Past and Future, Part 9
Title: past and future, part IX author: callisto24 fandom: 24 charakters: Jack, Tony, Chase, Henderson, Chloe... category: drama, m/m slash theme: between season4 and season5 rating: NC-17 warning: includes violence, non-con, smut and probably terrible language mistakes... corrections, beta always very appreciated! disclaimer: nothing belongs to me, no money made....
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“Well done, Chuck! I knew, I could trust you.” “He deserved it,” Chase answered quietly, watching Simon carefully, who nodded before he spoke again. “Not easy to find someone, who ‘ s willing and able to take care of this kind of problem.” “You mean to kill someone?” “I meant to make a final decision.” “He was a threat and a danger, he brought it on himself.” “How you got rid of him will teach the others to stay in line.” Chase allowed a smile to twitch around the corners of his mouth. “Then my job is done.” “Not at all.” Simon regarded the young man thoughtfully. “Just qualifies you for a bigger task.” “Like what?” “Like the elimination of a special risk.” He hesitated for a moment and looked around fearfully, before he lowered his voice. “The most important thing would be to keep your mouth shut. Nobody... and really nobody might know, what instrunctions I would give to you.” “Okay by me.” “You ‘ re a good man, Chuck. I ‘ ll send you to California, there is a person who needs special attention!” Simon grinned, while Chase glanced at him, his green eyes cold and dark in abhorrence. “Shall I go alone?” “I ‘ ll choose somone for your backup. Probably Andrew, you two stick together all the time anyway. No one would wonder about you joining for a job.” He watched the agent srutinizing. “It ‘ s really important and I rely on you. This is my turn now, “ he added cryptically. “You ‘ ll receive further information, when it ‘ s the right time.” He waved Chase away, who was relieved to be allowed to vanish. He doubted that he would be able to hide his aversion any longer. His dislike grew stronger the more the man trusted him and as much as he hated the thought to leave the state, as much he appreciated the possibility to be out of Simons touch. Next thing to do would be to notify Mr. Woodside about his progress. Now wonder Simon had fallen for their deception, hadn ‘t been that difficult to convince him of his qualities as a cold blooded killer. Some rumours, help of police, agents and a willing traitor, whose vanishing had to be tarnished, and Simon found him capable of coming near to the boss, of approaching the heart of the organization. Chase felt guilty about the way he had been forced to use Andrew in his game, but they had needed a witness for his actions and his friend had believed completely what he had shown him last night, proving the cruelty to punish a man, who had planned to betray their aims, to kill him and to cover the tracks. He hadn ‘ t seen the men in the dark, when they had drawn the the consciousless body out of the cold water, revived him, made sure, that he would be able to testify. Chases lover had looked, as if he would be ready to throw up, but had done his best to hide his emotions. Obviously he had been shocked about ease Chuck had shown, while he probably hadn ‘ t expected more than a serious warning. “Might be for the best,” Chase soundlessly considered the fresh memory. Keeping him at distance would keep him secure in future, at least as secure as possible. Though the idea of being confronted again with places, he had meant to leave behind forever, roused the wish in his mind to be not alone then, to have someone with him, whose presence could create the illusion of being protected. He wasn ‘ t sure, if he actually was asking for too much.
* * * * *
“Why haven ‘ t you told me?” “Told you what?” “You ‘ re leaving for L.A. . Simon wanted me to escort you.” Andrew glanced angrily at Chase. “Had at least expected, that you would tell me yourself.” “I wanted to give you a possibility to retreat, to find a proper excuse.” Chase squirmed uncomfortably with his words, sensed the relentless black eyes studying him with hardly hidden fury. Andrew folded his arms in front of his chest, before he answered. “Why should I? This is the opportunity I ‘ ve waited for. Besides... ,” he leant forward confidentially. “I don ‘ t plan to let you go. After all I just found you.” “I thought, you were... .” “What? Freaked out?” Andrew shook his head. “No chance. Have seen worse. And things have to be done, right?” Their eyes met and Chase felt hesitation and confusion, but also unconditional willingness. “You should stay,” he tried again. “Your family needs you and this might turn out dangerous.” Andrew blinked. “Another reason to go. Who else should take care of you.” “Don ‘ t worry about me.” Chase answered quietly. “There are things, you don ‘ t know and you probably don ‘ t want to know.” “Don ‘ t feed me with this bullshit. If you don ‘ t want me to come, say it, but don ‘ t expect me to listen.” “I... I...., “ Chase stuttered, while a bright smile grew slowly on Andrews face. “Give it up, man. I can see what you want.” The taller man turned away, threw a last glance over his shoulder. “I already agreed to the trip. You never really thought, that I would miss the opportunity to have you for my own in the city of Angels? Forget it, Chuck!” Chase watched him leave with a mixture of worry, relief and amusement whirling through his mind. Finally he shrugged and smiled. The man amazed him more and more and he couldn ‘ t deny, that he craved for the feelings Andrew was able to create in him, feelings that went deeper than simple arousal or the hot, fulfilling sex they shared, whenever possible.
