New
Arrivals
Author-Suzie
Titles
Tutor
by Suzie
Summary: Blair gets a job tutoring, but gets more than he bargained for. #3 in the Grades series.
Disclaimer: Some of the characters in this story belong to the UPN Network and Pet Fly Productions as part of the television show The Sentinel. I do not claim these characters as my own. No money has changed hands.
Notes: The *Comma Queen* Humbly Thanks The *Beta Beast* <G>
"Okay Laura, that'll do it for this week," Blair told the fourteen-year-old girl. "You're really improving. It's easy to see you're comprehension is much better."
"Thanks Mr. Sandburg, my parents appreciate it," the young girl said.
"But do *you* appreciate it?"
Laura smiled then, "Yeah ... I didn't mean it that way. It's just that ... sometimes ... mom and dad seem to care more about the grades then me. It's like good grades give them better bragging rights."
Blair slid the books they'd been using into his backpack, "Oh I'm sure that's not completely true Laura. Sure, good grades give them something extra to be proud of, but they want you to learn, and be happy with yourself."
Laura nodded silently. I wish I believed that.
"See you next Wednesday then."
"Same bat time ... same bat channel," Laura grinned.
**********
Later that same week on Friday evening, Blair was working on his laptop at the dining table when someone began pounding at the door. He jumped at the sudden, loud sound, then stood calling, “Coming!”
The pounding continued, rattling the door on its hinges.
“Hey!” Blair yelled, annoyed now, as he hurried to the door. “That’s enough!” He yanked open the door, “What *is* the prob …”
A fist slamming into his nose cut off Blair's question. With a yelp of pained surprise Blair slumped to his knees. Hands pulled him up, and he vaguely heard the door slam shut. Dazed and confused, with blood flowing from his broken nose, Blair couldn't fight back.
“Mr. Crawford?!” Blair gasped when he could finally focus. “Wha’ the hell goin’ on man?!” He tried to move away from the obviously angry man, but two other men held Blair’s arms, keeping any struggle to a minimum. “Mr. Crawford?”
A fist slammed into Blair’s stomach, lifting him off the floor. As all the air rushed out of his body, his knees buckled. But he was held upright, and the fist struck again.
**********
Jim unconsciously scanned the loft for his Guide, as he always did when he came home without his partner at his side. Jim sensed his friend’s slow, sluggish heartbeat and frowned instantly concerned. As he reached the door to the loft, he smelled blood.
Automatically Jim drew his gun sweeping the loft with his senses, as he opened the unlocked door. He was met by the sight of Blair curled up on his side on the floor. He was turned facing the back of the sofa with one arm up covering his face, the other protectively wrapped around his stomach. A small puddle of blood under his head pooled on the floor.
“Blair!?” Jim cried, as he quickly moved to his friend’s side. His senses told him that there was no one else in the loft. Gently, Jim rolled the unconscious man onto his back. “Blair?” The detective was horrified at what he saw. Blair’s face was covered with blood. He quickly checked, and found that his friend's nose was broken. “Oh God Chief … what’s happened?” Jim whispered, as he pulled his cell phone out of his pocket.
**********
The doctor entered the Emergency Room waiting area. “Detective Ellison?”
Jim stood, “Yes, I’m Ellison.”
The doctor stepped forward, hand outstretched, “I’m Dr. Hail.”
Jim shook the hand saying, “How’s Blair?”
“Your friend has a broken nose, five stitches under his right eye, and badly bruised stomach, and ribs. Nothing that won’t heal, but it will take a little time. He’s conscious, and is asking for you.”
“Can I see him?”
“I think you should. Mr. Sandburg is pretty doped up right now, and he won’t remember you being here. But he’s been insisting on speaking to you since he woke up. He’s in room 210, one flight up.”
Jim shook the doctor’s hand again gratefully, “Thank you.”
“That’s what I’m here for.” Dr. Hail prepared to turn then looked at Jim again and said, “Just catch whoever did this.”
“Oh, I intend to,” Jim growled.
**********
Jim stopped for a moment outside room 210 to catch his breath and collect himself. When he pushed the door open and stepped inside, the sight that met him forced a him to gasp quietly.
Blair lay propped up in the bed. A bandage covered his broken nose, purple bruises circled both eyes, and five tiny stitches stood out against pale skin. Blair’s jaws and chin wore black and blue marks. Jim noticed bruises circling his partner's upper arms peeking from under the sleeves of the gown.
Jim found his composure folding, as he stepped to the side of the bed. He laid a shaky hand on Blair's forehead and brushed the tangled curls off his face.
Blair opened one swollen, unfocused eye. "Need Jim," he whispered. "Please ..."
Jim took a cold hand in his own. "Easy Chief, I'm right here," he said gently.
Blair frowned, trying to bring the big man into focus. "Jim?"
"Shh buddy, you're gonna be okay."
Blair hand closed weakly around Jim's, as he pushed the words out with difficulty, "Caw ... fod."
"What?" Jim's heart skipped a beat, then sped up.
"It ... was ... Cawfod."
"Blair, what are you trying to say? You know who did this?"
"Yes ... Cawfod."
"Cawfod? Who is Cawfod Chief? Someone at the university?"
"No ... Cawfod," Blair said, trying unsuccessfully to pronounce the name correctly. "Tutor ... for ... them."
