Sitting outside Casa Pineapple, a hotel in Le Carré, Louisiana. The sun was setting and you were getting worried. York that idiot had decided to actually use that damn skateboard. Now you were left sitting next to a statue of a man who looked very much like the hotel's concierge.
York had once again dragged you onto an investigation. One down in Houston Texas to which you both had flown down for. Then York got the idea to rent a hybrid car and visit New Orleans. You had vacation planned for the whole month. He shoveled the Houston case in a week.
During the trip you both decided to stop at a diner to eat. Only to come out and find the car gone. Suitcases thrown about and a skateboard left behind. York wanted to use the skateboard and you called a Taxi. You thought he would give up and take a taxi but no.
You had checked in, got the luggage set away and now you waited. Worried and panicking that York wouldn’t turn up till after dark. Tapping your foot puts your head in your hands. Letting out a sigh slumping back against the bench.
Silently you promised that if he's not here in the next hour you're calling the cops. What a fun local news report that would be. Local cops called to find a missing FBI agent.
Mentally scolding yourself for not forcing York in the taxi. Almost an hour had passed and the street lights came on. Getting up you walked over to a payphone located next to the bench. Picking up the phone you started dialing.
Hands touched your sides as someone grabbed you. Startled at the sudden touch you screamed, dropping the phone. The hands gripped you harder keeping you in place.
“You’re going to make everyone think I’m assaulting you.” A familiar calm voice spoke. Spinning around quickly you came face to face with York. He dropped his hands to his sides. Giving you a lopsided smile like he didn’t just sneak up on you right as the sun went down.
“God! York!” Slapping a hand against his chest. York laughed, stepping back. The skateboard was propped up against the bench. Crossing your arms you stepped back bumping the payphone. He was a mess, his hair was sticking in every direction. Sweat clung to his forehead, even dripping down his neck. Even with the sun gone the air was still burning hot.
Looking down over him he wore a white button up shirt. Said shirt was now clinging to him as sweat soaked through. His undershirt showed through his button up. His black slacks and loafers were covered in dirt.
“I was about to call the cops you asshole.” York’s eyebrows pinched together. He tilted his head a little confused by your words.
“Why would you do that? I told you I was going to meet you here.” He appeared completely confident in his words. Rolling your eyes you stepped forward catching the smell of York. Grimacing, you reach out grabbing his wrist.
“I will save the lecture for when we are alone. Let's go, you smell horrible.” Pulling him along not wanting to spend any more time out in the heat. York pulled you a little as he grabbed the skateboard. He didn’t resist as you dragged him into Casa Pineapple.
The hotel was a beautiful white creole type of structure with three stories. Inside the lobby was large with lots of paintings decorating it. Couches and armchairs littered the open floor making a nice lounge space. Four large pillars stretched up past the ceiling, each pillar decorated in a diamond pattern painted in gold. Walking through the lobby revealed an open loft. You could see straight up to the very top floor from the grand staircase.
A red carpet leads from the front door to the wood grand staircase. The green tiled floor makes the carpet pop. Really it was a very nice hotel that you wouldn’t mind spending your vacation in. Walking through the lobby a few people were lounging around. David the bellboy was nowhere around.
York walked side by side with you not bothering to take his hand away. His head on a swivel as he tried to take in the hotel lobby. However you were dragging him along at a quick pace. He smelt and looked gross there was no way you’d let him loose right now.
Dragging him up the staircase you both come face to face with a giant mirror. The sight of you dragged the FBI profile around made you chuckle. Catching sight of York turning his head to look at you. You dragged him up the next set of stairs. Across an open air walkway to your shared hotel room. Room 203.
Unlocking the door you stepped into the large hotel room. The room is made up of three parts going from right to left from the entryway: the living room, bedroom and bathroom. The entryway also doubles as the dressing area. Right next to the door is a slim small table, a wardrobe and a dresser.
The living room was surrounded by three walls. One wall being nothing but glass windows to the balcony. A small lounge area with a TV and a small fridge. In the corner was a dining table with two chairs. Plants and paintings decorated the space making it feel comfortable.
Then the bedroom tucked into a corner next to the living room. Windows also lined one wall but this time a door to the balcony was among them. There was a large king size bed with nightstands. Even another couch by the windows for you to lounge on.
Finally the bathroom behind the door to the bathroom layed a lovely set up. A large glass shower and a clawfoot bathtub. With a large mirror above the sink and the toilet hidden in its own alcove.
“Look at this thing.” You let go of York's hand to step towards the one sore spot in the beautiful room. A large statue sat between the bathroom and bedroom. It was a person you think. A cow's skull with horns rested in place of the head. Six skeleton arms jutted out from the torso wrapped in fabric. One of the lower arms held a rope that a child sized rope doll hung from. Fabric draped around the statue making it feel like it might come to life.