* * * * *
“So, the hair is gone?” Tony ruffled through Jacks short haircut, tried in vain to mess it up. “That ‘ s why I got rid of it.” The blond smiled. “Distracted you too much.” “Never.” Tony kissed the smooth forehead and let his lips wander down to caress the fine wrinkles around his lovers eyes, licked down the sun burnt cheekbones, proof for the hard work Jack did day by day under the hot desert sun, until he he reached his favorite place. He nuzzled against Jacks throat, gaining another soft sigh from the delicate mouth. “Give me some months, I ‘ ll let it grow again.” “I know another thing to grow soon,” Tony grinned and slid his long fingers over the naked body until he found what he was looking for. “Jesus, Tony, give me a little time to recover,” Jack gasped, while he felt his soft shaft enclosed by a strong hand. “You wanna talk?” Tony teased him, encircling the object of his desire, stroking it tenderly with his fingertips, his voice remaining astonishing cool. “So, the little family is nice? There hadn ‘ t been a reason to worry about you during the holidays?” “No need to,” Jack whispered back and stiffened with a moan, when Tony started to pull lovingly. “Should bring Diane a nice present for taking care of my treasure.” “You won ‘ t dare to... .” Jack arched up when Tonys grip became firmer. “She deserves it. To keep you company isn ‘ t an easy job, everyone, who knows you, would certify it.” “Tony!” Jack breathed desperately. “I can ‘ t ... anymore.” Tony bent forward, blowing against the already glowing earlobes. “Do you know, what I love most?” Jack licked his lips, while he started to rock back against the body behind him. A groan escaped him, when Tony joined his movements, strengthened the attentions he spent on the hardening flesh. “What?” Jack managed to croak, before he softly bit his tongue to suppress a cry. Tony held him tight, his second hand moving in lazy circles up and down Jacks chest, pausing to squeeze dark nipples, only content, when the smaller man couldn ‘ t avoid a small delighted scream and pushed up into the rhythmically massaging fist. Tony held him even tighter, stopped his moves, pressing him close, making Jack gasp, when he felt melting against the taller body, which surrounded him firmly, giving all he had in the useless attempt to become one. Jack struggled frantically, aroused to the point, he couldn ‘ t bear it anymore, eager to be finished, longing for relief, surrendering to the sweet torture. Tony kissed Jacks ear, licked around it and finally whispered huskily: “That I know the only way to make Jack Bauer lose control.” “Then do it, please!” Jack pleaded, giving up, what was left of his self-discipline, when he cried out with the final strokes driving him over the edge.
* * * * * “You drive me crazy.” Jack sighed, after he had come down from the heights of orgasm, still panting in the strong arms of his lover. “I ‘ m just using the little time we have.” Tony stated. “Won ‘ t waste a second.” “We still have time.” Jack mentioned in response, when his heartbeat slowed down at last. “Nothing suspicious for months. I guess I start to feel free and secure finally.” He paused considerating his words. “Means, you can come here more often... maybe... if you want to... .” “As often as possible.” Tony softly kissed the smaller mans shoulder before he nibbled on the small silver chain hanging around Jacks neck. “Our time on earth is limited. Sometimes I think... .” Jack startled nearly noticable. “Any problems with your health, Tony?” “No, I ‘ m fine.” He grabbed the cross and turned it between his fingers, watching it thoughtfully. “I ‘ m glad, you ‘ re carrying it with you, though you ‘ re not religious.” “God knows no religion,” Jack sighed relieved. “So, what makes you think... ?” Tony shrugged. “Don ‘ t know. Got this feeling, something might happen soon.” He shook his head. “Maybe thinking too much.” “Nothing wrong with thinking,” Jack smiled and reached around to pull Tonys face closer to his. “I ‘ m thinking of you all the time.” He brushed soft lips carefully over the other mans tempting mouth. “And you ‘ re right. We have no time to waste. Tomorrow can be too late.” He smiled at him, eyes locked, shone in sadness and desire for something incomprehensible, inconceivable, none of them would be able to put in words. “And now let me take care of you. I ‘ ll please you in a way, you won ‘ t forget, you will remember night for night until you ‘ ll come back to me.” “Nothing would be able to hold me back.” Tony finally smiled back. “Let ‘ s celebrate what we have, as long as we ‘ ll have it.” He settled back, allowing Jack to return the joy, he ‘ d received moments ago, exchanging gentle caresses, which proved love and passion until they collapsed contently, out of breath, too tired to quarrel with their fate.
* * * * *
“I suggest you to come over here, as soon as possible!” “Are you nuts, Christopher? I ‘ m leaving the country, there ‘ s no time for small talk anymore.” “Might interest you, that your friend Simon has sent a killer after me?” “What do you say?” “We ‘ ve got the information for a while, today the suspicion was confirmed. A young man, never conspicuous, advanced slowly in our ranks. Started in New York, until he was sent southward.” “Why should I believe you?” “You don ‘ t have to. I only thought it would be fair to inform you, that Simon is acting behind your back. Wouldn ‘ t wonder, if he already had done more. You shouldn ‘ t trust him anymore.” “Calm down, Henderson! We still have few hours left. You ‘ ll bring the guy to me and then you ‘ ll finish your job. It ‘ s more important than anything else.” “I ‘ m not your servant, Roger. Take a look at him here or forget it. You know, I ‘ ve no time for these kind of games.” Connors put the phone down considering the news. “This bastard is really tugging on my nerves. If he survives the next days, maybe we should get rid of him. He already knows to much.” He sighed and stroke his hair back. “Well, had my doubts about Simon. Is there still time for a visit?” “Yeah boss. I ‘ m already checking the files. There are pictures and reports, describing each man, who had come from North during the last weeks.” “Make it months! And hurry up. I wanna be vanished, when the trouble will start.”
* * * * *
“Chuck, Andrew! Time for you to meet our boss now.” Chase stopped in his motion, let the papers sink down on which he noted the supplies, glancing at his friend, who smiled excited. “Told you, you ‘ ll meet him,” he whispered, when he moved past the younger man. Chase looked around in confusion, approached the man, who had called them. “I ‘ m missing stuff. What about the canisters brought here yesterday? They seemed to be important.” “Forget about them, boy.” Chase felt the folders taken from him, while he was pushed forward relentlessly. A bright haired man in his fifties scrutinized him, his sharp eyes wandering over his body. Chase turned his head to watch Andrew standing in a corner, next to a heavily armed man, who usually stood outside the warehouse. In this moment he sensed the danger. It hung in the air since they ‘d arrived and he cursed himself having forgotten to care about. Now he stood in front of the man he should kill as soon as Simon would order him to do it and he felt, that it was to late. He hadn ‘ t really intended to murder him, but staring into the hard, merciless features, he recognized something familiar, an unscrupulousness, he ‘ d seen before, he ‘ d felt himself, when he had worked with Jack, and he knew that he would be able to kill him, without regret. But he wouldn ‘ t, Henderson told him in his cold glance, that his orders were no secret anymore. Chase hadn ‘ t said much to Andrew, but it might have been enough, added to the husky confessions in dark storage rooms or during nightly visits, he maybe had been able to come to a conclusion. Damnit, he had been careless, he hadn ‘ t thought about anything during the last weeks, nothing had been important, but distracting himself from the fact, that he was here again, in this town, he had learned to hate. He couldn ‘ t put up with the temperature, the permanent blue sky, the streets, who seemed to be familiar, though he knew he hadn ‘ t seen them before. He fought the urge to go and visit Jacks grave by drinking whenever possible and using Andrews comfort, when the alcohol wasn ‘ t enough anymore, when the waiting prolonged, waiting for an instruction, waiting for new orders, for anything to change his feelings, now matter at what costs. If someone becomes suspicious, it would have been quite easy to find out about him, he talked during his sleep, at least Andrew had mentioned it more than once. Chase raised his chin. In fact, he wasn ‘ t really shocked, more annoyed by his stupidity. But after all, this could turn out to be the end, he ‘ d wanted. A short smile twitched around his lips, when he met Andrews eyes, who looked at him questioning, obviously sensing the vibes, but not knowing what to think about them.