Jim's brow creased, as he thought. Who the hell is ... Then it came to him, "You're trying to say Crawford? You tutor their daughter right?"
Blair managed a barely perceptible nod, as he was quickly loosing his battle to stay awake. He had let himself relax as soon as he knew Jim was there.
"Do you know why Chief?"
"No ... he ... didn't ... say," Blair mumbled, drifting into darkness.
"Don't worry buddy," Jim whispered. "I'll find out." He gave the slackened hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it. "You rest, I'll be back soon."
As Jim left the room, and headed down the hallway, he heard a familiar voice behind him.
"Jim, wait up there," Simon called, walking quickly to catch the detective.
Jim stopped, and waited for his Captain before saying, "Hey Simon, thanks for coming."
"No problem, I came has soon as I got the message," Simon said. "How is he?"
Jim sighed, "Hurt ... bad, but the doctor says he'll recover fine. He's asleep now."
"Did he say anything?"
"He knows the man who did it," Jim replied, as his anger bubbled to the surface unchecked. "The bastard's name is Crawford. Blair tutors his daughter every Wednesday."
Simon was working hard to keep his own anger under control. "Any idea why this happened."
"No ... but I intend to find out," Jim growled dangerously.
"I can't let you do it Jim, you're too close to this. Just tell me where the bastard lives, and I'll take care of it myself."
Jim saw the smoldering emotions in the Captain's eyes, and knew he was right. "The address is at the loft ... in Blair's address book."
"You stay here with Sandburg." Simon jingled the keys in his coat pocket, "I've got a key to the loft. Where's this address book?"
"He keeps it in his backpack."
Simon gave a sharp nod and turned to walk away, when Jim caught him by the arm.
"Thank you sir," Jim said quietly, gratefully.
Simon patted the hand that held his arm, "He's my friend too, Jim."
They locked eyes for a moment, drawing strength from each other.
"I'll call as soon as I have news."
**********
Blair felt something cold press against his face, and a slight pressure over his right eye forced a soft moan from him.
"Blair?" Jim whispered, as he removed the cold pack from Blair's face. "You awake buddy?"
Blair opened his left eye as far as the swelling would allow.
Hey Chief," Jim smiled slightly, relieved to have his friend awake. "Welcome back."
"Jim?" Blair mumbled past swollen, broken lips. He winced as he tried to take a breath.
"Easy there, you're pretty badly bruised. Take shallow breaths." Jim held a straw to Blair's lips. "Here, take a sip."
Blair complied gratefully. The water slid down his throat, easing the dryness.
Jim set the cup aside, then gently smoothed the hair from around Blair's face. "How do you feel?"
"Like I've ... been through ... a ringer," Blair replied, taking short breaths. "Twice."
"Doctor says you're gonna be all right, but you need to stay here for a day or so."
"Jim, I know ..."
"You told me last night," Jim interrupted, not wanting Blair to talk too much. "Simon had Crawford picked up."
Blair let out a small gasp, and a moan.
Jim glanced at his watch, "It's time for your pain meds." He pushed the call button.
"Yes detective?" a pleasant voice asked through the intercom.
"Mr. Sandburg is awake, and could use some pain medication," Jim replied.
"I'll be right there."
"What about ... the others," Blair asked.
"You didn't mention any others Chief," Jim frowned.
A cramp seized Blair's bruised abdomen, and he cried out, bringing his knees up.
Jim grasped one hand, letting Blair squeeze it with all the intensity he could muster.
"Easy does it. Don't hold your breath Blair," Jim encouraged, gently stroking the back of the hand. "Just breathe ... in ... out ..."
Blair took short, shallow breaths with Jim's coaching. Slowly the cramp dissipated, leaving Blair feeling totally drained. "God Jim ..."
"Shh, try to relax."
Nurse Ritz arrived, checked Blair's vitals, the IV, etc. Jim reported the painful cramp Blair had just experienced.
Nurse Ritz was a very motherly, middle aged woman. She smiled gently while administering the medication through the IV tube and said, "This will let you rest Mr. Sandburg. I'll let the doctor know about the cramping, but it's normal when muscles are badly bruised." When she was finished, she quickly straightened the bed covers, and told Jim, "He needs to rest detective ... and so do you."
Jim smiled, "I'll leave as soon as he falls asleep ... I promise."
Nurse Ritz returned the smile, "Okay, but if I don't see you walk by the nurses station in five minutes, I'll be back in here to kick your butt out."
"Yes ma'am," Jim said with a salute ... and another smile.
"Take it ... you been here ... awhile?" Blair asked when the nurse was gone.
"Yeah ... awhile," Jim replied. He'd been there all night, but he wasn't going to tell Blair that. The young man worried too much about him when he didn't sleep. "How many were there Chief? Can you remember?"
The medication was already taking affect, and Blair fought to focus on what he was saying. "There were ... three. Crawford did the ... hitting ... the others ... just ..."
"I understand." Jim had seen the ugly bruises on Blair's arms that indicated he'd been held. This only confirmed his speculations. "Did you recognize the others?"
Blair was losing the battle, drifting toward sleep now. " No ... don't ... know ... who ..."
"You rest now," Jim whispered, pulling the blanket up around his sleeping Guide's shoulders, settling the cold packs around his face. "We'll get 'em partner, I promise." Then Jim left; making sure Nurse Ritz saw him as he passed the nurses station.
