Amore Perros!

[Ryan Alexander]

11257
The Cafe
DC


“What DOES NCIS do, exactly?!” Ryan laughed. “Fiona, you have no idea how many times I get asked that. Though at least they made a show about it, so at least we have something to reference!” He laughed again. “We are typically responsible for investigating actual, suspected, or alleged offense, usually felony level crimes as well as a myriad of other crimes, like terrorism, defection, etc. for the Department of the Navy.” Ryan answered, though he didn’t want to bore her with anything. "It can be quiet interesting. I guess I have fun." He took a sip of his coffee  and smiled happily, enjoying the food and the company.

He listened as she relayed to him her growing up in Ireland. The special security officer in him wanted to ask how much of a nightmare that had been to get her clearance, but knowing where they were, it wasn’t the best place to be talking about such thing. When Fiona had gotten to the part about how her uncle had almost lost the farm, Ryan felt incredibly guilty. “I’m…sorry, I didn’t mean to bring up any bad memories.” He said, not knowing what else to say. He knew it must have been tough, and he felt bad for bringing up the question. Come Ryan, stay away from touchy subjects.

Though her response to his comment about some of his Marines buddies both excited and terrified him. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have another child. Max is getting old enough that he doesn't need me anymore, and it's hard to raise an only child to not be selfish sometimes. Max has been in daycare for years, but at home, it's just him, and he gets all the toys, all the food, and all of Mummy's attention. In the instant Ryan sat thinking to respond a multitude of thoughts rushed through his head. “Why would she bring up having more kids on the first date? Is this a date? Does this mean there might be a future? Or is she just speaking absently? Maybe she is trying to scare you off? How do you feel about having kids?” Thoughts just continued to rush through Ryan’s minds as to took a sip of coffee to collect himself. “Quiet down inner self. One step at a time, we will cross that bridge when it comes.” He thought. “I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but I can only imagine how difficult it must be.” HE said in regards to Max. “Though, I am sure you are doing an amazing job, he seems like a really good boy. You do seem pretty amazing to me.” He said, though only just realizing what had slipped out.

“How long have you been working for the bureau or living in DC?” Ryan asked, hoping to change the subject a bit. Not because he was nervous about where that conversation could go, just he was also trying to quiet his inner self.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1157
The Cafe
DC

Fiona listened to Ryan's joking about his job.

“Fiona, you have no idea how many times I get asked that. Though at least they made a show about it, so at least we have something to reference!...We are typically responsible for investigating actual, suspected, or alleged offense, usually felony level crimes as well as a myriad of other crimes, like terrorism, defection, etc. for the Department of the Navy. She nodded.

There's TV programs about the FBI, too, but it doesn't show what we ACTUALLY do. Rarely do we go out and catch a bad guy in an hour with our hair done, cute shoes, and tight pants. More like several years, 5 am bedhead and a whole lotta ground pounding. I guess they can't show that on TV, though, no one would watch it!...I see, and right, that DOES make sense, the Naval Criminal Investigative Unit...I worked with those guys one, when I was a probie, the FBI did a case with them, a contractor was killing girls at Boston Naval Yard... She trailed off. She was trying to NOT discuss work so it wouldn't bore him to death.

She finished her cinnamon roll, nearly destroying it as she ate it quickly. It was SOO good, and she was trying not to be overly excited by the sugar, but it had been awhile since she'd allowed herself to indulge and it was delicious, and it was looking like she was going to have to work through dinner, anyway, so she might as well enjoy herself while she could. That ALSO meant that she wouldn't get to see Max today, but at least there was the mornings.

“I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but I can only imagine how difficult it must be. She'd, as usual, rambled too much and now felt a little embarassed. She'd not meant anything more than rambling on about her life, her son was most of her life, and so he took center stage in most of her interactions with people. Though, I am sure you are doing an amazing job, he seems like a really good boy. You do seem pretty amazing to me. She blushed, and hid a smile behind her coffee cup. SHe took a sip then opened her mouth to speak.

Thank you. SHe couldn't come up with anything better. There was a silence for a moment before Ryan backtracked.

How long have you been working for the bureau or living in DC? She smiled a little.

I was recruited right out of college, actually. I went to Amherst, in Boston...it's a small, private college, and I got a degree in computer science. I moved to DC the summer after I got my masters, I was twenty-three, so I've been here five years total. She had just had Max, actually, and wasn't sure what it was going ot look like, having a kid alone with a demanding job. She was sure that the ONLY thing that kept it going was that her boss was a woman, quite a bit older than Fee, and had three kids of her own, and so she knew what Fee was facing. Oliver was decent like that...Now it was Fee's turn; she knew they were running out of time, but at least she could have some conversation that didn't involve either violence or cartoons for a little longer.

So...what did you do in the Marines? She asked. She'd never known anyone personally that had served; her family were immigrants, and Liam had chosen public service of a different sort. Not that she knew Ryan personally, though her boss, Kelly Oliver, had served and....

Tag:Ryan Alexander.

[Ryan Alexander]

1200
The Cafe
DC

He nodded at her mentioning that case. While he hadn’t been apart of that investigation at the time, it had been pretty big news for some of the special agents in the office. “I remember that one actually. I had been assigned to manage assets in the Multiple Threat Alert Center. If I recall, one of the Agent’s sister had nearly been a victim and that was how we were able to ID the guy which eventually resulted in his capture…Wow you destroyed that!” Ryan said thoughtfully and with laugh. While Ryan didn’t directly work on that case, it was possible that he might have had to send some documents to her without even realizing it. “Small world.” He muttered to himself as he listened to her respond to his question about how long she had been in DC. He couldn’t help but be captivated by her voice.

“I was recruited right out of college, actually. I went to Amherst, in Boston...it's a small, private college, and I got a degree in computer science. I moved to DC the summer after I got my masters, I was twenty-three, so I've been here five years total.” Ryan nodded. He had only been here for a little over 4 years. DC was a tough town but the work was rewarding. “I know you said you were recruited right out of college, but what made you decide to join the Bureau?”