“That’s amazing!” York exclaimed. Setting the skateboard by the front door. He walked over to join you in front of the statue. Looking it over with a small frown you didn’t know if you could sleep with that in the room. Oh there was the second problem.
“And there is only one bed.” Taking a few steps into the bedroom. The bed looked very comfortable but there was only one. York and you had shared a bedroom but never a bed. Turning to look at York who was examining the statue. He leaned in, taking a closer look at the statue caught up in the details.
“York.” No response.
“York really, it's a creepy statue.” Still nothing.
“Francis York Morgan.” That got his attention and he turned to look at you. A frown on his lips at the use of his whole name. Using both arms you gestured to the bed trying to get his attention on it. He stepped away from the statue coming to your side. His eyes landed on the single bed but he didn’t appear fazed.
“I don’t see an issue.” York looked over the bedroom area. “It’s more than big enough for the both of us.” He glanced at you. “Or do you not like me?” A smile creeped onto his face. He leaned towards you a little, teasing you. Steeping close you bump his shoulder.
“Go shower Agent Stinky.” York raised an eyebrow before letting out a chuckle. He moved towards the bathroom disappearing inside. Taking the opportunity you leave the room. Heading upstairs to the small restaurant on the third flood. Finding it busy for the dinner rush.
David the chef was running around keeping the buffet style restaurant going. Helping yourself you found the plates carefully to make yourself a full meal. York on the other hand was harder, his love of junk food always causing problems.
Finding a small section full of sandwiches felt like a miracle. Loading York's plate with Turkey sandwiches and chips. Balancing both plates was a task in itself. Somehow you made it back to the room, setting the plates on the dining table.
Stepping just once more to visit the vending machine on the other end of the hall. Stepping back into the room with two cans of cold soda. It felt warmer than before shutting the door behind you. York's voice startled you as he spoke standing in front of the wardrobe.
“Welcome back.” He was only wearing blue striped pajama pants. Ever since York came back from his training with the Bureau he had put on some muscles. It showed as he reached into the wardrobe. The muscle of his arm and shoulder flexed as he looked for something.
“Got us dinner. Turkey sandwiches for you.” The cans in your hand started to get wet from condensation. Your fingers were cold but an idea for pay back popped into your head. York leaned into the wardrobe as he kept looking.
Stopping behind him you pressed one of the sodas fully to his back. His muscles flexed instantly and he stepped forward quickly. Turning to face you he snatched the soda from you faster than you could react. Scurrying back out of his reach giggling manically as you did. A wide smile plastered on your face for getting a reaction out of him.
“I was going to say thank you but I don’t think you deserve it.” York slipped the soda into the pocket of his pants as he turned back around.
“Payback for making me worry.” You shot back going to the dining table. “Your shirt is in the dresser. I ran out of hangers.” Sitting down you opened your soda. York moved to the dresser pulling out a white tank top. Slipping it on before grabbing his long sleeve pajama shirt. Slipping it over his shoulders.
He joined you at the table taking the soda can out of his pocket. Putting it on the table as he started buttoning up his shirt. A blue pajama shirt with white strips. Looking at his chest you watched the muscles flex. York wasn’t ripped but toned. Tone enough for you to admire it for a few moments too long.
“Something wrong?” York asked as he finished butting up his shirt. Fastening it to the top button makes him look a little silly. The outfit looked almost too small on him. As he reached for the sandwich you brought the fabric of his shirt stretched against his biceps.
“How do you only eat junk food but you're still toned?” Digging into your own meal. The food was really good for a buffet in some tiny town. York chewed his food deep in though before reaching up with his right hand. Pressing two fingers to his temple.
“How do we explain the importance of junk food, Zach?” Letting out a groan you sit up. “Don’t bring him into this!” You protested. “Two against one isn’t fair!” York’s lips twitched at the beginning of a smile forming but he didn’t let it grow. He dropped his hand from his temple.
“Junk food shouldn’t be viewed in a negative light. The variety and versatility of junk food is amazing.” York starts to go on a rant.
“Versatility…” You mumbled rolling your eyes.
“Why you could get everything you need from junk food. Vitamins, sugars and protein. In fact did you know that in Japan during the 1970’s people started skipping breakfast or eating later at night due to modernization. Western diets and instant foods were becoming rapidly popular. A company launched something called ‘Calorie mate’.” He finally paused for air, giving you a look. The look that meant he was waiting for you to ask questions.
“Calorie mate?” Asking simply to entertain him.