“Christopher!” A tall figure in an elegant suit, the long hair bound back entered the room behind them. Andrews face lightened with the sight and he nodded into Chases direction, whose insides squirmed noticing the trust in his eyes. Maybe there would be a chance to talk himself out of it, after all, he had no idea how much they knew, if they really knew anything. Anyway it had to be possible to convince them of Andrews loyalty. Unarmed, the warehouse carefully guarded, and now surrounded by Connors men, any try for an escape would prove senseless,so Chase concentrated on finding explanations. “I ‘ m glad to see, that you decided to take a look.” Henderson grinned at the approaching man. Roger smirked contemptuously. “I decided it should be necessary to bring you a message by myself.” He lay a hand on Christophers shoulder and turned him around, until he faced Chase completely. “CTU meets CTU.” “What?” “I relied on you Christopher, and you ‘ re occupying a federal agent directly under your nose?” “This can ‘ t be true,” Henderson defended himself. “He has been checked from head to toe, his background exhibits no gaps. Simon has sent him here only for one reason.” “Simon is no topic, the threat is far more serious.” “Like what?” “Like the FBI lurking around and no one cares. Sounds familiar? I can ‘ t believe how foolish you are.” “Me? Simon sends a killer, who ‘ s working for the government? Maybe I shouldn ‘ t wonder.” “Simon is already dead, and I made sure, that his dead had been painful.” “What do you think, Mr. Edmunds?” He turned to Chase, who met his eyes quietly. “Would people avoid to make similar mistakes, when the punishment is tough enough, when only the thought on what a person had to endure would cause another person to become sick?” He looked back to Henderson. “I think, there is a chance.” Christopher raised his hands in defense. “I had no idea. Seen this Edmunds guy for the first time today, he worked practically invisibly.” “That ‘ s what he was supposed to do,” Roger snorted. “I only wonder, how he could come so close without you noticing a thing.” “Shit, Roger... he came from Simon, and we were ordered to take whatever New York offers.” The boss glanced at him, no further emotion visible on his features. “Alright. You made your point clear and I have no reason to doubt your words. But believe me, when I say, that I ‘ m watching you. The next days will make a change and you ‘ re a part of this.” Henderson nodded. “I agree.” His gaze fell again on Chase, who made no effort to move. “And you think, that this boy is an agent?” He looked sceptically and turned to Andrew. “Thought he had nothing else in his mind but screwing his buddy.” “He is.” Roger grinned. “And I wonder he returned here, more than ignoring my warning.” He pointed on Chase, and soon one of his men lifted the young mans right hand, pulling down his sleeve, revealing the almost forgotten tattoo. “So I had to admit, in those days I intended more to scare Bauer, than giving a thought about the boy.” He smirked and mentioned to let Chase go, who blushed in anger and embarrassement. “Bauer?” “Jack Bauer, CTU L.A.! I bet you ‘ ve worked with him, too.” “You know very well I did,” Henderson shot back. “And you also know what happened between us.” “Maybe.” Connors started to enjoy the conversation. “But I guess the young man has no clue about his lovers past.” Now Chase couldn ‘ t prevent his face from turning red, catching a glimpse on the astonished face Andrew showed, before he noticed Christophers eyes widening. “What ‘ s your point?” The older man spoke finally. “Bauer is dead and no one cares.” Roger laughed amused. “We ‘ ll have to talk about it.” He regarded his watch. “But momentarily we ‘ re running out of time.” He pointed on Chase. “I ‘ m taking him with me. He helped me once, though next time a pretty tattoo wouldn ‘ t be sufficient.” Henderson shook his head. “Do what you have to do. What ‘ s with the other guy?” “Kill him. He ‘ s unimportant.” Connors answered, already heading for the door, followed by his guards, who pushed Chase forward, who tried to resist, tried to turn back, to look at Andrew, who stood there motionless, staring at him in surprise and shock.
