him up and lean him against me.†They pulled Sonny up and wrapped him with the blanket, his back against the bench seat. Stan took the shirt from Sammy and pressed it tightly on the gash before resting Sonny’s head on his lap. “His body is real cold. Jorge, Sammy, get on each side, he needs your body heat.†Stan told the other two men. They quickly wrapped themselves around the unconscious man, to radiate more heat. Rico knew his partner would be alright for the moment. Still, he worried about how bad the injury was. The guilt bounced back and forth like a ping pong match over the reason his friend was hurt. How Valerie could ever do something like this was beyond him. The difference he found in her was startling. He suddenly came out of his reverie. He gave a quick look over at Joey, worried that the Coast Guard hadn’t caught Valerie, Fuente or Lee. “Joey, did the Coast Guard get Val, Fuente and Lee?†“Yeah, down in interrogation about now, or a holding cell.†Hardin smiled. “Good.†The words shivered out of his mouth. Stan pulled the radio from his belt, “Lieutenant, Switek. We got Rico and Sonny. Sonny’s unconscious with injuries. Rico’s cold and shock is setting in. Can you have a Medi-Vac at the ship when we get there?†“Yes, one is waiting now. What is your ETA?†Castillo asked. “Joey, what’s the ETA, ‘bout 15 minutes?†Stan waited for an answer. “About that, give or take a few. The water’s choppy and in Sonny’s condition I don’t wanna fly, so give it 20.†Hardin answered. “Lieutenant, Hardin says the water’s choppy and with Sonny’s injuries I don’t think he wants to flop around too much. We’re trying to keep pressure on the wound and keep him warm.†“I’ll see you then.†Castillo told Switek and the radio went silent. Joey started the engine, slowly turned the boat around and then pushed down on the throttle. He cut through the waves and slowed down when the boat slammed down to hard. “Joey! Go as fast as you can, only slow down for the bigger waves!†Stan yelled. Joey turned his head and glared at Stan, “Don’t you think that’s what I’m doing? Now knock it off and watch over Crockett. I’m driving!†Hardin turned back around and caught a smile from Rico and smiled back. Rico trembled more, his thinking was jumbled. The beginning of shock, he recognized. He fought to hold it together. ********************************************************** The boat pulled up along side of the ship. Lines were thrown down to tie up the boat. Bumpers lay on the side in order to keep the boat safe as it bumped against the large hull. Several men looked down at the detectives. “We’re sending down a board. Put Crockett on it and belt him in. We’ll crank the board back up slowly.†The board was sent down. Crockett was put on it, wrapped in a blanket and firmly belted in. His head held in place by two smaller boards that moved to fit and then locked. Slowly and carefully, the board was cranked up. Netting dangled down the side to help keep the board from hitting the hard hull. After Crockett was aboard a rope ladder was thrown down. Rico climbed up first. Stan was next and climbed close behind Rico in order to make sure he didn’t fall. The portly detective guided him up the ladder to the deck. After they were up, the rest followed. Crockett was already on the helicopter. Rico was helped into a seat while a medic looked after him. He saw an IV hooked up along with a monitor to read vitals and, Sonny’s head had been wrapped up. His mind barely registered the copters lift off the deck, eyes locked on his partner while the medic checked him over. Switek turned to Castillo. “What do you want us to do?†Castillo turned. His face steady, unreadable, though Switek knew their Lieutenant was just as worried as the rest of them. “Get Duddy and the tapes down town. Question each one separately. I’ll meet you down there, take the boat. I radioed Trudy, Gina, Tanya and Julie; they’ll meet Tubbs and Crockett at the hospital. After the interrogation we’ll head over and see how they are.†“Ok, I’ll round everyone up.†Switek told his Lieutenant before he left. **********************************************************“Lieutenant just radioed in. They have Tubbs and Crockett. They’re hurt, especially Crockett. We’re on our way to Jackson Memorial to give the needed information and see how they are.†Trudy relayed the message. The other’s nodded and then quickly grabbed their things on their way out. Trudy grabbed Gina’s arm.†Is …..is Crockett going to be alright?†Gina turned and asked with worry. “You know Sonny. He’s not one for giving up and I think it’s not as bad as you’re imagining. You ok?†Trudy looked at her partner with concern. “Yeah, now that they’re out I am, just worried about them. Crockett can never stay away from that E.R.†Gina stated with feeling. “Look, we’ll find out how they both are. Then you’re going to have to figure this out, once and for all. I mean about Gordon and Sonny.