“It was launched in 1983 and revolutionized the industry by displaying both the caloric and nutritional content. It contains protein, fat, sugars, eleven vitamins and six minerals. It’s available in a block, jelly and liquid but the jelly has less vitamins and minerals. It’s a beautiful combination of nutrition and science to make a quick easy to eat product. Made for people who are busy and on the go. I would love to get my hands on one but they are hard to find in America without going to a specialty shop.” Finishing your food as York was mid rant. Downing your soda before you spoke up.
“We live in Boston. I'm sure we can find a shop that sells them. Finish your food and take the plates back to the restaurant upstairs.” Standing up you walked past him. Reaching out you ruffle his hair feeling the dampness of it.
“I’m gonna shower.” Calling over your shoulder as you walk into the bathroom. Both York and your shower bags were already in the room from your previous unpacking. His stuff sat open on the counter with a few products of his in the shower or scattered around the sink.
Picking up your you brought it to the shower. Stripping down you heard the door to the room open and close. Stripping down you get into the shower that felt amazing after this southern heat. In Bostan you are used to the cold, not this blistering heat. Even in the taxi you had been sweating.
Right after getting the conditioner out of your hair the water suddenly shut off. Standing there confused, you fiddled with the controls. Nothing happened, it didn't even try to spit out any water. Leaving you to an abrupt end to your nice shower.
Getting out you dry off wrapping a towel around yourself. Brushing your teeth before bed you noticed you forgot to bring in some clothes. Cracking open the door you glance around not spotting York.
He probably got distracted by the intricate details of the hotel. Going to the dresser you found pulled out something to sleep in. Dropping the towel you started to get dressed.
“Done already?” York's voice came from the bedroom.
“Showers busted.” Slipping on your clothes you turn to find York standing in the open entry way of the bedroom. Covering your chest in a false attempt to hide your modesty. “Pervert watching me change. Both of you.” Poking at Zach as well.
“Says the person who did the same thing earlier.” He leaned on the entryway of the bedroom. Grabbing the towel you returned it to the bathroom. “The shower is broken?” He called after you.
“Yes. It just stopped, now no water will come out.” Stepping out of the bathroom and heading to bed. Walking past York you drop onto the large bed. York may have skateboarded fifteen miles but you felt the exhaustion. Crawling across the bed to the side furthest from the opening to the bedroom.
“We will have to talk to the concierge in the morning.” York moved to the door leading to the balcony. He opened it up letting a breeze wafted in. The sheer white curtains fluttered around as York pulls out his cigarettes and lighter from his pants pocket.
“So you're fine with sharing a bed?” He looked at you as he took a cigarette out of the pack. Bringing the cigarette to his lips wrapping his lips around it. Dropping the pack back into the drawer.
“It is my motto to never sleep anywhere uncomfortable since we left foster care.” Pulling the covers back you crawl in the bed was soft. The covers were smooth against your skin making you snuggle in deeper. The pillows were very soft, almost too soft.
“That’s an interesting motto.” York flicked the lighter and a small flame burst to life. Rolling onto your side you watch him light his cigarette. Flipping the lighter close he shoves it into his pocket. He takes a drag of it as he walks to the open balcony door. Stepping outside before he lets a cloud of smoke.
There were two pillows on your side and two on Yorks. They were horribly soft to the point your head had already sunk through the two pillows. It left you with little neck support so you fold the pillows trying to get comfortable.
Glancing out the open door you see a York’s back to you with a black sky. He blows out a cloud of smoke leaning on the railing. His head moves as he looks over the street below. Watching York for a solid minute before your eyes start to feel dry.
Pulling the blanket up to your chin you close your eyes. Sleep claimed you easily travel and the stress of the carjacking catching up to you. Somewhere in your half asleep state you registered the bed dipping. Snuggling into the pillows was the last coherent thought you had.
~
Sirens. Flashing lights.
The sudden assault had you jerking out of sleep. Blue and Red flashing lights filled the hotel room as a police siren wailed. Your sleep riddled brain snapped to alert but both faded just as fast. Leaving you rattled from the abrupt wake up.
There was a dim glow filling the room from the streetlights below. Unfortunately the sheer curtains didn’t do much to block out the light. Soft breathing alerted you to someone on your right. Turning your head to look caused a sharp pain to shoot up your neck.
Squeezing your eyes shut you straighten your neck. Grabbing your pillows you found that they were squished flat. Doing your best to fluff them up but the pillows were not cooperating. Carefully sitting up you push the pillows aside. Scooting back you press your back to the headboard. Slowly rolling your neck trying to work out the kinks.