* * * * * Chase stumbled when he heard the shots echoing from the blank walls, tearing his eardrums, but felt pushed forward by rough hands, before he had a chance to resist. Like moving in trance, he was transported outside, shoved into the dark van, still stiff in shock. The ride was over soon, Chase hadn ‘ t even noticed, he was handcuffed. Probably it had happened, when they had left the warehouse. Chase made no effort to free himself, he spent no thought on escaping, his mind remained occupied with whirling pictures, heightening his confusion. He found himself standing in the middle of an office, which seemed to be nearly emptied from its usual accessories. Connors pulled some files from the drawers in his desk, packed them carefully in different cardboard boxes, which his men carried outside once they were filled. Finally finished Connors leant back in his chair, folded his arms in front of his chest and smiled contently. “So, boy, I figured you had no idea what happened.” Chase pressed his lips together, desperately trying to hide his confusion. Connors sight moved up and down the lean body, an evil smirk spreading around his lips. “Too bad, that your mentor never trusted you. How does it feel to be used and abused again and again, to be assessed just good enough to babysit your lovers daugher.” He regarded his prisoner attentively. “Looks like even this job turned out to be too difficult for you. I would love to know what Jack thinks about you leaving the situation he had arranged for you.” “Jack is dead.” Chase couldn ‘ t hold back, was rewarded with an amused sparkle flashing in the expressive eyes of the older man. “Listen, who ‘ s talking,” he grinned. “Sorry Chase, I think you deserve better than being left behind in the dark. First of all, he isn ‘ t dead, it ‘ s what he wants you to believe.” Connors face took a compassionate expression and he shook his head. “I ‘ m not so fond of these mindgames, but very soon more than only some chosen people will know the truth about him. And by hiding in the desert like a sad coward he is doing us an immense favor.” “Why should I believe you, “ Chase asked doubtfully. “You don ‘ t have to.” Connors stroke a strand of his dark hair back, visibly admiring the feel of the silken curl. “In fact, I don ‘ t care what you believe or not. You ‘ re unimportant. I had nothing more in my mind but to irritate Christopher, I ‘ m missing the necessary respect in his words and actions. On the other hand, he won ‘ t annoy me very long anymore.” He scrutinized Chases shape again, before he threw a glance on his watch. “So... what will I do with you?” His grey blue eyes shimmered in delight, when he noticed the uncomfortable squirming, Chase wasn ‘ t able to prevent. “Unfortunately there ‘ s not much time left, but maybe there exists a chance for a little fun... at least for one of us.” He laughed and blinked to the men guarding the door. “I admit, you are a very interesting guy. When my boys had brought me the news about your special relationship to Jack Bauer, I had been highly amused. Had sounded to me like you had developed some talents, I hadn ‘ t expected.” He grinned again. “Too bad, that your hero had some problems with addiction, especially concerning a certain former CTU agent.” Connors nodded to a man, who appeared in the door. “Frank, your timing is perfect. Would you be so kind and release Mr. Edmunds from his clothes. I ‘ m sure you are interested, too in the state he ‘ s in. Let ‘ s decide after a quick look, how we will use our spare time with him.” “My pleasure,” Frank mumbled and ripped expertedly Chases shirt open. “Delicious,” he continued, licking his lips with the sight of the strong chest musculature turning up. “Don ‘ t stop, honey, “ Connors commanded. “But you ‘ re allowed to take your time.” His eyes enjoyed the sight of the young man, startled in shock. He called for help, when Chase suddenly lost his stiffness and tried to move away from the skilfull hands stripping him. He made a clicking noise with his tongue and shook his head. “Chase, don ‘ t be stupid. You won ‘ t want to make me angry.” He smirked again. “I remember you doing a good job satisfying your partner. Unfortunately Jack seems to prefer older or more experienced lovers, obsessed persons lurking around, watching him receiving the fuck of his life.” Connors giggled, when Frank unbuttened Chases pants. “I already get the impression, that you have... potential.” He looked around questioning. “Anyone here, who remembers Almeidas advantages? We really shouldn ‘ t create a competition... at least the seize isn ‘ t that important. Am I right.” “What do you want?” Chase was ready to lose his self-restraint. “What I want?” Roger looked at Frank, who pulled Chases trousers down. “Nothing kid... . I ‘ m just checking out the possibilities.”
* * * * * Chase felt even more embarrassed, when his face started to redden. His suddenly exposed appearance made him sense his vulnerability, the impossible situation he had manoevred himself in. And deep inside a suppressed cry tried to work its way out of his lungs, the shock about Andrews death left him unable to form a concrete thought. He refused to remember the shooting, instead he concentrated on Henderson. Somehow the name seemed familiar, he could swear he had heard or read it in connection with Jack, though he couldn ‘ t remember anyone ever talking about him. Meanwhile Frank had taken a sharp knife from one of the guards and started to play around cutting Chases shirt in long stripes, letting the silver shining blade slide dangerously close along the white skin. Obviously the game amused Connors highly because he leant forward in his chair and stared in delight at his prisoner, who stiffened instinctively avoiding to receive a cut. Looking at Chase squirming Connors finally spoke again. “The boy looks good... healthy... too healthy as I see it. The skin is perfect, despite our pretty tattoo. Nice, that you still have it. Otherwise we would have to repeat the action, if only to keep our pride. “ He grinned and stood up, took a few steps until they stood face to face, staring into each other eyes, Chase too proud to look down. His green eyes held the other mans gaze, determined not to evade. Roger broke his stare at first, still grinning brightly to hide his sudden embarrassment. His gaze moved down, studied the large bulge hidden by the thin white material, before he circled the immobilized young man, twice, finally reaching out for the bound arms, touching the black ink. “Seems like no one tried hard to remember... .” He sighed. “My next message had to be clearer then... .” he considered the thought for a moment. “ We should take care, that Jack will receive a body which shows the extent of torture a human being can bear.” He smiled evilly. “Your skin is too white, too clean, too... let ‘ s just say... it ‘ s disturbing me.” He reached out, let one long slim finger slide over the contures of strong arm muscles, moving down the side until he concentrated on the flat stomach, his hot palms caressing the surface, going deeper, playing with the waistband of his briefs before cupping demandingly the soft contents. Chase flinched unvoluntarily, tried to hide his discomfort, when Roger suddenly pulled back, starting a husky giggle. He nodded to the others. “You know what you have to do, Frank. Decorate our friend here with some nice patterns. I want to hear him scream, to see him squirm. And for God ‘ s sake - get rid of these.” He pointed to the cotton underwear which Frank hastily tried to remove at first, getting in trouble, when Chase couldn ‘ t avoid trying to wriggle out of the strong grips holding him in their iron fists. “Uhm - Boss?” Frank glanced at Connors, after he had cut the briefs open like the shirt earlier. “What about this magnificent specimen of manhood? I