No sooner had he asked the question did the waitress stopped by. “Is there anything else I can get either of you?” She asked politely. Ryan shook his head but waited to see if Fee wanted anything else.

“So...what did you do in the Marines?” Ryan smiled at the question,. “I had two jobs. My MOS was Meteorology. I did that for about a year and a half. I was deployed to CENTCOM on an Amphibious Assault Ship.” He said remembering the fun he had had on that deployment. “When I got back, I was assigned to the Special Security Office to one of the Intelligence Battalions and ran a few of the…programs.” He said with a shrug. His military bio was rather bland compared to others, he never was one to hide it, but he didn’t talk about it much.

Melissa quietly brought the check and placed in front of Ryan. Without fuss, he promptly handed her his credit card before Fee could protest or do anything of the sort.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1200
A cafe
DC

She smiled a little when Ryan continued the story of the case.

I remember that one actually. I had been assigned to manage assets in the Multiple Threat Alert Center. If I recall, one of the Agent’s sister had nearly been a victim and that was how we were able to ID the guy which eventually resulted in his capture…Wow you destroyed that! She hoped that was a GOOD thing, but she nodded.

Yes, that was us! Like I said, I was still a probie, I jsut did office work and things, but that's so weird. Like maybe they were INTENDED to meet or something. Cosmic.

I know you said you were recruited right out of college, but what made you decide to join the Bureau? She paused for a moment. Truthfully, it was because they paid more than NASA, and she could advance quicker than, say, at Facebook or some private company, but some of it was because she had wanted to feel like an adult. She felt like she was living under her father's thumb for most of her life, PARTICULARLY after the assualt, and taking a "real" job had soothed him that she'd be OK taking care of herself and Max. She told Ryan the summary.

NASA was recruiting, as well, but they start you out in the mail room...the FBI paid more. And I could've had my pick of private-sector jobs, but I fear that, one, I'd have to move to the West Coast, and two, I could advance quicker in the Beaurau. Plus, I like helping people...when I am at home, I am just Fiona, someone's mom, and that's fine but at work I can make a DIFFERENCE, you know?! I actually impact the world. She smiled a little. She was proud of that fact.

The waitress interruppted then, asking if they wanted anything else. She was finished, except for her coffee, and so she shook her head politely. Ryan then answered her question.

I had two jobs. My MOS was Meteorology. I did that for about a year and a half. I was deployed to CENTCOM on an Amphibious Assault Ship. When I got back, I was assigned to the Special Security Office to one of the Intelligence Battalions and ran a few of the…programs. She nodded, knowing there were things he wasn't GOING to tell her, things he SHOULDN'T tell her, and things he COULDN'T tell her. And vice versa.

MOS?! I took a class in Meterology. Actually, it was supposed to be Earth Science, but the professor used to work at the USGS. BUt that sounds like fun, anyway...did you enjoy it, at least? She asked. She always found it interesting why people had chosen the careers they did.

Then, the waitress returned with their check, and she saw Ryan pass over his credit card as fast as he could. She smiled, and decided she wouldn't fight him this time. She also noted, sadly, that it was almost time for her to return to work. She spoke once more.

Thanks, then, for lunch. It was lovely.

Tag:Ryan Alexander

[Ryan Alexander]

1205
A cafe
DC

NASA was recruiting, as well, but they start you out in the mail room...the FBI paid more. And I could've had my pick of private-sector jobs, but I fear that, one, I'd have to move to the West Coast, and two, I could advance quicker in the Beaurau. Plus, I like helping people...when I am at home, I am just Fiona, someone's mom, and that's fine but at work I can make a DIFFERENCE, you know?! I actually impact the world. Ryan was in awe. Only in his wildest dreams could he ever conceive working for NASA. “I bet that must have been a tough choice. I can only imagine what kind of projects you could have worked on.” Ryan said, wanting to add the whole, “If you had you might not have meet me!” But thought that that sounded a bit too corny, so instead, he said. “I know exactly what you mean, but you will never be just Fiona! And to Max, you are making the ultimate difference. It may just be one single life, but ultimately how you raise him and what you teach him will impact people, places, and things for generations. I just put on a tie, look amazing, and put bad guys away. You, you, make a real difference that could potentially change the world, while also putting on a suit, look amazing, and put away bad guys. I am envious.” Ryan didn’t know where that had come from. “That sounded even cornier than the meet me line, and pretty heavy You, Sergeant Alexander, are an idiot. You should have listened to me!” His inner self said. He knew exactly about how she felt with the job, but until that moment, didn’t really know how he had felt about family. “I guess now I do, huh?” He thought to himself.

He finished the last of his coffee, nearly feeling like he had just blown it. MOS?! I took a class in Meterology. Actually, it was supposed to be Earth Science, but the professor used to work at the USGS. But that sounds like fun, anyway...did you enjoy it, at least? “Well at least she is still partially interested, maybe you didn’t completely blow it.” His inner self said. “MOS is your Military Occupationally Specialty. While every Marine is a Riflemen, many of us wear other hates. My school was about 9 months long, it was essentially an accelerated College Course. When I completed it, I had an Associates Degree in Science from the Community College of the Air Force. They were the ones who taught the school. But, yes, I liked it. The SSO thing was really fun, and I got to become pretty close with the Headquarters Marine Corps SSO who got me the job at NCIS.” He said with a shrug. He smiled at Fiona as the waitress brought him his credit card back. He signed it and placed the card back into his wallet. He looked up at her, wishing that that could have some more time.

“Thanks, then, for lunch. It was lovely.” He heard her say. He felt like a million bucks. “I had an amazing time, and it was my pleasure. I would really like to this again sometime, sometime soon?” He asked, hoping that he didn’t sound too desperate or to forward. He had felt a whole range of emotions today. One moment, he felt he could take on the world, the next like he had fumbled the football on the 1 yard line at the Super Bowl. He just hoped that there would be a next time.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1207
A cafe
DC

Fee had apparently impressed him with her mention of NASA, though that wasn't her INTENTION.