**********
It was 9:30am when Jim walked into Major Crimes. He hadn't heard from Simon yet, and he couldn't just sit around the loft waiting ... especially when he hadn't gone there.
"Hey Jim, how's Hairboy?" Detective Henri Brown asked.
"He's doing as well as can be expected," Jim replied, smiling at the nickname. The pager on his belt let out a series of loud beeps. Jim looked at the numbers displayed. "Later H."
Henri nodded at Jim's retreating back.
Jim knocked on the office door, then stuck his head inside. "You paged sir."
"Jim!" the Captain said, surprised. "I didn't know you were here. How's the kid doing?"
Jim stepped inside, closing the door behind him. "Obviously," he smiled. "Sleeping mostly, with the drugs they've got him on. I thought I'd see what was going on with Crawford before I went home."
"Well, I had Crawford picked up last night as soon as I had the address. He admits to what happened."
"What ..." Jim's face darkened with anger, as he snarled, "Is he proud of it!?!"
"There's more Jim," Simon sighed. "You're *not* going to like it."
"I already don't like it sir!"
"In his statement Crawford says that his daughter, Laura, is pregnant."
Jim glared silently at his Captain.
"The girl says that Sandburg is the father."
"WHAT! I saw her a few weeks ago when I dropped Blair off at the house ... she's maybe twelve or thirteen!" Jim stated angrily.
"She's fourteen, and she says that Sandburg forced himself on her," Simon said, preparing for what was coming.
"RAPE?!?" Jim exploded. "No way Simon!! Blair would never ... she's a child!! Good God sir, you can't possibly believe that ..."
"Of course I don't believe it," Simon said, trying to stay calm. "But I have to follow up on it."
"Where's Crawford?"
"Being held for attempted murder."
"I want to talk to him Simon."
"NO! Definitely not! You are *not* on this case Jim."
Jim paced the office like a caged animal, trying to control his rage. Of course he knew that he was way too close to handle this as part of his job, but if he could just ...
"Jim!" Simon called loudly, blocking the big man's path by standing in front of him.
Jim stopped in his tracks, staring at the Captain.
"Don't you dare zone out on me Ellison!"
Jim blinked several times to clear his head. "Sorry sir."
"How long has Blair been tutoring the girl?"
Jim scrubbed his hands over his face. "Uh ..." God I'm tired! "About four months now."
"I want you to go home, and get some sleep. I'll keep you informed."
Jim suddenly remembered what Blair had told him, "Did Crawford say anything about two other men?"
Simon checked the statement on his desk, then answered, "No ... no he didn't. Why?"
"Blair said that two other men held him while Crawford did the beating."
"He must have ... *forgotten* that little detail," Simon scowled. "I'll ask him about it personally."
"I'm going to stop by the loft, then go back to the hospital. I don't want him to be alone with this ... and I don't want him to hear it from anyone but me."
Simon's frown deepened, and he opened his mouth to protest.
Jim held a hand up to stop the coming lecture, "I'm not going to be able to sleep ... not for awhile anyway. I'm going home to shower, change clothes, and eat something."
**********
"According to your victim you had two men helping you," Simon said to the man sitting in handcuffs at the table in the interrogation room.
Reese Crawford glared up at the Captain, saying, "Then I guess there were two men with me ... weren't there?"
"Who are they Mr. Crawford?"
"I should have killed him right then ... I wanted to ... believe me, but I wanted him to suffer."
"Who were the men that were with you?" Simon questioned impatiently, chewing on his cigar.
"He deserved what I gave him! Wouldn't you want revenge if it were your child Captain?" Crawford spat.
Simon closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath in an attempt to calm down. "*Wanting* revenge, and actually carrying it out are two totally different things. *I Want* revenge for what you did to Blair Sandburg ... but I'm not going to act on it." Then he grinned wickedly, leaning down across the table to whisper, "That's just *me* though you understand. There are *others* that have less control than I do ... and I can't be *everywhere* at once to keep an eye on them." Simon took a quick pull on the cigar, blowing the smoke into Crawford's face.
Crawford coughed, paling slightly. "I'm not saying anything more until I talk to my attorney," he stated flatly.
"I'll have a phone brought in to you," Simon said, then promptly left the room.
**********
When Jim returned to the hospital a few hours later, he found Blair sleeping quietly. He noticed the cold packs were missing, but a bit of the swelling had already receded. Gently placing a hand on Blair's chest, Jim stood quietly for a minute just to feel, and listen to his friend's heartbeat.
Jim woke from a light doze when he heard Blair's moan. He moved to the edge to the bed, taking Blair's smaller hand in his own. "Hey Chief, you awake?" Jim asked quietly.
Blair squeezed Jim's hand, opening his left eye. "Jim, I'm glad ... you're back." Blair gasped as a cramp clinched in his stomach.
"Want me to get the nurse?" Jim asked, concerned.
"No ... I'm okay. Just ... give me ... a sec."
Less than a minute passed, and the cramp was easing.
"You sure you don't want me to ring the nurse?" Jim asked.
"I'm sure." Blair managed a small smile, "Don't want ... drugs. I'm ... tired of ... sleeping."
"Guess I can't blame you," Jim said. "You've slept all day."