Catching sight of York as you try to fix your neck. He was on his side facing you as he slept. His arm tucked under his head with his mouth parted slightly as he breathed. He didn’t even stir from you moving or from the sirens.
Turning your head fully to the side caused a sudden pain to shoot through your neck and shoulder. Groaning at the pain you squeeze your eyes shut again. Using your hand to gently press around your neck. Finding almost your whole neck was sore.
Hopefully the police will find the rental car tomorrow. Another night in this bed will have your neck unable to move. The bed shifted and something warm touched your side. Opening your eyes you do your best to look at York.
With what light the street lamps provided you could make out York’s hand on your side. Sliding your eyes up his arm you landed on his face. Mismatched eyes open looking up at you. He pulled his hand away sitting up causing the sheets to fall away from him.
“What's wrong? I heard you make a noise.” His voice was husky from just waking up. He was fully alert though his movements were sharp with no evidence of having just woken up. He sat up finding the small lamp on the nightstand.
“You heard that but not the sirens?” Flinching when York flips on the light. It was somehow impossibly bright for a bedside lamp. Rubbing your face you let out a sigh. You didn’t even know what time it was but you both were awake now. “Sirens?” York asked.
“Police car drove by with the lights and sirens on and woke me up. Now my neck is trying to kill me.” Rolling your neck again this time with the same result. Wincing at the pain in your neck. Slumping back against the headboard you gave up on fixing it.
“And no hot showers until we report it tomorrow.” York added.
“It's the pillows fault. I’m never buying a feathered pillow, that's for sure. I hope they catch the guy who stole the car.” Laying back down you grabbed the pillows folding them in half. Laying on your back with a frown as the pillows instantly flattened.
York turns off the light laying back down on his side facing you. There was a bit of silence between you two as you lay in bed. Staring at the ceiling as you try to brainstorm a solution. Perhaps one of the couches in the room had pillows you could use.
York shifted and the bed dipped as he scooted closer to you. If you could turn your head you would. Instead you kept facing straight ahead. “What are you doing?” Asking as you kept your eyes on the ceiling.
“I have a solution.” York touched your neck making you tense up. He slipped his hand under your neck. Lifting your head as much as you could, you're curious to see what he was planning. His arm slipped under your neck as he closed the distance between you two.
Feeling the heat from his body next to yours. The covers trapping all the heat making you conscious of how close he was. He stopped moving so you dropped your head. York's arm fits perfectly in the crook of your neck. There was a slight relief in the muscles of your neck thanks to the support.
“This should help for the rest of the night. We can find a solution in the morning.” York spoke softly like he might fall back asleep at any moment.
It was a weird feeling because cuddling wasn’t really something you guys did. Sometimes you’d both stretch across the couch when watching movies. Under the blanket it was starting to get pretty warm. If you moved your arm even slightly you’d bump York’s chest.
Taking a shot you move your head trying to see York. This time you did it with only a minimal bit of pain. He was close enough for you to faintly feel his breath on your skin. His eyes were already closed; he appeared to be asleep again in a matter of moments. How this man functioned was a mystery to you even after knowing him for years.
He was right though his arm was helping your neck by supporting it. Add pillow to the list of things York is capable of doing. Closing your eyes you tried to go to sleep. There was a sore ache in your neck that you tried to ignore.
Except despite being tired your body refused to sleep.
Sounds from the street below slowly drifted in. People talking too loud, an occasional car passing and the sounds of people moving around in the hotel. York's steady breathing was in your ear the whole time. You both admired and hated how fast he fell asleep.
Using York’s bicep as a pillow lets you feel every movement. He didn’t move a lot in his sleep but when he did his muscles flexed. His body was close enough that you could feel the heat coming off of him.
Then there was his breathing. Slow, soft and steady. His chest rising and falling with each breath. Listening to him breath almost like a lullaby as you try to sleep.
~
Loud talking stirred you from sleep. Someone was walking by the room talking way too loudly. Cracking your eyes open to bright light. Not even aware you had fallen asleep in the night. It felt like you hadn't slept at all. Like all you did was blink then suddenly it's morning.
It was so warm and toasty in bed so you snuggled under the covers more. Wanting to catch up on the sleep you missed. Blinking a few times as you come to terms with the fact you're awake now. Everything was so warm and there was a weight across your body.
Warm breath fanned over your face. Turning your head there was a slight pain but not as bad. York had closed the gap between you two. His chest was pressing against your arm as you lay on your back.
His free arm thrown over your belly holding you in a loose grip. His hand pressed against your hip. Taking a deep breath you try to slide out from under York's arm. His fingers twitch against your hip gripping at it briefly. Freezing you debate if you should wake York up or not. There was no clock in your line of sight so you didn’t know what time it truly was.