I bet that must have been a tough choice. I can only imagine what kind of projects you could have worked on Fee shook her head lightly.

Probably nothing TOO amazing; I only have a degree in computers, after all, though I would LOVE to build a rocket. I can't wait for when Max is in the third grade; they get to build rockets then! Little fake ones out of Coke bottles, of course, but still... Yeah, Fee was kind of a closeted science-fiction nerd.

They finished the last bits of their coffees, and got ready to go, but Ryan wasn't totally finished speaking.

I know exactly what you mean, but you will never be just Fiona! And to Max, you are making the ultimate difference. It may just be one single life, but ultimately how you raise him and what you teach him will impact people, places, and things for generations. I just put on a tie, look amazing, and put bad guys away. You, you, make a real difference that could potentially change the world, while also putting on a suit, look amazing, and put away bad guys. I am envious. Fee didn't say aloud that he KINDA did look amazing, but she nodded.

I suppose you're right...I've never thought about it that way. She said, simply.

MOS is your Military Occupationally Specialty. While every Marine is a Riflemen, many of us wear other hates. My school was about 9 months long, it was essentially an accelerated College Course. When I completed it, I had an Associates Degree in Science from the Community College of the Air Force. They were the ones who taught the school. But, yes, I liked it. The SSO thing was really fun, and I got to become pretty close with the Headquarters Marine Corps SSO who got me the job at NCIS. She smiled and found her suit jacket.

Oh, friends in high places?! Interesting. You should do the TV weather. You have a pretty face; the ratings would go through the roof... At that, she blushed and closed her eyes. Great, Fee. That was brilliant.

Luckily, it was time to go, and she stood, and let him lead the way out. As they exited, he said something she did NOT expect.

“I had an amazing time, and it was my pleasure. I would really like to this again sometime, sometime soon? She grinned, and nodded.

Um...sure! I'd like that. I can get a sitter on Friday; one of my colleauges has a sister, Aimee Reid. She won't mind helping Blue, and...pick me up at 6. 1533 Jefferson at Green. In Georgetown Commons... She said, fumbling for her Bureau ID so she could avoid looking at his face so he couldn't see the emotions playing across her face...happy, nervous, and scared.

Tag@tinytwo.

[Ryan Alexander]

1210
A cafe
DC

“Oh, friends in high places?! Interesting. You should do the TV weather. You have a pretty face; the ratings would go through the roof…” Ryan blushed at her comment, “Not really friends per-se, I just impressed him enough that when a position opened up I got first dibs. And thank you for the compliment.” He said, his face a darker shade of red than it had ever been.

They left the Café he proceeded to walk her to her car and opened the door for her. Before she got in, she turned to him. “Um...sure! I'd like that. I can get a sitter on Friday; one of my colleauges has a sister, Aimee Reid. She won't mind helping Blue, and...pick me up at 6. 1533 Jefferson at Green. In Georgetown Commons...” Ryan nearly jumped with joy. “Another date and so soon? I must have a good impression.” He thought to himself. He watched her fumble for her badge and was beaming. “Perfect, it’s another date!” He didn’t want to say goodbye, though they both had work to do. Ryan had never been good at the dating, so he didn’t know what was considered proper or not. “This may be your only chance.” His inner voice said. He leaned in and kissed her on her cheek. “I will see you see you at 6 on Friday.” He said, not believing his good fortune. He helped her in, seeing her beat red face and gently closed the door. Ryan thought that she looked almost in a daze as she put the key in the ignition and started the car. Ryan started humming to himself a cheery tune as she drove away, walking with an extra skip in his step.

1745
Anniapolis
Later that Day

Ryan let out a sigh of relief. The lecture had gone rather well. A few questions had come up that he hadn’t had an immediate answer for but, beyond that it had gone rather well. Ryan nodded to a few midshipman as they filed out of the lecture hall thanking him for his lecture. Ryan finished packing up as the last one departed from the class. A burley Chief Petty Officer arrived to escort him back to the entrance. “You know Mr. Alexander, I don’t think any of the kids feel asleep this time.” The Chief said as they walked through the halls. Ryan looked at some of the display cases and plaques of the heroes that lined the hallways. “I took your advice from last time, and tried to keep it as barney style as possible.” He replied as they rounded a corner with the entrance insight. Ryan’s work phone buzzed, causing him to fumble with his laptop bag as he searched for his phone. “Excuse me Chief, Special Agent Alexander.” Ryan answered. “Ryan, its Director Vance. Do you remember that drug case you were working on, the on board the USS Abraham Lincoln?” Ryan nearly nodded, but remembered that he was on the phone. “Yes, sir. They case should be about closed, we found his half a kilo of coke in the hanger bay.” Ryan replied wondering where this was going. “I am aware. One of the witnesses said that he had another half a kilo stashed away somewhere on board. I need you to go back down to the Lincoln and try and find it. I know what you are thinking, why can’t the guys at Quantico take care of it. Well, this was your first case you were lead on, I thought you want to see it through. I talked with a friend of mine who is heading back to Norfolk this evening. If you can get to Andrews Field in the next hour, he has offered to you a ride. The guards at the gate are aware of your arrival, there will be someone at Norfolk waiting for you.” Director Vance said. “Roger that sir, and thank you.” Ryan said before his boss hung up. Ryan was surprised to have gotten a call from the Director. That wasn’t something that happened very often, and for half a kilo? It didn’t make much sense to Ryan, but the Big Boss gave him instructions, and he would be damned if he wasn’t going to see his first case through to the end.