"What time ... is it?"
Jim looked at his watch, "8:30, you've been here about twenty-four hours now."
"I need to ... get up," Blair said, as he began to scoot slowly to the edge of the bed.
"You sure you want to get up to do this Chief?" Jim pointed to the bottle hanging from the bedside rail.
"I am *not* ... peeing in ... that thing!" Blair insisted. "Besides ... the nurse ... helped me ... while you were gone."
Jim couldn't help but smile, as he helped the young man slide off the bed. Blair pushed the IV pole in front of him as Jim helped support him. It was only a few feet to the bathroom, but to Blair it felt like a marathon.
"You gonna be okay now?" Jim asked after getting Blair situated.
"Yeah ... thanks Jim," Blair replied.
Jim left Blair to his privacy, but kept his hearing open.
"Jim ... I don't remember much ... about what I told you," Blair said quietly, knowing the Sentinel would hear him.
"Simon had Crawford picked up, but he won't tell us who the other two are," Jim replied.
Blair groaned softly as he stood up. After flushing the toilet, he managed to get to the sink next to him to wash his hands, but that was all he could do on his own. "Jim ... help."
Jim was there before the words were completely out. "Easy does it," he said, carefully supporting Blair's shaky body as they made their way back to bed.
Blair lay back, letting Jim pull the covers around him, and checking the IV. It didn't take much to exhaust him. "This sucks man."
"Yeah, I know Chief," Jim sighed. He didn't want to do this, but it had to be done. "Blair, did Crawford say *anything* to you as to why this happened?"
Blair thought for a moment, then said, "No ... not a word."
Jim walked to the window to stare out at the darkness.
"Jim ... what did he say?"
The big man didn't move.
"Jim ... please," Blair begged, getting nervous.
Jim pushed a hand through his short hair, then turned back to Blair. Anger filled him again, as he looked at his friend's battered face. Though the swelling was going down quickly, and he could open his left eye nearly all the way now, Blair's right eye was still swollen shut. The bandage did little to hide the purple bruising on his broken nose. "Blair ... this is hard for me," Jim finally said. "And I want you to know that if I thought ... for even one second ... that it was true, I would not be here right now."
Blair swallowed hard. He was scared now. "What did ... Mr. Crawford say?"
Jim sucked in a big breath of air, then started, "It's about his daughter. The girl you tutor."
"Yeah ... Laura?"
"Uh huh. Did you know she's pregnant?"
Blair was shocked. "No I didn't know. God ... she's only fourteen!"
"Chief, she claims you did it," Jim said quickly.
Blair's mouth opened, but no words came out. He didn't know what to say, as his breathing increased, sending sharp little stabs of pain through his abdomen.
Jim crossed to the bed, and sat carefully on the edge, "I need you to calm down, and listen."
Blair managed a slight nod, willing his breathing to slow.
"Laura claims that you ..." Jim had trouble getting the words out. "She claims that you ... forced yourself on her."
"Oh ... God," Blair whispered, staring with disbelief at the detective. "I never ... I could never ... Jim ... I ..."
"Shh now," Jim tried to sooth, rubbing the back of Blair's hand lightly. "I know you didn't do it. Simon knows you didn't do it."
"But Jim ... she's saying I ... *raped* her!" Blair gasped out, horrorfied. "We were never ... alone in the house! Her parents were ... *always* there! I never ... touched her Jim!"
"I know that Chief. We're going to figure this out."
Jim heard the door open, and turned to see Simon step into the room.
"You told him?" Simon asked, already knowing the answer.
Jim simply nodded.
"There's more. I was contacted by Rainier University a little while ago."
Blair turned to look at the Captain, "They know?"
Simon nodded, "Apparently Crawford called the University's Administration before we picked him up. They, in turn, contacted me for conformation."
"I've been ... kicked out ... fired?" Blair's voice trembled.
"Suspended until the outcome of the case," Simon answered quietly.
Blair's head fell back against the pillows, and stared at Jim, "What am I ... gonna do man?"
"Right now *your* job is to get well," Jim said. "Simon and the others will deal with the case."
Blair looked at the detective questioningly.
"I'm too close to this one Chief. It would be dangerous to let me work on this." I'd kill all three of them with my bare hands if I got close to them.
"One more thing," Simon said. "Since we can't find the other two that were involved, we have to assume that they may want to finish what Crawford started. I've posted a uniform in the hall."
"Thank you sir," Jim said.
"I want to ... go home Jim," Blair said shakily.
"We'll see in the morning, okay?"
Blair shook his head.
"There's an officer just outside the door, and I'm not going anywhere," Jim told him. "You rest now."
**********
Monday morning found Blair feeling a little better ... physically.
"Well, I don't see any reason why you shouldn't go home, Mr. Sandburg," Dr. Hail smiled as he checked Blair's eyes with a small flashlight after removing the stitches from under his right eye. "The swelling is going down nicely, but your vision may be slightly blurry for a couple more days," he continued while he placed a small butterfly bandage where the stitches had been. "Your tests, and x-rays don't show any complications, but you still need to rest for at least the next week. Absolutely *no* lifting, or straining on those abdominal muscles, and ribs for at least six weeks."
"Okay," Blair agreed. Anything to get outta here.
"I'll have the prescription filled for your pain pills. You'll have them when you leave." Dr. Hail shook Blair's hand.