†Trudy pushed at Gina. “I know, I know. I think I have, but I have to see Sonny first. We better go. All the times they’ve been in there we have the information that they’ll need.†Gina started out of the room. “Most of it’s on file and Castillo said that Doctor Dave Merlo is on tonight. He always seems to be on when one of us gets hurt this late. He knows their history and that they’re cops. Castillo also wants us to keep a heads up, just in case Fuente’s people on land decide to pay a visit to the hospital.†Trudy hadn’t told the other two detectives’s but would later. She wanted her partner to be on guard. This wasn’t the first time they’d been in this situation and probably wouldn’t be the last, she thought as they headed to the door. “I know.†Gina replied softly while she followed Trudy out the door. **********************************************************Steve Duddy brought all his equipment back to his car and locked it up. He then went in and watched as his surveillance tapes were filed into evidence. He knew that Castillo, Switek, Sammy Worth and a few others were down at Metro Dade interrogating their suspects. He hoped that the part he played in all this would put the three away for a long time. He watched Joey and Jorge at work filling out the reports to log in the evidence. He sat on the table as the last were being taken care of. “I have copies just in case anything happens to these.†Steve told them, tired of the quiet. When he just got a nod he continued, “When you’re done, you think I could go down to Jackson Memorial with you and see how Crockett and Tubbs are doing?†Joey quickly looked up at the fidgety man, “Yeah, sure, if you stop moving around and driving us nuts.†“How am I driving you nuts?†“Dude, you’re shaking the table, moving around like caged animal. Knock –it--off.†Joey answered with annoyance. “Well excccuuuusssssseeee meeeeee.†Duddy slid out in an imitation of Steve Martin. “I wanna get done and see how they are too.†Hardin huffed. Jorge sighed and signed the last page, “’K we can drop these off on our way down to Jackson.†“Good,†Joey answered and then saw Duddy jump up, “Hey, calm down, damn it!†he snarled. “Alright, geez I told you, I just want to see how they are. I can’t believe you’d get on me about that. Man.†Duddy shook his head in disbelief. Jorge gave a box to Duddy, “Here, make yourself useful and carry this to the car.†“Yeah, let’s go before this wing nut drives me crazy.†Joey told his partner while he followed him out with an armful of manila envelopes.TBC

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New chapter/ Chapter 19THE CURRENT CAN CHANGE ON A DIME BY SUE MCNIECEDisclaimer: I don’t own any of the characters. Anthony Yerkovich created Miami Vice and Michael Mann was Executive producer, I thank them for that. This is just a fan fiction from my warped mind. I’d like to thanks my friends, Jage and Karen for a bit of beta reading. CHAPTER 19 The ER waiting room hadn’t changed much since a year ago, the last time she had been there. Thank God it was only due to a bullet grazing one of the young detectives. The uncomfortable chairs where still in place with old magazines scattering the room. One thing that had changed was the walls were now painted a mauve color. And, thank God the coffee pot was a lot bigger, Trudy thought as she poured herself yet another cup. She’d updated the information that was on file since it had been more than four years since either detective had been admitted to Jackson Memorial. Of course she had to give that information for Ricardo Cooper and Sonny Burnett. She was glad that Doctor Dave Merlo was there. He was usually called in to take care of any undercover police detectives, knowing who they really were. Her worrying turned to thoughts of her two co-workers and friends. Sonny, who had stood by her many times, telling her not to second guess herself, especially the first time she had shot and killed and been pulled into IAD. He’d always been there for her whenever she needed a shoulder or a push in the right direction. Rico was also there for her, not in the same way, but his positive words had kept her going at times. Even though they had been gone from Vice for four years, she had seen and at times still been encouraged by Sonny. She talked on the phone to Rico at least once a month, although the pass year they hadn’t talked much at all. But now they were both back in the fold. Rico in Sonny’s old position and Sonny would train for Castillo’s spot, she couldn’t think of anyone better. She hoped to God he’d be fine and thanked God that Rico was. Trudy stood watching the clock, it had been two hours and two hours of not only waiting with her own thoughts but also watching the other detectives pace, sit and stare off into space. Castillo had stopped down town before quickly coming to the hospital. He sat in a chair, his stoic face showing nothing. She’d also observed their different co-workers slowly file in, Augustine, Dimmel, Hardin, Diaz and tagging along with them was Duddy. She