2105
Norfolk
Peir 14
USS Abraham Lincoln

“Hello, Mrs. Jones? Could you do me a favor? Could you please feed and take Thor out? I have to work late tonight, in fact, I might not be home tonight, could you do the same for the morning as well?” Ryan had called Mrs. Jones on of his neighbors. She had her husband had been really helpful when he had first moved in, there son had been a Marine so when Ryan moved in they had taken an instant liking to him. When Ryan had got Thor as a puppy they had been more than willing to help out. “Of course dear, I hope that you are able to catch the crock like that Gibbs!” Mrs. Jones said. Ryan smiled to himself as he started to walk down the pier. Mrs. Jones was a fan of the show NCIS so she was always making references about the show. “Don’t worry Mrs. Jones, I will, and thanks again. I have to get going. Have a good night.” Ryan said has he hung up.

Ryan looked up at the looming steel monster that was the USS Abraham Lincoln. Ryan couldn’t have believed his luck today. First he had had an amazing date with an amazing and beautiful women, had a lecture go really well, and fly on a Generals private jet; a General who was friends with his boss and had told him several embarrassing stories about the man during their flight. Ryan was still ecstatic. As he neared the gang plank the smells of the pier assaulted him, the oil mixed with sea water, the navy gray paint, the smell of metal being welded; all of it reminded him of his first deployment in San Diego. It made him smile. Ryan couldn’t help but think how interesting things had been over last 5 years wondering where the next 5 years would take him. Who knows maybe he and Fiona would have a serious relationship, marriage possibly? He didn’t know, he knew that he wasn’t going to force it, only that he was excited to see where it took him.

He stepped onto the Starboard number 2 elevator and turned aft, facing the American Flag before turning to to the Petty Officer standing at his post. Ryan set down his laptop bag and held out his credentials. “Permission to come aboard?” “Granted, Come Aboard.” The Petty Officer replied. Ryan picked up his bag as he returned his credentials to his pocket. “Petty Officer, I am here to meet Master Chief Newsome, he should be expecting me.” Ryan said to the Petty Officer as he dialed the Master Chief up. Ryan nodded when the Petty Officer said he would be down in a few minutes, he was finishing up some final paperwork. Ryan could respect that, unlike some of his peers he wasn’t a self-important asshole, so he waited patiently. He had been enlisted once, and he had always hated Officers, Senior Enlisted, and anyone with a badge who thought that swinging there things around, that they got priority over anyone else.

“Alexander!” The chief bellowed as he descended one of the ladder wells. Ryan smiled and gave the grizzly chief a hug. “How long has it been since we were on the Peleliu? 6 maybe 7 Years now? Now look at you, dog gone working for NCIS. Couldn’t be more proud. How is good ol’ Rod? I heard he get an acting gig?” The Chief asked. “That’s right, he just finished filming the HBO miniseries, ‘The Pacific.’ He plays John Basilone.” Ryan commented as they headed through the hanger bay. “You know, if you hadn’t of talked him into it, he might still be in the Marine Corps, as unhappy as ever. Hey! No dog gone running!” The Master Chief yelled at some Seaman who rushed by. “I am glad he is actually following his dream.” Ryan said as they arrived at Master Chief Newsomes office. He opened the hatch and ushered Ryan through. “So Alexander, what bring you to the Lincoln so late? I didn’t make COB for nothing, so what can I do you for.” He asked, taking a set and leaning back. The old wooden chair creaking as he did. “Well Chief, it looks like Petty Officer Pain in the Ass still has half a kilo somewhere still in the Carrier. One of his accomplices ratted him out so I need to find it.” He said matter-of-factly. The chief ran a hand over his bald head, looking up at bulkhead and thinking. “Do you have any places that you want to look?” The chief asked after a moment. “Actually I do. It was something we should have checked last month, but it didn’t occur to me until an hour ago. Did any non-vital equipment break in the middle of the deployment and still hasn’t been fixed?” Ryan asked, leaning forward, resting his elbow on the arm of his chair. “Actually, now that you mention it, the head’s on deck 4-17-42-L. All 4 heads were down, and not flushing, we thought it was a clog and had been pulling piping to find it, but other porjects came up and we never finished.” The chief said, understanding taking place. “Does any portion of that system run near a cargo bay, or similarly unfrequented space?” Ryan asked, hoping that he might have just caught another break and wouldn’t be here all night. “Give me a minute.” The Chief said as he called up the Chief Engineer. It has always fascinated how the Chief Engineer always seemed to know where every pipe, every screw, and every wire went. I didn’t take the man long to reach the Chief Newsomes Office. “What can I do for you COB? I need to get that part request in by tonight or the Old Man is going to kill me.” “Well, sir, the Special Agent has a question for you.” Ryan stood and turned, showing the Engineer his credentials. “It shouldn’t take but a moment. Lieutenant, I need to know if the piping from heads on 4-17-42-L run near any unfrequented space. I am talking Cargo Bays, Gear Lockers, Fan Rooms, anything?” Ryan asked, hoping against hope that he was on the right track.

The Chief Engineer thought about it for a moment, closing his eyes and rubbing his temples. “Actually, I believe that system runs through one of the storage bays under the hanger bay and right through a gear locker.” He said as he opened his eyes. “I will get the fourth engineer to assist you, though, the cargo bay that it runs through is near the reactor. I will need to make some calls to see if you have the proper credentials.” The Chief Engineer said. The Nuclear reactor on board was highly controlled, only those with the proper clearance could get in. It seemed like a logical place to hide anything that could be considered contraband.

It took a while, but Ryan’s clearance verification came through. Ryan always hated that the government seemed to completely shut down at 1700 sharp. It did make getting things done rather difficult. “You would think that after 234 years they would have been able to fix that little issue.” Ryan mumbled to himself as he followed the fourth engineer down towards the cargo bay. Two Sentries stood guard and drew there weapons as the two approached. They stopped an waited for a third sentry to appear seemingly out of nowhere and inspect the credentials. He turned and faced the two by the hatch and nodded. The two slide a key card through the scanner and punched in a code. The hatch release disengaged and the hatch was pulled open another sentry standing inside. “Gentlemen, if you would follow me.” The Sentry who opened the door said.