don ‘ t know what you have in mind but maybe these would be worth to be spared for your special attention.” Connors raised his eyebrows. “Frank, you ‘ re a really perv. The time in prison definitely had brought out the worst in you. “ He shook his head, letting his breathe out in a long hiss. “I ‘ m starting to get bored... .” Walking to the door he commanded. “Do what I ‘ ve told you and I ‘ ll make sure that the plane will be ready soon.” “Excuse me boss,” Frank called him again. “You will take him with you? ... I mean... the cleaning up... I ‘ m not sure how much I should hurt him, considering the mess... .” “That ‘ s what I have you for.” Connors shot back, obviously losing his temper. “Now do it... or should I show you first how... ?” Frank ran his hands through the short bright hair, tried to smile at the guards who showed no emotion. “Alright then... let ‘ s do it!” He stared at Chase. “If you don ‘ t move, I ‘ ll do a few cuts and let them look pretty horrible. And when you ‘ re lucky he ‘ ll leave soon and will decide to kill you quickly.” Chase bit his teeth, when the knife cut his skin open. The pain burnt like fluid fire, hot blood streamed out of his body. Chase couldn ‘ t prevent to yelp, when the blade moved from the sensitive parts of his belly to his chest, covering it with small cuts, which started to bleed immediately. He winced and hissed. His skin seemed to stand in flames and bright flashing lights started to shine in front of his eyes. “He won ‘ t be happy, until you ‘ re screaming properly,” Frank whispered, but Chase couldn ‘ t overcome, what had remained of his pride. He sucked in the air around him, felt tears rising behind his eyes, covering the world with a red haze before they fell down, left their traces on his features.” Pitiless strong hands held him tight, bewared him from stumbling, from breaking down. “Make some noise!” Frank urged him, lowering the blade to Chases thighs. Chase sobbed when he sensed the cuts below his groin, his legs trembled, only causing the knife to slid deeper into his muscles. But he couldn ‘ t cry out, he couldn ‘ t bring up the strength to make a sound. Not until Connors returned, oviously pissed off. “We can ‘ t afford another delay, I ‘ d already made that clear,” he barked into his cell phone, regarding Chase absent mindly. “Make sure, I ‘ ll leave then, I don ‘ t intend to make acquaintance with nerve gas or to get lost in the inevitable chaos after Palmers death.” Furiously he threw the phone into a corner and adressed Frank. “What ‘ s that? Are you kidding? I shouldn ‘ t order a bitch to do the job of a man.” “I ‘ sorry, boss... . I did what you... .” “Shut up and give me the knife!” Frank obeyed, glanced in fear at the taller man, who looked down on him in open fury. It happened quick and unexpected. Franks eyes widened, when he felt the blade enter forcibly his body, splitting his skin, sliding into his guts. A strangled sound escaped his lips, before Connors pushed the limp shape away violently, clearly disgusted by the man. He turned to Chase, who breathed heavily, watched the wounds covering his prisoner, the bloody weapon still in his hands. “I hate to do this,” he croaked. “It ‘ s not, what someone in my position should be forced into. But you have to understand, Chase... he was a worthless insult of my intelligence.” He stroke his hair back, which fell freely on his shoulders now, not caring about the blood he distributed, the blood glistening dark red, wherever it covered his brighter silver strands. “It ‘ s important to show the scum how far it is allowed to go... you would agree to this, Chase, am I right?” Chase shuddered. The pain made him shiver, the loss of blood weakened him to the point he doubted his own senses. Pure madness flickered in Connors eyes, when he watched the young man hungrily, apparently not yet satisfied. “You understand me, kid, don ‘ t you?” He approached the young man, blinking in rage when he received no answer. Chase stayed paralyzed, unable to react, unable to move, unable to say a word. He stared at the shiny weapon, longing for it, wanting it to invade his body, to cut him open until everything he held inside would stream out, break out like hot lava, carrying away his insides, his thoughts, his feelings, the pain, the hurt, the desparation. “Kill me... ,” he tried to form with his lips. “Move... ” his subconsciousness commanded eagerly, but in vain. The weapon stayed in Rogers hand, shaking, trembling, when Connors kept his self control with great effort. “You don ‘ t think, I ‘ ll let you go that easy,” he smirked finally. “At least in one thing this piece of shit was right.” He laughed frantically. “Besides, nothing arouses me more than the smell of fresh blood, a sight like yours and a certain portion of anger, giving me strength, giving me power, making me hot until I ‘ m near to an explosion.” He pointed to the now empty desk. “Bend him over there,” he ordered. “I ‘ ll make sure, that Bauer will go crazy when he learns what we did to his lil buddy. Will distract him from his own fate, will make him feel kind of lucky about his upcoming execution for the presidents murder.”
Chase barely noticed being pushed against the desk, his whole body already screaming in pain, his sight darkened by an impenetrable mist. He felt his legs parted roughly from behind, held in place by the men, who secured them with their own feet, while something big and hard moved against the sensitive opening, strangely exposed when a strong arm pressed his upper body down on the hard table. “No,” he managed to croak, when realization of what might happen to him hit in, but the answer consisted of nothing but a hoarse laughter and quickened breathing from above. And then it was inside, splitting him apart, ripping him open with angry, forceful thrusts. And he screamed, he couldn ‘ t keep the pain inside anymore, he screamed in desperation, humiliation, frustration, screamed even louder, when the panting from above was mixed with exhausted laughter, filling the gaps between these violent strokes. He felt himself bleeding not only outside his body anymore, but the thrusting didn ‘ t stop. Instead Connors took up speed, grunting and shoving, bending over to bit his ear, to whisper rough, toneless commands. “You don ‘ t like this position, sweatheart, don ‘ t you? You wanna be the man in charge, am I right? But now one is but me, you have to learn this the hard way.” He added a few sharp prods making Chase whimper in pain. He had already lost the strength to cry out, squeezed his eyes shut, tried to close his mind, to keep reality outside of his perception. Connors stopped, gasping, buried deep inside, struggling for air. “Damn, you are a great fuck,” he panted. “Guess who taught me how to handle a man like you.” He breathed, suddenly pushed in further, made a sound of delight, when he felt himself sink deeper, lowered his lips close to Chases ear. “It ‘ s a lecture you will learn from me, just as someone you know very well had learned it once from his mentor, when the asshole picked him up from the streets.” He giggled breathlessly. “Christopher instructed him very well and now he loves to receive it and I suppose he loves it rough, wouldn ‘ t mind if he gets hurt... at least, that ‘ s what I ‘ ve been told.” Chase tasted blood in his mouth, the world looked red again, when his eyes shot open in shock. He was close to pass out, hoped for this mercy, when the brutal movements started again, when Connors found his way to completion, shouting out triumphantly when his hot seed filled his victim. With a final grunt he pulled out and his weight lifted from Chases sore body. In his ears an anaesthetizing drumming devoured each possible sound. Though suddenly free, he remained motionless, oblivious to his surroundings, to the tears streaming down his face.