Jim entered the room carrying an overnight bag, as the doctor was leaving.
"Simon was just here. He brought you a pair of clean sweats, underwear, and shoes," Jim said, setting the bag on the bed.
"That was nice of him," Blair smiled, slowly swinging his legs over the side of the bed. "Isn't the arraignment this morning?"
"Yeah, he's on his way there now. You need help getting dressed?"
"Yes please ... thanks Jim."
The trip home was enough to wear Blair out. He slumped against Jim, as they rode the elevator up to the third floor. "Ah man Jim ... I need to lay down," Blair groaned.
Jim wrapped one arm around the smaller man for added support, feeling the tremors run through him. "Hang in there for another minute buddy. We're almost to the loft."
**********
"Jim the arraignment did *not* go well," Simon told him. "Crawford's attorney convinced the judge that there was no murder attempt. He claims his client lost control when his daughter told him of the rape, and that she is pregnant. The charges against Crawford were reduced to assault."
Jim sighed heavily, "What about charges against Sandburg?"
"Rape ... assault," Simon answered, sounding tired. This isn't right! "Our lawyer got the judge to agree to house arrest, but only because Sandburg lives with a detective, and the fact that he's in no shape to run off. Court date will be set for next month."
"So Crawford made bail?" Jim stated angrily.
"He was out before I left the courthouse Jim," Simon said disgustedly. "I'm sending Megan, and a Social Worker to Crawford's house to question the girl."
**********
Laura Crawford sat between her parents, Reese and Tonya, on the big floral printed sofa. The girl was obviously very nervous.
The Social Worker, Mrs. Breslin, sat in one of the two pale green chairs across from the Crawford's, her briefcase sitting open on the coffee table between them. Inspector Megan Connor sat in the other chair. A tape recorder sat on the table, recording the conversation.
"Laura," Mrs. Breslin started, scanning the paperwork she held. "The doctor's report states that you are three months pregnant."
Laura nodded, "Yes ma'am."
"When did the alleged rape occur? Do you remember?"
Laura turned frightened eyes to her Mother.
"Go ahead sweetheart, tell them what happened," Mrs. Crawford urged gently.
"Was it Mr. Sandburg's first visit? Second?" Mrs. Breslin asked, keeping her voice low, and non-threatening.
"Umm ... it was the fourth time he was here," Laura finally said in a quiet voice.
"Can you tell me what happened?"
"Oh ... ah ... we had just finished going over a chapter in my history book. He was helping me with my homework like always."
Mr. Crawford mumbled something about Blair under his breath.
"What was that Mr. Crawford?" Megan asked, anger flashing in her eyes if not in her voice. "Didn't quite catch what you said there."
The two of them glared at one another for several seconds, before Crawford backed down, saying, "Nothing. It wasn't important."
"That's right, it wasn't," Megan said. Bastard.
"Go on Laura," Mrs. Breslin said.
"Well, Mr. Sandburg started talking about the house. Saying how nice it is, and all ... asking how many rooms ... stuff like that." Laura stared at the floor as she spoke softly. "He asked for a tour of the house." She looked up at her Mother again, "I didn't see any harm. Mr. Sandburg had been so nice to me."
Where were your parents during this?"
"Out on the back patio ... having drinks before dinner."
"Did you show Mr. Sandburg the entire house?"
"Well, I showed him around down here. The kitchen, family room ... we were sitting at the dining room table. Then he asked if he could see my bedroom." Laura's eyes filled with tears.
"Is that where it happened Laura? In your bedroom?" Mrs. Breslin asked.
Laura nodded, sniffling, "Mr. Sandburg closed the door ... he told me he wanted to reward me for studying so hard."
Mrs. Crawford fought for composure, dabbing at her eyes, and nose with a tissue. Mr. Crawford jumped up, and began to pace the room furiously.
"Mr. Sandburg told me not to scream ..." Laura was crying now. "... He said it wouldn't hurt, and I would enjoy it."
"THAT SON-OF-A-BITCH!!" Mr. Crawford raged from the other side of the room. "I should've ..."
Megan stood, facing the man, "You should've what, Mr. Crawford?"
Mr. Crawford's head snapped around to stare at the Inspector, but said nothing more. He stormed out onto the back patio.
"Laura, can you show me your room?" Mrs. Breslin asked carefully.
"Um ... sure, no problem," Laura shrugged, standing to lead the way.
"Do you have a boyfriend Laura?" Mrs. Breslin asked casually with a small smile, as she and Laura entered the small, bright room.
Laura looked up, as she perched herself on the edge of the bed. "Yes, his name is Brian."
"And how old is Brian?"
"Sixteen," Laura replied, a smile played on her lips. "He just got his driver's license 'bout five months ago."
Mrs. Breslin smiled in earnest now, "Does he have a car of his own?"
"No, not yet." Laura giggled, "We usually go out in his mom's car twice a week, and on weekends."
"Sounds like you care a great deal for one another."
"Yes ... we do," Laura blushed.
"Shall we go back downstairs now?"
"Well, I think that's all for today," Mrs. Breslin said when they joined Mrs. Crawford again in the living room. She gathered up her things, and placing them in her briefcase. "Can I come talk to you again Laura ... if I need to?"
Laura nodded, "Yes, I guess so."