IT took a few minutes for the two to get there brief. It was the same every time, don’t do this, please don’t touch anything, do your business and get out. It hadn’t been Ryan’s first time, but he still felt a little uneasy be near the reactor. It was safe and the exposure was less than standing out in the sun, but something about it was unnerving.

They proceeded to the Cargo Bay doing their best to make a straight line for it. The fourth Engineer and brought an abundance of tools, not wanting to have to go through the process again if he had forgotten something. Ryan had left his laptop back in the office with Master Chief Newsome but had brought an Evidence bag’s and gloves. The Cargo bay was mostly empty with a few crates pushed against one bulkhead. There was an upper access hatch that was secured from the inside of cargo bay that opened onto the hanger bay. It was one of two ways other than the hatch the Ryan and the fourth Engineer had entered, that you could get into the reactor area.

The Engineer went to work as soon as he identified the proper pipes. “Once I lay down the catch basin and start taking things apart, it shouldn’t take more than a half hour or so. Total time should be an hour.” He said as he got to work setting up the basin. Ryan watched him for a moment as he set up the deep basin to prevent any crude from spilling all over the deck. Ryan started to look around the piping seeing if there was anything out of the ordinary. He noticed some strange metal shards that looked to be a different type of material than what was around the area. He bent down and picked them up, placing them in an evidence bag. “Curious, I wonder what this is?” He said as he turned it over to look a little closer. He showed it to the Engineer who just shrugged. “No idea sir. Could be anything, are you sure that it could be evidence?” Ryan looked around and didn’t see anything that it could match. “It might be. Who know, maybe the lab can find out what it is and a least be able to reference what it was that was in this room that it came from. Does that make sense?” Ryan asked. “Sort of.” The Engineer said, laughing as he got to work on the piping.

Sure enough a little over an hour later, the next half kilo had been found. All covered in crude. “I ain’t touching it.” The Engineer said as he looked at Ryan.
-------
0720
Quantico
NCIS
The Next Day.

Ryan hadn’t slept at all. As soon as they had found the rest of the evidence Ryan had taken it and the strange fragments directly Quantico. Luckily he still had access to the generals jet and was able to get a direct flight to Naval Air Station on the Marine Base there. That had saved him nearly 2 hours driving. Because of the Directors blessing he had had full access to the lab. He had had the night shift working there magic. He knew it would normally take weeks to get the results but all he was looking for was a base match. Nothing too detailed, though he was a bit curious if he could figure out what kind of metal that was. All those crates had been wooden and it was an odd color.

Ryan was pouring himself a cup of coffee when he got the call to come down to the lab. “That was fast.” He thought to himself as made his way to the lab. When he arrived he saw the lab tech going over some results with a strange look on his face. “You are not going to believe this.” He said as he motioned for Ryan come closer. “Listen, I was never any good at Chemistry, and I never took college chemistry. Walk me through this. Are the drugs we found last night a match to the ones that we logged in a month ago?” He said having no idea what the Tech was trying to show him. “The Drugs? Ya, they match. But that is not what is exciting. This metal or whatever it is, is unique. It doesn’t show up on the periodic table. Where did you find this?” “Wait, THE periodic table? The one that shows us all the chemicals and metals and has that catchy little song? You are saying that THESE little shards are made of something not on that able? Bull Crap.” “Yes!” The Tech exclaimed. “Doesn’t it take days to run these tests?” “Usually, but it popped up almost instantly. I ran the test twice and still go errors. Where did you find this?” Ryan sat down for a moment still ignoring the question as to where he found it, running a hand through his hair. “What the hell did I just find?” He thought to himself. “I need you copy all the data to a disk, and classify it working papers. Attach the rest to the case file but mark it TS//SI/TK/G, you can put my name down for the classification authorization. If we accidently picked up something that we don’t know what it is, I don’t want to get burned for it. I am going to do some digging. I found it on the Lincoln. And thank you.” Ryan said before departing the lab and heading up to MTAC.

Ryan spent the next few hours looking though the NCIS database seeing if he could find anything referencing a new undiscovered element. He combed through TS file after TS file to the point that he felt like his eyes were going to bleed. Ryan leaned back in his chair and cracked his back before looking at his watch. Crap, it is almost 1300. He said to himself. He didn’t know why he was looking so hard but something was strange about this. At least he had the foresight to finish his report during the night with the assumption that drugs were a match, that he was able to spend the time up here looking though he needed to get back to DC. He yawned, only then realizing how tired he was. He typed up a message to some of SSO buddies sending out some feelers to see if they might have come across anything like this. If they had there might be a security leak. And the drugs would be the least of this kid’s problems. He also CC’ed Fiona and the Captain aboard the Lincoln, seeing if maybe she use some of her FBI contacts to find out what the program. The Captain may have known something about it at least. Ryan yawned again as he logged out. He just had to brief the Director and he could go home. “Aboard a personal jet.” He chuckled to himself as he departed MTAC.
--------
1745
1533 Jefferson at Green. In Georgetown Commons
DC
Friday

Ryan stood in front of Fee house holding a bouquet of flowers. He didn’t even know if Fee like flowers, but since he was picking her up he didn’t want to come empty handed. He had been busy at work over the last few days. He had been looking into those strange shards, but hadn’t gotten anywhere. None of his friends knew anything about it, and the Captain had only said that he would look into it. Director Vance had put out some feelers and hadn’t gotten any bites either. He had said he sending a team down to go over the records and interview some more of the crew. Ryan had so much to tell Fee, and was excited that it was finally Friday.