When the world slowly returned, he could hear nothing but a disturbing rustling, felt more than that he saw Connors ranting again in fury. “I can ‘ t wait any longer you stupid bastard... make it twenty minutes, otherwise, I ‘ ll rip your head off... .” Connors gaze fell on the abused body. “I will take someone with me, if he ‘ s still alive then. Take a good look at him. Aren ‘ t you ready to start in time, you ‘ ll be the next who will receive my special treatment.” Ending the conversation he whirled around, staring at Franks dead body, still lying untouched in the corner.” “I ‘ m surrounded by idiots. Couldn ‘ t anybody put out the order to get rid of this?” He looked at Chase again. “Bring him to the plane. He will provide for a little encouragement. And if he survives, I ‘ ll keep him, South America can be so boring... ” Chase felt lifted up and dragged forward. He tried to move, but each effort seemed to increase the pain. He begged silently for unconsciousness, but received no mercy. On the contrary, the cold night air woke him up, when it touched his damaged skin. “The guy is disgusting,” one of the men mentioned when they hastened forward. “He ‘ s bleeding all over me. What if I catch something from the bastard.” “The boss won ‘ t be that stupid.” The answer came at once. “The boss is getting mad, have you listened to his words?” “Shut up, or do you wanna die, “ the other man hissed, took a blanket and threw it over Chase before he shoved him on the backseat of a dirty car. “You don ‘ t need to touch him, if you ‘ re such a pussy,” he smirked. “Just drive him to the plane and make sure, that the boss will be able to start soon. Otherwise he ‘ ll kill us all, I have no doubt.” The short ride shook Chase from head to toe, until he finally found himself dragged out of the vehicle and pushed into the plane. “Yes Sir, no problem... 15 minutes, 10... don ‘ t worry. I ‘ ll be ready in time.” Chase rolled aside, moved into the shadows, struggled to stand up. His knees shook and his body trembled, but in this moment he discovered his chance. 10 minutes might be not much, and he still was handcuffed, but at least he had to try. He scanned his surroundings, a privatjet... nothing extraordinary, which was his luck. Only few places could contain, what he searched for and trying to avoid any noise he opened drawers and cupboards, until he found in an integrated box under a velvet bench what he was looking for. The weapon was loaded and Chase hid it under his blanket, cowered in the shadows, awaiting the guard remembering him. “Don ‘ t talk... fix it..., “the man snorted and entered the plane. In the same moment the first shot flashed through the air, caused the guard to stumble more in shock and confusion. The second shot met him into the chest. “What ‘ s happening?” A frightened voice was heard, followed by silence, when the mechanic obviously preferred to stay away from the danger. Chase held his breath and turned the gun like he had been taught years ago, when he had been trained for comparable situations. He pointed it away from his body, but directed it on the chains handicapping him. He bit his lips, when he fired, feeling the heat burn his skin. Two more shots and he was free, propped himself on his hurting hands when he staggered forward. Suppressing a sob, suppressing the pain, suppressing each further thought he grabbed the weapon and headed outside, moved blindly, fell, stood up, knowing each delay could turn out to be his downfall.
The plain seemed to be endless, when he tripped forwards, unsure about way or direction, heading for the blackness, where it appeared to be the darkest.
“Who is it? Stop or I ‘ ll shoot.” The voice bellowed out from the nothingness. Chase fired instinctively, sank on his knees, heard another body hit the ground with a hollow sound. He crawled forward, reached for the dead man, checked blindly for his pulse. When he received none, he quickly searched his pockets, removed with shivering hands the jacket, slipped inside finding a cell phone starting to make noise. “What ‘ s up there? Heard some shooting... .” Chase muffled his voice with the jacket sleeve. “Everything ‘ s alright, just a mistake,” he murmured low, cutting the connection. He tried to calm down, to slow his breathe unsure about what to do. Something happened, he heard people shouting in anger and confusion, he had no time for consideration. He dialed a number, silently praying for a quick response. “Almeida?” “It ‘ s Chase... Edmunds. Is it the truth? Is Jack alive?” “Who? ... what are you talking about... Chase... ?” “There are things going on with him and the presiden... a danger... I can ‘ t remember... .” Chases mind fogged in exhaustion, his thoughts whirled, when he tried to make sense to himself. “Are you alright, Chase?” Tony sounded worried. “I ‘ m ... . You have to contact CTU, Jack ‘ s in danger... it ‘ s Connors... he ‘ s behind.” “Chase, calm down... where the hell are you?” The phone slipped from his fingers, when suddenly lights flashed through the darkness. Chase pressed himself flatly on the ground, using the sudden possibility to take a look. Not far away he saw a cabin and started to crawl there. Same moment the engines of the plane started and despite all Chase smirked shortly. The son of a bitch would have to make a decision and he wouldn ‘ t be pleased. Cars crossed the field, obviously unsure about where to search. Chase climbed through a broken window into the cabin, more kind of a larder. He found the darkest corner, laid his weapons next to him and waited for the men to come.
* * * * *
He heard the shootings from far away. Chloe had destined the place, the call had come from, very fast. He was glad, that she had decided to work longer, had been able to use CTU equipment for her research, otherwise it would have taken an immense effort and much more time to achieve a result. This was one of the rare occasions, when he regretted the fact he was refused any access to the technology he had been accustomed to for the past long years. Cursing he turned the wheel into the direction where he presumed the source of the noise. Looking around he could swear, there existed no area more abandoned than this godforsaken place outside of Los Angeles. He was clearly worried. Chase had sounded scared, not only scared, but also scaring and Tony wondered, if he might be in bigger problems than he had supposed until this moment, if it was possible, that he might had lost his mind. Left alone the fact, that from all the people in this city he had decided to call him, and that probably mainly for one reason... to ask him for Jack. Tony cursed again. He had no idea, what Chase had been doing during the past months, had been content with Bill telling him, that he had accepted an offer from North. Had seemed to be the perfect chance for Chase to free himself from the past, to make a new start like Kim had done with Barry, leaving it all behind, no looking back. Tony had checked on Kims new friend and found out that, though he had his doubts, Kim could have chosen worse. Probably it had been nothing else but an act of compensation, when she had searched for a father figure, but on the other hand... it would be understandable after the experiences she ‘ d already made.