Carefully you grab York’s hand, peeling it off of your hip. Peeling his arm slowly off of your body. When you get halfway York takes a deep breath. His chest presses into your arm as he breaths. He scrunches his face up before he peeks open one eye. Letting go of his arm it drops onto your belly again.
“Morning…” His morning voice was gruff and low. He closed his eyes, taking another deep breath. He didn’t try to move, taking his time as he woke up. It was rare to see York so lazy and lacking energy.
“Morning.” Sitting up in bed, the ache in your neck is still president. If York went to the police you would go to a local shop to find medicine. Rubbing at your eyes you felt the bed shift as York got up.
York got out of bed without a word heading to the bathroom. Slipping out of bed you changed out of your pajamas into the most breathable clothes you had. No doubt today would be just as hot as yesterday. By the time you finished dressing York came out of the bathroom.
“Let’s get breakfast. I am interested in the hotel restaurant after tasting the food you brought yesterday.” There was the normal York you were used to. Turning to look at York as he stood in the bathroom doorway.
“Okay I’ll meet you up there. Get us a nice table.” Walking over to the bathroom you looked at York. He had stubble on his face just from one night. He nodded, giving you a quick smile before walking past you. Heading into the bathroom you get ready for the day ahead. With York around any normal day can take a crazy turn.
Once you are ready you head out of the hotel room. The echo of voices rose up from the floor below. Walking to the railing you peek down over the edge. Even this early in the morning the lobby was bustling. Voices of people mixed together floating up to you in a mass of sound. Pulling away you head upstairs to meet with York.
Walking into the restaurant you couldn’t spot York right away. Doors to the balcony along the back of the restaurant were open letting the natural light in. Scanning over the crowd you didn’t spot that familiar mop of white hair.
There was a mass of voices filling the room with the clinks of utensils. A few small kids darted in and out of the crowded room. Standing up on your tiptoes there was no sign of the FBI agent.
Trudging through the bustling room you searched for York. Hoping he didn’t get side tracked on the way to the restaurant. Circling the outer edges you walked by the open doors feeling the heat of the day. Walking past the doors you try to keep your eyes peeled for him.
A voice called your name over the crowd. Looking around the whole place trying to find the source. Again York calls your name this time you were listening for it. Spinning around you find York sitting on the balcony. A few tables were set up but everyone chose to stay inside.
He was still in his blue pajamas but looked content with his choices. Padding over to the table you slide into the seat across from him. It was just as hot as yesterday with the sun beating down on the streets of Le Carré. York looked content as he glanced over the streets below.
“Here.” York held his hand out to you. Raising your eyebrow at his gesture you didn’t know what he wanted. “Your tea cup.” He clarified.
A quick survey of the table revealed you had a tea cup on your side. Picking up the delicate ceramic cup you hand it to York. Taking note of the large pineapple that sat between you two. As York fills up the teacup you pick up the pineapple by its leaves moving it to the center of the table.
“No coffee?” York glanced up before setting the teapot down. He shook his head as he handed the cup back to you. Taking it from him, the warmth of the tea warming your already hot hands.
“None but tea is fine. After all, we are on vacation and we should try something new.” Taking a sip of the tea was bitter, making you sputter. Not the first thing you were expecting in the morning. York chuckled, taking a sip of his tea before setting it down.
“Not everyone is a weirdo who drinks black coffee.” Glaring at York as he shrugged. York leaned back in his seat, a smirk on his lips.
“Coffee is an important start to the day. It’s important to have a routine. Perhaps you should give it a try some time.” He gave you a pointed look with the smirk staying plastered on his face. Giving him a hard stare as you picked up the teacup again. Taking a sip of tea that was just as bitter as the first time.
“That’s not fair-”
“Order up for the lovely couple.” Interrupted suddenly by a man wearing a chef's jacket who looks very much like David the concierge.
“Oh we aren’t-”
“Thank you chef, it looks wonderful.” York spoke over you. The chef held a food tray on his arm moving to your side. He set down an overflowing plate of food along with a bowl of grits.
As he moved to York's side you inspected the plate. A whole lobster, dirty rice, okra and a dinner roll. All this on top of the grits seems like way too much food for breakfast.
“Is it possible for us to get something to sweeten the tea?” York meets your eyes giving you a wink as if to say he’s got you covered.
“Of course coming right up.” With that the chef disappeared for a moment only to return with a bottle of honey. When he set it down on the table he took off again disappearing just as quickly as he appeared.