He had been waiting for this for the entire week. He walked up to her front door and took a deep breath. “God, I hope I am not too early.” His inner self said as he rang the door bell.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1212-2115
A cafe
DC

They prepared to say their goodbyes, and Fee had surprised by readily accepting his invitation for another meal. She hoped that he didn't think her too forward, but Fiona had a good instinct, and her gut said that Ryan was a good guy. It would be scary, and awkward, for her alone with a male, but she was gainging strides, and she felt OK with him-nothing about him set of alarm bells. She'd learned-not just as a coping mechanism as a result of her assualt, but also in her job-to look for the things that everyone else missed-"Truth tells-" those things that indicated if one was being truthful or not. Ryan hadn't had any of those during their lunch-he seemed as he said he was.

Not really friends per-se, I just impressed him enough that when a position opened up I got first dibs. And thank you for the compliment....Perfect, it's another date. I will see you see you at 6 on Friday.

I'll see you then!

She smiled, but blushed when he kissed her cheek. As she checked the car-for safety reasons-and climbed in to the giant SUV that served as her Max-mobile, hauling a five year old, his bag, the dog, and whatever other friends/sports/computers/random equipment she was also in charge of that day. She turned the car towards Quantico, and tried to focus on her driving and NOT overanalyzing her lunch with Ryan.

Work. It proceeded with a speed that might render someone with a light constiution slightly dizzy, but Fee lived for it. She was the Technical Analyst, and her team was a sub-team of the Behavioral Studies unit, and while she was DYING for a spot on the flagship BAU, she was happy enough in her little corner. That day had her tapping into the private lives of a group of teenaged girls who'd sworn to a pregnancy pact...one of the girls had gotten cold feet, it appeared, and was killing the rest to hide the evidence. The female in Fiona was sympathetic, but the mother in her wanted the girl to fry. It was a strange sort of world she lived in, balancing two worlds at once-the logical one and the one in which the focus was on Seasame Street, GI Joe, and crayons. It was the oddest mash up of evil and good, and she always tried to make sure that her "MOM" world never mixed with her work world.

The calls were incessant-an agent needed this number, and one needed a background check. Another wanted her to call her home and relay to her husband that they'd be home when they could. She fielded these, and more-the Bureau DID go on even when the field teams were out of the area. The Director didn't care that she was assigned to a Red Cell; she was a TA and she could help (in his view). So she did THAT work, in between her actual assignments. Somehow, she also found time to send an email to one of Max's teachers-the music teacher was a bit concerned about Max's recent insistence on the costumes, and she did her best to reassure the woman that it was a phase. Max's psychologist had suggested that Max was trying to exert control over some aspects of his life, and to create a hero he could look up to-since he didn't have a father. She blamed herself for this, but told the woman what the doctor had said. She wondered what sort of damage it might create once Max learned that his father wasn't Bruce Banner and was, in fact, a criminal and a...well, a word that she wouldn't use in general company, but it was fitting anyway. She planned to tell him, when he was old enough to understand. She just didn't know WHEN that was yet.

By the time her next meal came around-6 PM-she realized she wasn't going to see her kid that night, and reluctantly phoned Hannah Gold, the old woman who lived next door and helped her with Max when she and Blue had to work.

Mrs. Gold?! Yes, hi. How is he?! Thanks for staying later, I DO appreciate it. I think I can be out of here in about two hours, is that OK with you? Fee didn't want the elderly woman out TOO late, but she wasn't like other older people-she was still kicking, and Fee felt confident that the woman knew her limits. Truthfully, she wasn't THAT old, in her late '60's, with a son who lived in Florida and a grandson of her own. The woman assured her they were fine-that they were playing some cards, and she'd have him in bed by 8:30, his usual bed time. Thank you, Hannah. I can pay you tomorrow.[/i] Fee knew that the older woman would probably watch Max for free if Fee needed it, but she never took it. Fee was PERFECTLY capable of providing for herself and her son. She had left some casserole, but Mrs. Gold kept Kosher, and sometimes made interesting Jewish meals for Max and her, which Blue usually complained were stinky. Fee didn't know-the townhouse was airy and by the time she got in, it was usually too late for her to care, anyway. After she hung up with Mrs. Gold, she finished trolling the Sacramento Police Department's records for anything pertainient to the father of their chief suspect, and this, for some reason, jogged her memory. She better find something decent to wear on Friday. Would it be amiss to BUY something new?! She didn't want to appear desperate, but she also didn't know if she had any date-worthy clothes that actually FIT. Oh, hell, she'd just wear a suit. How did other women do it, anyway?! Manage to look decent-most days, Fee figured that if she got into work without wrinkles, that was one point for her! And if she got through the day without spilling mustard, coffee or otherwise messing herself up, that was an awesome day. Today was shaping up to be one of those days-she was SOOO surprised she hadn't embarassed herself at lunch and spilled something on her shirt. It was becoming less and less problematic as Max grew up; she was no longer in danger of turning up with spit-up on her clothes, but now she worried about cookie crumbs, or a dinosaur imprint or something.

Two hours later, Fee's boss had excused her for the night. FINALLY. She headed for home, deciding that she would tell Max about Ryan and her date if he were still up, as he sometimes couldn't sleep until she got home. Traffic was light this late at night, and she was able to make the drive from Quantico to downtown DC in about 30 minutes. She headed inside, leaving her work tote in the car-she wouldn't need it overnight-or so she hoped. She put her purse and coat on the same hanger in the hall closet, and then saw Mrs. Gold out. The woman had mentioned that Max wanted her to come and tuck him in, so after she watched and waited for Hannah to shut the door and put on the porch light-indicating she was OK-Fee kicked off her shoes, and headed for Max's room. She opened the door, and heard his light, even breathing, and sighed. She'd missed him, and would talk to him in the morning. She quietly padded to the bed, put his blanket around his head, and kissed him before she went to the kitchen to have some tea-one thing about her childhood and time in Ireland she missed a lot was a proper teatime. She ate a sandwich, and then made Max's lunch for the next day, ignored Blue as she washed her face, and then took Jacques out for a quick potty break. They lived in a safe neighborhood, and Jacques was too old to walk too far. She was out for only about ten minutes, and then it was FINALLY time for sleep. Just as she was drifiting off, she permitted herself a bit of childish, high-school-ish freaking out about herself...would she be enough, alone, with Ryan without the benefit of time restraints, firearms and Fed privilages?! She decided she was being stupid, and then cuddled into Jacques as she fell asleep. Tomorrow, she'd phone her stepmother and get the woman's opinion on what to do with her hair-Syd, her stepmother, was a hairdresser, and while Fee wasn't exceptionally feminine, she DID try to take care of herself.