But Chase... , he had banned him from his thoughts. Damnit - a young man, tough agent, what had Tony been expected to do? What could have happened? And why had he turned up, returned suddenly to L.A. without letting anyone know?
He opened his phone with one hand. “Chloe, do me a favor... check on Chases job. Probably someone from Division must have recommended him to Washington or Boston, I can ‘ t remember. At least, you should be able to find something in the files.” “Done! And hurry up! You know, that I ‘ m not allowed to do this without reasoning. The new guy already watches me with suspicion. ... Or you decide to go for the permission, which would make things easier.” “Chloe - I won ‘ t get one, and certainly not in time. Besides I still don ‘ t know what to make of this.” Chloe sounded quite unnerved, when she spoke again. “When you are trying to ruin his career by telling nonsense or blowing up a cover... I will never forgive you! Don ‘ t think, I hadn ‘ t noticed that you two had trouble.” “I have no intention to harm him, don ‘ t worry. I ‘ m only making sure that he ‘s okay!” He clapped his phone shut, doubting his own words in earnest. Nevertheless Chloe was right. There existed a possibility, that his interference would ruin something, Chases work or at least his reputation. Again he cursed the time he ‘ d lost by leaving the guy alone. Maybe Chase had been drunk, drugged or in bad company. He could imagine a lot of explanations for his weird call. And then he shouldn ‘ t forget how similar the guy was to Jack. If he rejected help, no one in the world would be able to give it to him, especially not Tony. But then again there existed the question why he had adressed him.
Tony slowed the pace. He was close to the signal. The distant shootings had stopped a while ago, the flashes of glaring light vanished. A plane had started, which wasn ‘ t unusual in this area. Their money allowed the landowners to start or land whenever they wished to, as long as they considered a few rules. Tony threw a last glance on his computer screen, grabbed his weapons and left the car. Soon he found the lost phone lying in the damp grass, dared to use his flashlight for an instant. Blood sticked to the object, not yet dried. Tony startled, when he suddenly heard the gunfire again, this time closer. Without further hesitation he prepared his weapon and headed carefully into the direction of the noise. Silverblue flashes illuminated the field for seconds before it became dark again. Husky voices cried orders, heavy armed men tried to reach a special place, cursed audibly when they were impeded by a hail of bullets. Tony needed not much fantasy to be able to imagine what was going on. He sneaked nearer, approached slowly the source of the sounds. Soon he was able to estimate the number of attacking men in army suits, stopped for an instant only to screw silencers on his guns, before he placed one in his holster, pointed the other one into the direction of the battle, while he moved silently closer using each protection he could get. The moon still was hidden by clouds,, so he had to wait for the sudden flaming lights of the gunfire to receive an impression of the situation. But he presumed the attackers to be better equipped, to own instruments, which would allow them to discover him in spite of the dark night, and therefore he tried to exclude any dangers as much as possible.
The men weren ‘ t organized. He noticed soon, that they also weren ‘ t acting with a plan. Impatiently they tried to storm their aim in irregular distances. But paying attention to their number or ammunition or the way they seemed to have enclosed their victim, everyone besieged by them, would be forced to accept his defeat a long time before dawn.
* * * * * Chase sensed them coming nearer. He didn ‘ t know how many they were, if he had hit one of them or what they had in their minds. He only knew, that sooner or later he would be running out of ammunition, that he wouldn ‘ t be able to stop them, that he had to prepare for them to take him. But before he would allow this to happen, he would prefer to be shot at first.
He listened into the sudden silence, which frightened him more than the rough sounds of the gunfire before. From his corner he watched the door and the single window, ready to fire on each intruder, who would dare to enter the cabin. Two guns in his possession, he saved the one with one last single bullet left for himself, for his last escape, shoved it into the inner pocket of his jacket, making sure, that he could reach it instantaneously, if he needed to. He slowed his respiration, concentrated on his task, prepared for the inevitable. The door opened and he shot, cold blooded, fired on the moving shadows until his gun was empty. Then he rised slowly and stepped out of his corner, ready to meet his destiny.
The bullet hit him in the shoulder, but he felt nothing, when his feet couldn ‘ t hold his weight anymore, when he stumbled and fell.
* * * * * Tony had acted in his cool, distant manner, circled the cabin until he had discovered the man, who stood behind the most. The noise of the next salvo he had used to eliminate him, only to pursue his next aim patiently and quiet. It had taken some time until the remaining men had noticed the dimunition of their superiority. Suddenly their attention had to be parted between two parties and sooner than they had been able to react, Tonys gun nearly had finished its job. He caught the last two men after they had broken the door. Shots from inside the hut, one of them staggered. Both fired like mad men. Tony aimed, let his breath out, shot, shot again, watched the suddenly slack bodies sink to the ground. Silence. Tony held his breath and listened. No sound aubible, no sign of life anymore. “Chase?” He carefully stepped closer, the gun in front of him, ready to fire, expecting another enemy to show up. “Chase... it ‘ s me! I ‘ m coming in now. Don ‘ t shoot!” Slowly he moved forward. Climbing over the two massive figures draped in front of him, finally entering the small building. “Chase!” He called him again, unsure what to expect, unable to recognize something in the dark. The smoke from the gunfire filled the air, caused him to cough, but he continued his search, though the sharp smell burnt in his lungs.
“Chase, I have a light, I ‘ ll switch it on now.” The torch flickered. Another limp body in the corner, on the ground, face down. “Chase!” Tony hastened closer, feared the worst. “Damnit, kid!” He shouted out, fell on his knees beside the motionless man. Shivering he searched for a pulse.