cringed, but knew how much the sweeper had helped their case. Each team asked of news before getting coffee and finding a seat for their vigil. Switek and Worth, between the two of them had tried to interrogate Fuente, Lee and Gordon. Lawyers came and when finished, the two detectives left to be last to join the long wait. She sighed, and again repeated to Stan and Sammy what she had explained to the other detectives. Doctor Dave, as they called him, had only seen them in passing to say they were taking Sonny for tests and he was still unconscious. Rico on the other hand was conscious but being treated for slight shock and mild hyperthermia. He had been given a sedative to allow for sleep, when Rico had become agitated about how his partner was. After learning how Tubbs and Crockett were, the husky detective and his partner poured coffee and followed suit with the rest of the team. Trudy spoke to the last of her co-workers. Finally done with all the inquiries, she had a second thought, and, poured another cup of coffee. She then sat down next to her partner. Gina nodded a thank you as she took the dark liquid. “I keep drinking this and it’s going to eat a hole in my stomach.” Trudy stated to break the silence. “Yeah, I know, but we’re used to that caffeine jolt.” Gina answered before she looked at the big clock on the wall. ****************************************************************Gina hated waiting for a medical update more than she hated the waiting during surveillance. Both were so different. She remembered six years ago, waiting for news when Sonny had been shot. How once they thought he was stable, he had to be rushed back into surgery. That night had gone on forever it seemed. She knew everyone including her had been remembering different parts of their lives that Sonny had touched. She stole a look at the Lieutenant deep in his thoughts. She remembered how he had consoled her after she had explained the petty argument that she and Sonny had had, afraid that would be the last thing he’d remember about her. She brushed back her hair, stood up and walked around the room for something different and to get the stiffness out of her body. Gina glanced at Julie and Tanya. The young blonde it seemed was pretty shaken up. Tanya was consoling her. Had Sonny and Julie started a romance, she wondered? Or was it just the reality of being a police officer that was hitting the detective. She didn’t know. Gina found herself staring out the large window, into rain that was reminiscent of the time Crockett had been shot. Her mind drifted, joined with the cascade of water that poured like a waterfall from the gutters. Castillo had been waiting patiently. He knew things like this took time and better the time be taken than something over looked. Being a police Lieutenant he knew this. His mind had gone over different memories of Crockett. He now stopped and thanked the heavens that Tubbs would be fine and hoped the same for his other friend. He needed a break and went over to Stanley Switek to find out more details on the three criminals that were in lock up. Switek had told him of the lawyers and that the three would not answer anything until they had time to confer with these lawyers. Hands tied by the legal system he and his partner had left for the hospital. Castillo nodded and walked away. Hardin cracked his neck. He saw that Diaz was trying to read a magazine to pass the time. The chairs were very uncomfortable. He turned away from his partner and laid his legs on the adjoining chairs. He leaned his neck so the top of his head rested against the wall. He remembered the first time he met Sonny Crockett. And the talks they had on the St. Vitus Dance while he was undercover as Keith, a witness that needed to be protected.His first assignment with the DEA, he had been nervous, but played his cover well. He fooled the experienced Vice team. He smiled at that and at the few things he found out about the senior detective of that Vice team. He closed his eyes and saw the blue sky, the water and could almost feel the gentle rocking of the sail boat. He heard parts of different conversations they had. One talk stood out in his mind. “Rico’s never let me down.” He had always remembered that, what Sonny said about trust and your partner. This had saved both him and Diaz many a time. He also remembered seeing Crockett socially, becoming friends after he was shot at the end of that first case. They had gotten to know one another pretty well and Hardin had learned a lot from his mentor. After Sonny left the force they still kept in touch, socially and to advise his young protégé on cases. Joey felt like Sonny was an older brother and not having a younger brother, Sonny had let it slip that he felt the same. Joey lay there lost in his thoughts******************************************************************************************* Finally the doors opened and a man in his early fifties stepped out. The doctor stood there: medium height, hair more gray than black, his brown eyes swept the room filled with the Vice squad he had gotten to know since 1987 when he had transfer to the rotation of this hospital and Biscayne General. He was used to either being at the hospital or being called in to take care of one of his patients from the police force. He saw all the eyes that held his and Martin Castillo walking towards him. He met Martin halfway and the rest of the team huddled close enough to hear what would be said. “Martin.” The doctor shook Castillo’s hand. “Dave. How’s Crockett?” Castillo came right to the point. “Tests came back fine, no internal injuries. I’d say Sonny’s very lucky with the beating he took. The swelling to his left eye has gone down and there are abrasions and contusions all over his face and body. By the coloring, they’re healing nicely already. The blow to the head caused a minor cut, but you know how the head bleeds. He needed three stitches. I’m giving IV’s to hydrate him. He showed a slight concussion from days or at least a week ago, and the second blow has given him another. We’ll keep him here for observation. Plus, he’s awake and feeling nauseous and a little dizzy, very normal. But he did know me and other information I asked, so I don’t think there’s brain damage. Still, with two hits to the head in one week, you never know. ” He had been talking to Martin. He then looked around for a reaction from the rest of the squad. The attention still on him, he started to finish his assessment. “The wrists were nasty from the rope digging into them, so we’ve put anti-biotic ointment on the skin and wrapped them up. Nothing serious with his shoulders, although the hanging did pull some muscles, I put him on muscle relaxants for seven to ten days. There will be soreness in moving and will take a few weeks to heal. His one rib is fractured and will heal in four to six weeks.” The doctor let out a long sigh, “what will take time is that damn knee of Crockett’s. The knee was hit on the inside and not the front, which helped him out. There are two ligaments on either side of the knee that hold it in place. The inner ligament is tight and holding, the outer one, from the hard kicks, was loosened more than it originally had been. Plus, with all the years of stress the knee’s never been right from the original accident. The knee was pushed out of place slightly but enough to cause a tremendous amount of pain and problems. Honestly, I don’t know how he even put pressure on it except for his stubbornness.” Dave chuckled at the thought. Martin and the squad all nodded with a smile, knowing he was right. Sonny was just too stubborn to give into the pain in a life and death situation. Shaking his head, with a slight smile, he again continued, “I gave him a local to numb the area and adjusted the knee where it should be. He’s in an immobilizer; he’ll wear that for a few weeks and go to physical therapy. After the two weeks we’ll put him in a walking brace, a boot. He’ll be able to walk around and the knee will be held in place. He’ll still have to take it easy and continue the therapy. We also have him on an anti-inflammatory which will bring the swelling down and help the pain. I’m going to talk to him about later on, having Arthroscopic Surgery, to fix up that knee.” Doctor Merlo looked around again and then gave a stern look at the lieutenant. “Marty, we both know Crockett -- he can’t-- be on the streets. Two weeks and once he’s in the boot brace he can come back to work, but desk work only,” Dave cautioned, “he can’t drive either, so someone’s going to have to take him back and forth to work and therapy.” Merlo thought for a moment and asked. “He still on the Vitus? That ladder will not be allowed.” “No, he has a different boat, one with stairs, not a ladder.” Martin answered the doctor. “Good, as little as possible for him going up and down them and jumping on and off that boat of his.” “Rico is staying with him.” Trudy offered. “Good, Rico will be out of here tomorrow morning. He needs a day or two and then he can go back to work. He’s resting and when he wakes the shock and the Hyperthermia will be gone. Though I know the first thing Rico will want is to see Sonny for himself. Whoever picks him up can take him to see Sonny. Any questions?” Dave smiled at the little family that he knew the Vice squad was. “When will he be moved?” Gina asked, quietly, laced with concern. “Tomorrow, if he’s feeling better. It’s late now and I want to watch his symptoms, the dizziness and Nausea I told you about. So whoever picks up Rico tomorrow can just check at the nurse’s desk to see if Sonny’s been moved and where. I’ll let the desk know since I’m his doctor here, and, up on the floor. And as always, visiting hours will be loose for all of you.” “How long will Crockett be in here?” Martin asked in thought. “Oh, I forgot to tell you that one.” The doctor had known Sonny to long and his voice became somewhat firm as he conveyed