-------------------------------------
1745
Maccafferty/Yagami Residence
Friday

Across town, Fee was getting her own pre-date razzing. She'd told a girl she worked with, and Melanie, who reminded her a bit of Maggie Lefebvre, a CIA agent she'd worked with once, had spread the news to EVERYONE. Fee supposed that it WAS surprising-she was vaguely aware she was pretty, and attractive to her male colleauges, but she wanted to be liked because she was intelligent and witty, not just for her looks. Maybe that's why she chose to dress like she did-none of her suits were very flattering, and she usually just wore jeans anyway. The suit she'd worn on Wednesday was a one-off; she'd been interviewing new TA's, and so she'd had to look a little decent. But she'd not worn much makeup besides colored chapstick and her hair had been left to flow.

Blue and Melanie finished harassing her, and Mia gave her a barrette that Fee had wanted to borrow. She was going to TRY to put her hair up like Syd had told her-put it in a ponytail, then twist it up into a bun, and secure it with a sparkly barrette-out her way, pretty, AND not TOO much. Fee didn't like anything ostentatious, and she was planning on wearing something that could pass for semi-casual-Max thought she should wear a dress, but she was still hestitant.

She finished the last bit of her work-emailing the lab reports to Oliver, and then reviewed the final picks for the new class of Probie TA's with Garcia. They'd settled on three-a Daphne Woodreaux, a Samuel Robinson, and one that would be a later transfer from the DOD-a former Petty Officer Jamie Shoulders, who had now gotten a degree. She might ask Ryan to look into the woman; the FBI had, of course, done background checks, but there was nothing better than word-of-mouth recommendations. Finally, the stupid, slow, old FBI email service had told her it had delivered the proper information to Ryan-it had been weird getting a work-related email from him, but she had been able to help a little-and now it was time to head home, to dress, feed Max, and endure HIS endless questions about every damned thing under the sun. It was tough to be a single parent, and harder still when your kid was a certified genius with OCD and maybe a little ADD. She was leaving Blue in charge for the evening, and this worried her a TINY bit. The woman was quiet, but she and Fee understood each other, and got on well, but Blue wasn't always the most practical person-logical? Totally. A little dumb to the ways of the world? Most definitely. Fee knew the reasons why, but still. She had already ordered a pizza-the one thing that Blue and Max DID agree on, food wise, and Aimee, the teenaged girl up the block, DID say she'd look in as she came and went from whatever it was that 16 year old girls did these days. For Aimee, Fee was certain this was merely shopping and maybe light partying-her father was an FBI agent with the HRT, and she knew that the child was a "good" girl-Fee could tell. 

She arrived home, and Max was already waiting. 

Mom, can I have some soda with my pizza?! Are you going to wear THAT? Grandma called-she wanted to know if you had done your hair yet. And Aunt Aislinn, too! She was going to tell you about...what's lipstick?! Also, can Angela come over tomorrow?She sighed, but smiled at the boy. She moved forward, and answered Max as she put her things away. 

No, Max, it's after 4, you know the rule about sugar and caffiene this late. Tomorrow we can have a little with lunch. No, I am NOT going to wear THIS, but maybe something like it. I will phone Syd and Ash, thanks. Lipstick is what mommy wears on her mouth when I give you kisses that I want to stay to show the world you are mine! And I don't know yet; it SOUNDS ok, but I will need to talk to Mrs. Andrews, ok? I can phone her before Ryan gets here, IF I have time. In the meantime, please put your books away. Fifteen more minutes of video games, and then the TV goes off until Miss Blue says you can watch a video, ok? She smiled, and patted his back as he nodded and trotted off. He was a good boy, and she had a few rules, the biggest of which were "no soda and no video games after 4 pm." The rest were basic rules about respect, and keeping one's space clean, but she wasn't TOO strict-she didn't think. She hurried into the bedroom, dialing her stepmother, and relayed to the woman that she'd just gotten in. They went over a couple of things, including discussing her and Fee's dad coming for the upcoming Labor Day weekend. Fee was fine with that, and then she called her sister in law. She listened absently as Aislinn (which is pronounced "Ash-lynn" in Celtic) prattled on about what color eyeshadow Fee should wear...or something. Fee couldn't bring herself to care. It was days like this that she was glad she'd had a son-boy things made sense to Fee. Makeup, princesses and pink did not. As Ais prattled on, she put the phone on speaker and began to go through her closet. Ryan had hinted in his last email that the place they were eating at was fairly nice, so she decided that jeans and a clean sweater were a No-go and moved to the three dresses at the back of her closet. One was SUPER fancy-left over from her father's wedding. There was a casual sundress, which MIGHT work if she dressed it up. She settled on a green dress, which she bought one time for a Beaurea Christmas party, which she wound up not being able to attend because Max had caught the flu. It still had the tag on it, and, to her surprise, it still fit. She rifled around in the closet, finally sighing with relief when Aislinn told her that Liam had gotten home and she had to go, and as Fee turned off the phone, she found a matching pair of shoes. That would be fine. She dressed quickly, put up her hair like her stepmom said-she HOPED, since she couldn't see the back-and then put on a TINY bit of makeup. She switched out her usual necklace-a cheap costume jewlery pendant that read "mom"- a Mother's Day gift from Max-and chose a silver Celtic knot necklace and a pair of stud earrings. She looked at herself in the mirror-it was as good as it was going to get. She shrugged, and then answered the door for the pizza man, called Betsy Andrews and decided that Angela and Max could use a day at the Children's Museum, and then she started to get nervous. As Max and Blue ate food and tried to engage her in conversation, she drank tea, switched some things from her work tote to an actual purse-including pepper spray and a whistle, because you could never be TOO careful-and checked the time. Normally, she'd be having dinner with Max-they tried to eat meals together whenever possible-and feilding calls from work. Kelly had told the rest of the team that Fee was to be left alone for the night-for which Fee was partly grateful, for obvious reasons, but partly sad-she might NEED a distraction later. 