Mrs. Breslin clicked off the recorder as she stood. "Thank you for letting us do this, Mrs. Crawford," she said, shaking the woman's hand.
Mrs. Crawford sighed sadly, "Anything to end this nightmare."
**********
Blair wandered slowly out of his bedroom, still groggy after his drugged sleep. It was evening, but the sky outside was not quite completely dark. "Jim, you home?" he called quietly.
Jim was already walking out of the kitchen. "Right here Chief. How you feelin'?" He offered a steadying arm to his still wobbly friend.
Blair took the arm gratefully, "Like I've been asleep for a week, and I'm not awake yet."
Jim helped Blair lower himself into a chair at the dining table, "They gave you some pretty potent stuff before we came home this morning."
"But I *feel* better. I can breathe ... and talking isn't so hard."
Jim smiled, "Hungry?"
"Starved man ... but can take a shower first? I itch, and there's still dried blood in my hair."
"Sure you can deal with a shower?"
Blair smiled slightly, blushing, "Yeah man ... if you'll help me in and out of the tub."
Jim chuckled good naturedly, "No problem Chief."
After getting Blair into the shower, Jim retrieved clean underwear, sweats, and towels. Then put the top down on the toilet, and sat down, deciding not to leave his injured friend alone ... just in case. "I spoke to Simon earlier," Jim mentioned.
"How'd the arraignment go?" Blair asked, as he gently pushed the soap over his bruised body.
"The court reduced the charges to assault, and he's out on bail."
"Oh." It wasn't the reduced charges that bothered him so much as the fact the Crawford was out of jail. "And what about me?"
Jim sighed, not wanting to say the words, "You've been charged with assault ... and rape."
Blair fell silent then, shampooing his hair, being careful not to let the stream of water hit his broken nose or soak the gash under his eye. Maybe I should just stand here, and drown myself, Blair thought, feeling a sting in his eyes that had nothing to do with the water or shampoo.
Jim listened, as his friend's breathing hitched slightly, followed by a muffled sob.
"But I didn't do it," Blair cried softly.
"I know that Chief," Jim said, reaching in to shut off the water, and pulling the curtain back. "It's time to get out," he said, helping Blair out of the tub, and grabbing a towel.
Blair sniffled, trying to get himself under control, as he dried off. Jim took a second towel to gently rub at his hair.
"Now what happens?" Blair asked, his voice thick with emotion.
"The judge will set a court date for next month," Jim stated.
"Next month?" Blair finished drying off, and let the towel drop to the floor. "Jim, how am I ... what about school?" Then he said bitterly, "Oh ... guess it doesn't matter if I'm kicked out."
Jim helped Blair step into his boxers and sweatpants, "Chief, you haven't been 'kicked out' ... just suspended. You'll go back as soon as this mess is over." Straightening, Jim looked into sad blue eyes. "You said it yourself Blair ... you *didn't* do it."
"Okay ... what do I do until I go back?" Blair questioned, as he let the big man help ease the sweatshirt over his head. "If I can't go to school ... that means I don't work."
"We'll deal with that as we need to," Jim stated, as he picked up the towels, and clothes. "Don't worry about it right now. We'll get through this."
Blair blinked at the Sentinel for a moment, then slowly moved to wrap his arms around the big man in a hug. "Thanks Jim, I couldn't ask for a better friend man," he said, the words muffled as he spoke into the broad chest.
Jim returned the embrace, being careful not to squeeze, "Goes both ways my friend." He then gently took the smaller man by the shoulders, pushing him back just enough to look at him. "Let's get something to eat."
**********
Tuesday morning ~ 9am.
Jim pulled open the door before Simon had the chance to knock.
The Captain was startled, as his knuckles knocked at the air. Just missing Jim's chest. "God, I will *never* get used to you doing that!"
Jim chuckled, letting Simon in, and closing the door.
"Where's Sandburg?" Simon asked, as he shrugged out of his coat, and hung it on a hook. "How's he doing?"
"I'm doing fine, Captain," Blair said, as he shuffled out of his room. "Thank you."
Blair did look better. The swelling was gone in his face, *both* eyes were open, and clear. The bruises were showing signs of fading.
"He's still pretty sore, but he's healing," Jim said, an affectionate smile on his face.
"Been getting plenty of rest?" Simon asked, making his way to the living room.
"Jim won't let me do anything else," Blair said with mock disgust.
"Coffee sir?" Jim asked.
"Yeah, that'd be great," Simon smiled, sitting down on the sofa.
"So ... ah, Simon ... what brings you out here this early?" Blair ventured, lowering himself carefully onto the loveseat.
"I received the Social Worker's report about the interview with Laura Crawford," Simon said.
"Um ... and?"
Jim handed a mug of coffee to Simon, before seating himself in the chair across from him.
"It's her opinion that no rape occurred," Simon said. "Not by Blair, or anyone else."
"So Laura admitted to lying?" Blair asked.
"No, she didn't admit to anything. In fact, I listened to the recording, and she told a pretty good story about what happened."
"Oh God!" Blair said, pushing shaky hands through his hair.
"Then why does the Social Worker think she's lying?" Jim asked, keeping a wary eye on his friend, whose heartrate had accelerated dramatically.