“I hope you don’t mind. I took the liberty of ordering for you.” Reaching for the honey you dump a copious amount of it into your tea. “I hadn’t noticed.” Shooting back at him as you take another sip of tea. This time it tasted more of honey than anything but that was fine.
“Someone is grumpy in the morning. I’ll be sure to consult you for all future ordering. I shouldn’t have assumed that twenty years we have known each other was long enough to know what you like.” York teased as he looked out over the street. Opening your mouth to argue with him you snap it shut. There was a large fresh, hot meal in front of you and a beautiful day ahead.
Ignoring York as he people watched you grab the rolled up silverware. Unraveling the napkin you find a shell cracker along with the normal utensils. Digging into the hot and fresh food in front of you. It was a wonderful breakfast but you wouldn’t admit out loud to York about it.
“Should we check with the police today about the rental car?” Asking York as you try to crack open one of the lobster's claws. York, who has been staring out over the streets this whole time, finally looked over at you.
“I’ve given them the hotel we are staying at. Any news will be given to the front desk.” He took a sip of tea not even bothering to sweeten it. The claw cracked letting you get at the meat inside of it. Munching away you noticed York hadn’t touched his food at all.
“York.” Taking on a stern tone swallowing down the lobster meat. He raised an eyebrow very much knowing what your tone meant. Looking down at his food you look back up at him. His eyes followed yours looking down at his food.
“It’s a wonderful meal. Truly a work of art from the chef themself.” Narrowing your eyes at him you wipe off your hands before crossing them. York reached up pressing his fingers against his temple. “Really this whole vacation has been amazing wouldn’t you agree Zach. Not to mention the case before this was riveting. Who would've thought that stuffed hu-”
“Ahhh! I’m eating!” Yelling over York’s voice trying to block out the memories of the last case. An entire collection of stuffed humans. Just thinking about it makes your skin crawl. Shaking your head you reach out tapping York’s plate. “Eat or else I’ll bug you all day about it.” Stealing a piece of okra off his plate.
York watched as you popped the piece of okra into your mouth. His lips twitched as he fought back another smile. He kept his fingers pressed to his head. No doubt Zach had something to say to him.
He dropped his hand reaching out for his utensils. Watching him takes a bite of the dirty rice. No doubt Zach was on your side giving York a scolding. A smile broke out across your face as you watched him eat.
A bird landed on the railing of the balcony next to your table. Both of you look over at the American Robin that settles on the railing. The bird hopped around on the railing stopping near you. Seeing it closer you saw a worm wiggling around in its mouth.
York took a sip of tea before looking down into the cup. Pressing his fingers against his temple before he spoke.
“Zach, it looks like she wants us to join her for breakfast. Perhaps this town’s finally starting to warm up to us.” York looked up at you with a smirk on his lips. Shrugging you finish your tea holding the cup out to York.
York sets his teacup down grabbing the teapot refilling your cup for you. Just as he finished filling the cup the bird suddenly tossed the worm onto the table. Recoiling a little as the worm landed next to you. Setting the teacup down you looked between the bird and worm unsure what to do.
“Look at that! She’s welcoming us with open arms.” Glancing to York who had his fingers pressed to his forehead. “She’s even willing to share that tasty morsel with us. What an honor!” Caught between a grimace and smile you weren’t sure how to react. York for his part still had a smile on his face.
“Well that's a good omen if I’ve ever seen one.” Looking at the bird as it spoke. Then to York returning his smile. The robin turned flying off into the sky as you both sat there. Picking up the honey you almost drop it as someone suddenly spoke.
“Hurry up and chow down, mister. Unless you like your breakfast stale.” The chef from earlier spoke. York and you both turn to look at him as he walks onto the balcony. Inside the restaurant was much more sparse than earlier. So caught up in eating breakfast with York you hadn’t noticed. York spoke up as the chef stopped at the table.
“What an amazing place. I’ve been on top of the moon since the moment I got here.” Giving York a pointed look as if to remind him of the pillow incident last night. He met your eyes but didn’t comment on it.
“And the name of this wonderful town, Le Carré … sounds like French to me. But what does it mean?” He takes a sip of tea before setting it down. Bringing his eyes back to the chef as he spoke. Reaching over you steal the other piece of okra from York's plate.
“I’m the chef, David.” David grabbed the teapot refilling York's cup. “If you wanna know about the town, you’d better ask the concierge.” He turned to you but you shook your head. Dumping another large amount of honey into your teacup. David set down the teapot taking a step back.
“Only amateur chefs flap their gums about stuff that ain’t food-related.” David crosses his arms looking between you both. With a nod he turned around heading back inside. Taking a sip of tea you look out over the railing. Looking out over the small town with its palm trees and cramped together buildings.