Low and feeble he sensed the fainting signs of life. “Hold on, boy!” Carefully he turned him on his back, taking a look at the damage. “What the... ,” he hissed with the first impression. The boy bleeded, had injuries over his whole body. And he was naked under the wide army jacket. His shoulder and side showed two angry bullet wounds, hopefully not life threatening, but bleeding conspiciously. “The bastards,” Tony ranted furiously while he desperately was looking for appropriate material to stop the red stream. Chase sighed and trembled. “That ‘ s right. Stay with me, help is on its way.” He found some fabric, he quickly ripped in stripes, pressed some clean tissues on the injuries and fixed them. Chase winced in pain. “Stay awake! I need you to hold the bandages in place.” With one hand he pressed the lower wound shut, reached for his phone. “I need surgery quickly. Agent shot, probably tortured. Hurry up!” Chase groaned, then opened his eyes. Tony smiled at him. “Glad you ‘ re back. Hold this tight!” He directed the younger mans hand to his shoulder, assured him. “Just hold this, you ‘ ll be okay soon.” “Jack!” Chase croaked. Tony glanced at him, his eyes shining dark in the thin light of the single torch. “He ‘ s okay too. Don ‘ t worry, son,” Tony answered finally. Chase closed his eyes in relief. “Thank God,” he whispered and a nearly visible smile spread on his tormented features. “You have to stay awake, Chase, you ’ ve lost a lot of blood.” The younger mans eyelids flickered, when he tried to stay conscious, clearly near to pass out again. “Talk to me - tell me what you know! Who are those people?” Chase coughed and tried to sit up. “Easy, Chase, careful!” Chases eyes shot open, when he reached for Tonys shoulder. “You have to help them... Jack... President Palmer... .” “Calm down, Chase, they are both fine. Everything ‘ s alright.You fixed it, remember? Jack and you... together... .” “No... ,” Chase moved frantically. “Calm down, Chase, for heavens sake, be careful, you ‘ re bleeding all over. I don ‘ t want to put you in any more danger, I ‘ m ...I ‘ m HIV- positive.” “What?” Chase stopped his movements, stared at him in disbelief. “No, you aren ‘ t!” “It ‘ s okay, boy, just don ‘ t make me bleed somewhere, alright?” Chase again tried to get up, when a small yelp escaped his lips. Tony reacted immediately, whirled around and fired. He hit one man in his chest, the other one in the head. They fell down, their cries muffled, when they crumpled on the floor. Tony shot again, before he turned back to Chase. “You ‘ re okay?” Chase nodded silently. “Wait a second!” Tony slipped out of his Security jacket, wrapped it around Chase and helped him to rise. “Help will be here soon - you only need to stay awake.” “Tony?” The dark-haired supported him on his way out of the dusky building. Finally, when they had passed the dead bodies in the entrance, he met his eyes, shimmering in the silver light of the moon, when in the distance the echoes of the arriving ambulance could be heard. “Thank you, Tony!” The older man smiled touched. “Come on - you ‘ ve made it.”
* * * * *
When the medical staff had taken over, assured him, that he had arrived in time, that they would sedate and take Chase to the hospital, Tony hurried back to his car. “What ‘ s the matter? What can I do?” “Nothing, Chloe! You ‘ ve done enough tonight. Get some rest. Chase will be in hospital, but there is no danger for him. He has to calm down and will be interviewed tomorrow. There is nothing any of us can do.” “What did he say?” “Very little. Mainly about Jack and Palmer, but I suppose he wasn ‘ t clear.” Tony hesitated for a moment. “Chloe... I ‘ m sorry, but I have to tell you. Chase escaped torture, maybe he had been drugged. We won ‘ t know until tomorrow. The place here is checked up and secured, but yet nothing had been found. What about you?” Chloe swallowed hard, returned to professionalism. “I found some connection to a New York department, known for their dealing with undercover agents. But couldn ‘ t get a grip on someone responsible yet. Some secured files told me that Chase had worked for them a while ago. But then the entries stopped suddenly without explanation. “ “Looks very much like he tried something on his own, like... .” “Like Jack?” Tony sighed. “Leave a report for Bill. I will come in in the morning, to tell him the rest. Need to see Michelle now, and you should go home, too. We can ‘ t do anything tonight. Danger is banned, so we need to rest before making any further decisions. “Ok,” Chloe agreed, glancing to Spencer, who suppressed a yawning. She wasn ‘ t sure, if she was able to sleep now. “I ‘ ve sent you my results! See you tomorrow then.” Tony laid the phone down and switched on his laptop looking for the promised information, mainly to distract himself from the horrible pictures whirling through his mind. What if Chase had spoken the truth, at least in some points, if he hadn ‘ t mixed up his vivid past with an actual real life nightmare, like he ‘ d expressed it to Chloe? What if he really had discovered something about Connors? Tony shuddered. The coldness of the night forced its way through his body, reached his bones, penetrating them to the mark. What if... he pressed his eyes shut. No, he won ‘ t think about what had happened to him in prison, what could have happened to Chase. He had buried the memory deeper than he had supposed to, and he hurried to shove it back soon. It would make no sense to torment himself with questions, that can ‘ t be solved now. There would be time enough. Tony ran his fingers through his damp curls. He would talk to Michelle and... she would put his thoughts in order. And then... then he had to tell Jack, no way to hide it in front of him. But at first he had to figure out if it was his fault, if his decision to protect Michelle, to drop the case... . He shook his head violently. No, there had been no other way for them all. Though he knew very well, that things would look quite different, if Jack hadn ‘ t been forced to stay away, if he had had the possibility to keep an eye on... . He rubbed his forehead, stared blindly on the monitor, until his sight fell on a name, he recognized. Quickly he typed in a message, considered it a moment and sent it with a copy to Bill. He had worked successfully with Woodside years ago, certainly the New Yorker would be able to help him. If Chase had worked in his department, he would know very soon in which trouble the guy had been. Tony started his car. He needed to see Michelle. And he needed Jack. Maybe Chase had talked weird for a reason, to remind him of the connection between Jack and Palmer, to urge him to take action, to use Davids upcoming visit in L.A. to remember him on his possibilities. If his brothers influence increased, if Wayne decided to candidate for presidency soon, things might change fast. Tony smiled bitterly. Anyway he ‘ d learned his lesson. He promised to the invisible powers, that he wouldn ‘ t let Chase down again. As soon as he would be allowed to see him, he would do it, would do for him whatever necessary. He let his breath out, when he felt exhaustion take over. His last thoughts he sent to Jack, before he drove the car into his garage, before he returned to his wife to regain peace and strength in her comfort.