"Well, Mrs. Breslin explained that rape victims are normally unwilling to discuss the incident, and are understandably quite emotional when they do. Laura didn't seem to have a problem with telling what had happened. In fact Megan confirmed that the girl shed a few tears, but otherwise was fairly calm about it." Simon sipped his coffee. "And Laura was willing to use Blair's name during the interview."
"What's her using my name got to do with anything?" Blair asked.
"Most victims know their attackers Chief," Jim explained. "And, after the attack are reluctant to mention the name of the person who did the damage. It's psychological. If Laura was willing to use your name, then it's a safe bet she's lying about you ... doing anything to her."
"Laura also said the ... incident happened in her bedroom, but she had no aversion to going in, and has been sleeping there without so much as a bad dream," Simon added.
"So, how do we get her to admit to the lie?"
"The Social Worker will continue to talk to Laura," Simon replied. "Hopefully she'll be able to get the girl to confess."
**********
Laura's boyfriend picked Laura up in his mother's car at school, after Mrs. Crawford had dropped her off.
"Brian, I can't do this anymore!" Laura sobbed from the passenger seat of the Toyota. "It's gone too far!"
"You were suppose to just tell them you had sex with this tutor, and he got you pregnant. You weren't suppose to tell them you were raped!" Brian chastised.
"I'm sorry. I panicked when daddy started screaming at me, and when he started talking about rape I ... I don't know, I just ... didn't think!"
"Well, we can't stop it now," Brian sighed. "If your dad finds out the truth now, I'll go to prison, and never see our baby."
"But daddy nearly killed Mr. Sandburg! It wasn't suppose to be like this!" Laura cried angrily.
"Well, it doesn't matter now Laura. We're going to leave Cascade ... today."
"What?! Brian ..."
"You want me to get arrested, or maybe killed by your Dad?!"
"No ... of course not! But what will we do?! How will we raise the baby?"
Brian reached over, taking Laura's small hand in his, "We'll go to Portland. I've got relatives there. I'll get a job." He gave the hand a slight squeeze, "We'll be fine babe ... I promise."
After a minute Laura finally sighed, and said, "Alright, but we *have* to make one stop first."
**********
"Laura?!" Blair said with surprise when he opened the door. He had thought it would be Jim with the groceries. "You can't be here."
"I have to talk to you Mr. Sandburg!" Laura pleaded.
"No Laura. Go Home ... Now!" Oh God! What a time for Jim to go to the store!
Laura slipped by Blair and into the loft before he could stop her. "Please ... I have to tell you the truth!" she cried.
Blair stood in the open door way, facing the girl.
"Please?"
"No ... Laura, please leave," Blair demanded.
"The father is Brian ... my boyfriend," Laura admitted.
Jim heard Blair's demand that Laura should leave as he stepped off the elevator. What the hell is she doing here?! Jim thought angrily. Quickly he closed the distance to the still open loft door. "What's going on Chief?" He asked as he stopped behind the young man.
Blair started slightly, wincing as he turned towards Jim. "Oh Jim! Thank God you're back! I heard a knock at the door, and I thought it was you. She pushed her way in, and now she won't leave."
Jim moved past Blair into the kitchen. "Leave ... now Miss Crawford," Jim growled, as he set the bags on the counter. He looked directly at the young girl with eyes that were dark, and angry. Jim took several steps toward the girl, intending to escort her out the door.
"NOT UNTIL *SOMEBODY* LISTENS!!" Laura howled, stomping her foot.
**********
"Hello?" Tonya Crawford answered the phone.
"Let me talk to Reese," the voice on the other end stated.
Tonya winced at the voice. She knew Wesley Allen, and Jerry Cook had helped her husband beat Blair Sandburg, even though Reese hadn't told her. At the time, when she had heard them talking about it, it had seemed *right* somehow. After all, her daughter had been raped in her own home ... her own room. But, now guilt flared, as she remembered the horrible thoughts she'd had. Two wrongs don't make a right. "Reese!" Mrs. Crawford called.
Coming into the living room, Mr. Crawford smiled, as his wife held the phone out to him, "Who is it darling?"
"Wes Allen."
"What's up Wes," Reese said into the phone.
"Followed Laura like ya asked. Her boyfriend picked her up. They're at the teacher's place now," Wes said into the cell phone.
"Shit!" Reese growled, trying to keep his voice down. "Stay there, I'm on my way."
**********
The desperation behind the words was real enough to make Jim stop. "Are you willing to tell the truth about what happened?"
Laura nodded, "Yes! That's why I came here!"
"Alright then, we go do it by the book ... down at the station."
"Um ... okay," Laura agreed.
"Let's go then," Jim said.
Down in the parking lot, Laura said, "Brian's waiting for me." She pointed at a blue Toyota parked on the corner of the building.
Jim tossed Blair the truck keys, "Wait in the truck Chief, we'll be right back." He turned back to Laura, "Introduce me to your boyfriend."
Blair walked over to the truck, and was sliding the key into the door lock when a green sedan screeched to a halt, blocking Jim's truck in. Reese Crawford stepped out of the car, followed by Wes and Jerry.
"JIM!" Blair yelled, as Jim turned at the sound of skidding tires.
Jim and Laura were almost to Brian's car.
"Daddy?!" Laura said.
"Not again!" Jim snarled under his breath. He handed his cell phone to the girl, "Call 911!" Then he launched himself toward his partner.