“Did you hear that, Zach? He’s a true professional.” Turning back around to find York with his fingers pressed to his temple. David paused in the doorway of the balcony turning around to look at York.
“You say somethin’, mister?” York shook his head. “No, not to you. I was just talking to Zach.” David looks at you but you shake your head. Taking a moment to introduce yourself to him. “This is FBI agent Francis York Morgan.” Holding your hand out to York.
“Please don’t ask me about Zach. It’s a private matter.” York tacked on. Having already memorized his normal greeting to people. Finishing off your tea you lean back in your chair. David shrugged, shaking his head. “If you say so.”
“Still … Never thought the FBI would ever come out to a little old town like ours.” David's words made you pause. Turning your head slowly to look at York as he spoke. “I do work for the FBI, but I didn’t come here for an investigation. I just happened to stop by on my way to New Orleans.” David sighed, crossing his arms again.
“Never thought there’d be a murder out here, either.” Slumping in your seat with a groan at his words.”And it was a sixteen year old kid. I tell you, this country’s seen better days.” Propping your arms on the table you hold your head in your hands. Knowing that you’d be trapped in this town now. This man never gets tired of murder or anything.
“Folks say the killer used an axe… Helluvan old-fashioned choice, if you ask me.” Zoning back in as David spoke. Between working for the newspaper and hanging with York you were always looking for information. Picking your head up you drop your hands.
“Actually…” York started. Shaking your head you start mentally going over how many days of vacation you had left. “Chef David if you don’t mind. I’d like to ask you a few questions about the incident.”
“Hold up.” Raising your hand the pair look at you.
“I’m going back to the room. York, eat your food.” Standing up York doesn't try to stop you. Leaving the pair behind you walk through the restaurant. Snagging a muffin from the buffet before you make your way back to the hotel room.
Setting the muffin aside for later you head to the closet. Opening it up you dig through pulling out York’s black suit. Laying it out on the bed along with a red tie. Knowing that York will be doing all he can to get a look at the crime scene.
Even though you were dressed unlike York you still had to get ready. Digging your cross body bag out of the wardrobe. Moving to the bed you sit down, opening it up and dumping out the contents.
Your notebook, an extra one just in case, wallet, keys and pepper spray. After hearing about all of York’s cases you decided to get something to defend yourself. Picking up the notebook a pen was wedged between its pages. Opening the notebook you slide the pen out.
The door to the room suddenly opened. Setting the notebook and pen down you get up. Moving to the bedroom entryway. Peeking out, you spot York walking inside the room.
“That was not enough time to eat.” You scold York as he strolled in. “I ate.” He tried defending himself by shutting the door behind him. “Bullshit, your bad habits are gonna catch up with you one day.” York just flashed you a lopsided grin heading to the wardrobe.
“Suits on the bed.” Moving back to the bed you sat down next to your bag. Picking up your notebook you flip through until you come to a blank page. Writing Le Carré at the top of the page tracing the letters a few times to make sure they are bold.
“I believe that I have become predictable, Zach.” Not bothering to look up knowing York is talking to Zach. “Though I must say we are lucky to have such a great best friend.” Rolling your eyes you know York was trying to get on your good side. It’s not like you could hide how you felt from him. He was a damn good profiler so it was hard hiding things from him.
“What are Zach’s thoughts?” Looking up in time to see York begging to unbutton his shirt. His hands work at the buttons revealing his white tank top underneath.
“Zach is also interested in the case. I have a hunch that there is more to this case than we know.” He slips his pajama shirt off, tossing it onto the bed. Looking back down at your notebook. Writing down the date and what transpired to lead you both here. As you write you can hear York undressing next to the bed.
“As long as we are back in Boston before I need to start work.” Glancing up in time to see York in boxer briefs. His thighs and calves had the same lean muscles as his upper body. Even with his habit of smoking he might be able to outrun you.
“I’m sure we will have time for our vacation and get you back in time.” He grabbed his dress pants, slipping them with ease. Zipping his pants up he grabbed his belt looping it through the belt loops. He caught sight of you looking at him.
“Pervert.” He retorted by throwing your words from yesterday back at you. Sticking your tongue out at him you turn back to the notebook. Finishing up the short description of everything up until now. Once you finish you look up finding York almost fully dressed.
York flipped the collar of his dress shirt up. Grabbing his tie and looping it around the neck of his shirt. He paused, turning to you fully closing the space between you two. He stands in front of you as you sit on the edge of the bed. Wedging the pen between the pages you close it. Looking up at York tilting your head in a silent question.
“Would you help me with my tie? Please?” Confused at his sudden request, you narrowed your eyes. Never in your life had York asked you to help him with his tie. Setting the notebook aside, you stand up standing in front of York.