his thoughts. “I know that Sonny hates hospitals but he’ll be our guest for five days, maybe six. He’ll continue on the medications and do everything I said. I’ll tell him everything I’ve just explained. And, I’m putting my foot down with Crockett. If he doesn’t listen, he’ll be back here as our guest for the remainder of the six weeks. Any questions about what I’ve explained?” “There’ll be no problem with desk work for Sonny. He will be taking my place as Lieutenant of Vice. He’ll be learning all the paper, office, and other parts of the job.” “Well, where will that leave you, Martin?” “I’ll be Captain.” “Congratulations, it’s about time. Crockett will do a great job in your place. I think that’s a great way to keep him behind a desk for several weeks.” Dave laughed. Martin gave an unusual slight smile before getting serious once again, “I need to be cautious; there may be some danger to Sonny. I know you’re used to police protection and giving us a list of staff that will be going in and out of Crockett’s room. I’ll have a list for you as well, shift chances and the officers I’ll be putting on.” “It’s always funny when one of your people comes in here, Martin. Of course I’ll give you a list. I’ll do that as soon as I can and if you aren’t around I’ll fax a copy to you. I’ll need the number.” Martin took out a pen and small noted book, as he wrote he spoke again, “I’ll let you know within the hour what officers will be on guard tonight. I’ll have a list for you tomorrow morning, on the schedule for the week.” The paper with the number was handed to the doctor. Dave nodded, shoving the paper into his pocket, “Well I have other patients to check up on. Two at a time to see Sonny, only a few minutes, he isn’t feeling well. And that, kids, is an order!” He said sternly with a slight smile. He knew they just wanted to make sure that Sonny was fine and then would go, “and Rico is, asleep, so you’ll have to wait until tomorrow to see him. Good-night.” Dave waved as he walked back into the ER. After the doctor left a few at a time went in for a second to say hello and then back out. They all could see Sonny wasn’t well. As usual he tried not to show it, even though he was pale and couldn’t hold his head up. The team all satisfied, went home for some much needed rest. *************************************************************************************************A nurse pushed the wheel chair into the cubicle that Ricardo Tubbs was in. She was followed by a detective in a loud Hawaiian shirt who carried an overnight bag. “I have to wheel you out detective, hospital rules. I’ll leave it here and when you’re dressed let me know. I’ll be at the desk.” She smiled and left the area. “Hey, glad to see you in one piece.” Stan told him while he placed the bag on the gurney, “Thought you’d like a change of clothes since hospital gowns would fall under indecent exposure.” he laughed. “Yeah? And what do they call wearing that thing?” Rico pointed at the offensive shirt. “Aren’t we the cranky one this morning. You’re sounding like Sonny.” Stan shook his head. Rico smiled, stood up with the bag in his hand, “You, my man, have to leave so I can dress. And as for my partner, he’s right about the shirt. I want to see him before we leave this place and then you can hear it from him about your shirt.” He continued to smile at Stan. “No problem Rico, knew that anyway, so found out what room he’s in. Yeah, I thought the shirt would keep his mind off the aches and pains” Stan smiled and gave a quick wink. “Is he being guarded? You never know if Fuente’s men might try to kill him.” Rico stated protectively. “Yeah, the Lieutenant made a whole schedule for two officers to guard the room. He also has a list from Doctor Dave on the staff that will be on and when, so everything is taken care of. The only thing we have to worry about is Sonny’s mouth. You know how he loves hospitals.” “Yeah.” Rico agreed as the man passed through the curtain to give him his privacy. When Rico was done dressing he looked around the curtain to see Stan with the wheel chair. Stan caught the look and wheeled it over. “Nurse said I can take you up to Sonny’s room, just had to flirt a little.” “Thanks Stan, that means I don’t have to sit in it once we’re out of sight.” “No Rico, you have to sit in it. That was the only way I got her to let me bring you up.” Stan unwaveringly told his friend. “I knew flirting didn’t work for you.” Rico recoiled and then disgustedly sat in the chair, “Now no fancy drivin’” he warned. “Now that hurts, Rico. I did my best and you should be used fancy driving with Sonny.” Switek teased. “You ain’t Sonny and it took me awhile to get used to that Southerner’s drivin’. I held on to the panic bar more times then I can remember. All he did was laugh or give me a smart ass look.” Rico smiled at the memory as he was wheeled into the elevator and Stan hit the button to Sonny’s floor.TBC

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