**********
Wes and Jerry pinned Blair against the car, as Crawford pulled back to punch Blair in the midsection.
Jim hit the group full force, knocking them all the ground.
Dazed, Blair managed to get to his feet, as Jim scrambled to ready himself for the fight.
"BLAIR ... RUN!" Jim shouted, knowing the young man was in no shape to try to fight.
"Jim ...," Blair mumbled, grimacing, and holding his stomach against the pain the fall had caused.
"Damn It Sandburg, Run!"
Jerry Cook grabbed Blair by the arm, which effectively cleared his head. Panicked, Blair pulled himself around, and bit down hard into the man's arm just above the elbow.
Yelping in pain, and anger, Jerry pushed Blair away. He stepped back, and kicked the larger man in the groin. Then, realizing he was free, Blair ran.
Jim had seen the exchange out of the corner of his eye, as he fought off both Crawford, and Wes. His senses tracked the young man's general direction, as Blair ran blindly.
"DADDY! STOP!" Laura screamed, watching the three men struggle. She and Brian had rushed forward after Laura's frantic call to 911.
At the same moment, half a dozen squad cars, and one maroon sedan, pulled into the parking lot.
"Whoa! That was quick!" Brian marveled.
**********
"Mrs. Crawford called after she realized what her husband was up to," Simon answered Jim's unspoken question.
Reese Crawford, Wesley Allen, and Jerry Cook were handcuffed, and placed in separate squad cars.
"Are you alright Jim," Simon asked, as Jim wiped blood off his lip.
"Yes sir," Jim replied, catching his breath. "Wasn't much of a fight." He looked around quickly.
"Where's Sandburg?"
"I have to go find him."
"What?!"
"I told him to run ... and for a change he did what he was told. He couldn't have made it far, he was already hurting."
"I'll have a few of the men give you a hand," Simon said.
"No Captain," Jim said, shaking his head. "I don't think that'd be a good idea. He was pretty panicky when he took off."
Simon hesitated, then handed the detective a radio, "I'll wait for you to come back. Let me know when you've got him."
Jim took the radio, "I will sir."
**********
Jim didn't have any problem locating Blair's wild heartbeat, and followed it to an alley less than a block away.
"Blair ... it's me," Jim announced, as he neared Blair's hiding place behind a dumpster. "It's Jim." He heard Blair's breath catch. "It's over buddy, I came to take ya home."
"Jim?" Blair whispered.
Jim heard it plainly. "Yeah Chief, I'm right here," he said quietly as he stepped around to see Blair huddled behind the dumpster. "You okay?"
"I'm sorry I ran Jim," Blair said shakily.
"There's nothing to be sorry for," Jim said, offering a hand to his partner. "C'mon out of there now."
"I shouldn't have ran. I should've stayed to help you."
"Blair, I *told* you to run. I wanted you to hide."
"My stomach hurts."
"C'mon out Chief."
Blair reached out, placing his cold hand into Jim's warm one. Jim gently pulled his Guide out, and into a firm embrace.
**********
The next day, Simon visited Jim and Blair at the loft with the news that all charges against Blair had been dropped. Laura had explained how she and Brian concocted the plan after discovering Laura was pregnant.
It was a simple plan really. Laura was to tell her parents that she and Mr. Sandburg had consensual sex, not realizing that it would be considered statutory rape because she was under eighteen years old. They thought that Mr. Crawford would fire Blair from the tutoring job, and that would be it. Brian and Laura were planning to marry as soon as Laura turned sixteen, figuring all the furor would have settled down in that time. They were going to go to Las Vegas, and lie about Laura's age, say that she's eighteen. But, when Mr. Crawford assumed that Laura had been raped, and Laura panicked, and didn't correct the statement, things quickly got out of hand.
"It's over now right?" Blair asked, after Simon's explanation. "No charges. No jail. No ..."
"Nothing Chief," Jim smiled. "The charges have been dropped. You've been cleared. It *is* over."
Blair sighed, leaning back into the sofa cushions next to Jim. "Thank God!"
The phone rang, and Jim reached for the receiver. "Ellison." He listened for a few moments. "Yes, Mr. Sandburg is right here. Hang on." Jim handed the phone to Blair, "It's the university."
Blair's mouth went dry, as his wide eyes darted from the receiver to Jim's face, and back again.
Jim gently pressed the phone into the young man's hand, and with a grin said, "Say 'hello' Blair.'
Blair put the receiver to his ear, "Um ... hello? This is Blair Sandburg."
"Mr. Sandburg, this is Mary Stewart at Rainier University," the happy sounding voice on the other end said. "We've just heard from the your attorney that all charges of assault, and rape against you have been dropped. I wanted to be the first to let congratulate you, and welcome you back to the university."
"You mean ... I'm not suspended anymore? I can come back?" Blair sputtered.
"Yes, but we in the Administration agree that you should take a week off to finish recuperating. We'd heard about the ordeal you've been through ..."
"Oh ... I, um, don't think I can take a week," Blair interrupted.
"With pay Mr. Sandburg," Mary said, a smile in her voice.
"With ... pay?" Blair repeated. "Well, ah, sure. I could use a few more days."
Jim and Simon sat back, enjoying the first *real* Sandburg smile they'd seen in quite a while.
<>~~<>~~<>
end