“What’s gotten into you today?” Gripping each end of his tie in your hands. Focused on making sure you tie it correctly.
“I haven’t the slightest clue what you mean.” Peeking up at his face he was looking right at you. Not watching your hands as you work on his tie. Yanking on his tie hard enough to make him step forward. His foot bumping yours as he does.
Finishing his tie you tighten it around his neck making sure it's comfortable. Taking the extra step to smooth down the collar of his dress shirt. Smiling up at him as you step back. Placing your hands on your hips.
“There we go you big baby.” York didn’t move for a moment just watching you. He then moves to the wardrobe, opening it up and pulling out his luggage. The one thing you didn’t want to touch was his equipment.
He unzipped his luggage pulling out his shoulder holster. He slipped it on, fiddling with it as he tightened it. The leather straps from a X over his back with the gun holster under his left arm. It wasn’t hard to admit that he looked good when he put on his equipment. Something you have had the privilege of watching multiple times. It was something you never got tired of watching.
He knelt down his hands going into the luggage out of your sight. Only hearing a series of clicking before he stood up holding a handgun and mag of ammo. He checks the magazine before sliding it into the gun. He checks over the gun before putting it into the holster.
Then he grabs one more thing out of his luggage. Clipping his handcuff holder onto the back of his belt. Finishes getting everything together including his wallet and badge.
“Look at you Mr. FBI.” Picking you York’s suit jacket you meet him halfway. Holding his jacket out to him. York took his jacket, slipping it on concealing his gun.
“Excellent, now we just need to go over the case so far.” York left the bedroom with you following after him. Moving into the living room he moves to the far wall. Finding your muffin you left earlier you plop down in an armchair getting comfortable.
“Saint Rouge.” York mumbled his back to you as he stared at the wall. His hand raised, pressing his two fingers to his temple, his single he was talking to Zach. “We’ve been chasing it all over America but…” Taking a bite of the muffin watching York and Zach at work.
“I feel like we’re finally on the verge of finding something now. Don’t you, Zach?” York turned to his briefcase that you had placed next to the wardrobe. “I think it’s about time we ordered a new briefcase.” He dropped his hand pausing for a moment.
“Yes, I know this one carries a lot of memories. But it’s seen too much.” Staying silent you always struggled on when to interject. Without hearing Zach himself you didn’t know when to speak up. So instead you kept busy peeling the wrapper from the muffin.
“This hotels from the shoot-out in Tucson … and the stains from Miami.” Heart sinking at the thought of York in the middle of a shoot out. His job was more dangerous than you could imagine. You sat behind a desk all day typing away on a computer. York chased psycho killers and occasionally dragged you along but you were never involved.
“Ah, Miami … Now that was a fascinating case. Billy, our perp, cut his own torso right in-”
“Ah! No, I don't need to hear that!” Grimacing at the thought of what York would suggest. Looking at the briefcase you pictured it sitting in a pool of blood. Wiping your hand on the armchair at the thought of you carrying the bag yesterday.
York looked over his shoulder at you with a flash of a smile. Then he picked up his briefcase digging through it he pulled out a few things. A handful of papers that you couldn’t make out. He sets the briefcase back where it was before going back to the blank wall.
“I was just saying that even with drugs it was a feat of mental fortitude to pull off such a thing.” Looking around trying to find a pillow to throw at him but there were none. There goes plan A for tonight to prevent your neck from hurting.
“I know, Zach, I know. Now isn’t the time for a trip down memory lane.” Slumping in your seat, this was a trip you wanted to stop. Finishing your muffin you ball up the wrapper throwing it at York. It nails him square in the back with the flimsy wrapper.
“Assaulting a federal agent is a felony you know. I could arrest you for that.” He didn’t look at you, instead busying himself with the papers in his hands. He started pinning stuff to the wall. First it was an evidence bag containing the wrapper for Saint Rouge.
“Oh no don’t arrest me.” Speaking in a flat monotone voice as you watch him. York chuckled before he started speaking to Zach again.
“An emergent drug that’s been on the raise in four southern states. Personally, I think it originated right here in Louisiana.” This sentence you started to connect the dots. “And Lise Clarkson’s murder-”
“York … Did you disguise our vacation as a way to investigate Saint Rogue?” Standing up you move around the couch standing next to York. He turned to you giving you a smile like nothing was wrong.
“Just a happy accident really. I truly do want to visit New Orleans. Rich with history and all kinds of wonders. I promise you this vacation will be one you can fully enjoy.” York turned to you, reaching out and patting your head like he was talking to a kid.