Finally, it was time, and right on the dot, her doorbell rang. She sprang up, but Max was faster. In a moment, the front door was open, Jacques was having a cow, and she could hear two male voices-one small and piping, the other deeper and older. She looked at Blue, who stared at her, her expression unreadable, and then she stood, and made her way into the living room, where Max was already interrogatting poor Ryan. 

So...where are you taking my mom?! Are you a cop, too?! I know you have a dog, but do you have anything else? I want a cat, but Mom says no. Do YOU have a mom? Is she bossy like my mom? Fee made a FACE at Max, who smiled sweetly at her. This show had a hint of Liam in it, and once Fee so much as laid an eye on her brother, he was SOOO dead. She was glad he cared, though...both of them. She cleaed her throat. 

Max, please let him come in, ok?! Put Jacques out for a bit, until I leave. Also, please rinse your plate if you're finished, and put it into the dishwasher. She smiled at Ryan and took the flowers. 

Thank you, these are beautiful. I am sorry for Max... She trailed off. She indicated the couch. 

You can sit there, if you like, while I get these in water and get my things. If Max bothers you, feel free to tell him to take a hike. I THINK he's trying to be protective, though. Fee was a little bewildered-Max usually shied away from people, so maybe this was a sign?! She quickly hurried to the kitchen, filled a vase with the flowers and water, placed it on the fireplace, and grabbed her purse and coat. She was ready, and turned to Ryan. This took literally a minute and a half-Fee wanted to get out before Max got any more ideas. 

Let's go. She'd already reminded Max and BLue that bedtime was STRICTLY 8:30 and she would have her cell, but if they called, someone had best be dying. Blue had assured her they'd be OK, and a box of Checkers had appeared, so Fee was confident they'd be OK. She let Ryan take her arm and lead her out. The bird flapped away in her stomach, and she tried to think of something not TOTALLY stupid to say. 

You look great. 

Tag:Ryan Alexander, outfit: HERE

[Ryan Alexander]

1747
Maccafferty/Yagami Residence
Friday

Much to Ryan’s surprise little Max had been Ryan’s greeter and interrogator. So...where are you taking my mom?! Are you a cop, too?! I know you have a dog, but do you have anything else? I want a cat, but Mom says no. Do YOU have a mom? Is she bossy like my mom? Ryan smiled and laughed, though leaned in so Fee wouldn’t hear. “We are going to the Lafayette’s downtown. Don’t tell you mom.” He said conspiratorially. He straitened still smiling at his other questions. “Yes, I am a cop too, though I am a different kind of cop. And no, I don’t have any other pets. I like cats, but when I am around them for too long I can’t breathe. Yes I have a mom, but she is WAY bossier then your mom.” He said as Fee entered the room, he gave her a wink as she neared. Handing her the flowers as she told Max to do some chores. “Thank you, these are beautiful. I am sorry for Max...” Ryan shook his head. “No, it is quite alright. I just hoped I passed the interrogation!” He said happily, as she gestured for him to sit on the couch. You can sit there, if you like, while I get these in water and get my things. If Max bothers you, feel free to tell him to take a hike. I THINK he's trying to be protective, though. Ryan nodded and did as instructed. He was a visitor to their home, and while he figured he wasn’t going there for long, he would do as instructed. He looked around as he heard Fee look for something to but the flowers in. He noticed some pictures on the wall though they were just far enough away that he couldn’t see much of the details, though they clearly showed Fee and Max.

Ryan smiled and stood up as Fee returned to the front room. “Let's go.” She said, as she grabbed her coat and purse. Ryan opened the door for her and escorted her out into the evening. He had tried to get a close parking spot but unfortunately Ryan had to park a little ways down the block. “You look great.” He heard her say. Ryan blushed. “Thank you, but I must say Fiona, you look truely amazing!” Ryan said, smiling. Ryan felt really self-conscious about smiling when Fee was around. Though it was only their second date he didn’t want to appear to be aloof. “Uh Fiona, please forgive me if smile too much. With you around, I just can’t help it.” He said not trying to sound corny or cheesy.

After a few moments of walking and talking they arrived at Ryan’s vehicle. Ryan wasn’t wealthy by any means but he was fortunate that he had had a father who was mechanically inclined. Up until Ryan became a NCIS agent he had been driving an older Jeep Cherokee. Ryan had fixed it so many times that there was barely and original part left on it. He was still driving it as his daily commuter. However, when Ryan had gotten his credentials his dad had driven from Oregon and given him his old, dark blue ’69 Mustang. Ryan still remembered the day he had been given the keys and remembered the look on his dads face. He had been so proud of him. Ryan had grown up working on that car with his dad, and couldn’t believe that his dad would just give it to him.

Ryan had decided that he would drive the Mustang this evening. He wasn’t trying to impress Fee, he just thought that it would be something fun to cruise around in. He smiled as he opened the door for her. “Your Chariot awaits.” He said, giving slight bow as he held the door for her.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1748
Fee's home-->dinner
DC

Fiona just gave Max a LOOK as they left. It was a look that said "Behave". She knew he would, but it was important to remind him anyway.

As they left, Fee couldn't help but notice the car. It was an older Mustang, an original, and she died a little. She herself had a "pleasure" car, a 1968 dark blue Karmann Ghia. It was her car from High School, and she LOVED it. Her father was a mechanic, and had bought the shell, and had taught Fee to rebuild the engine and do all the maintence-it was, truly, HER car. It was also the same color and model as the original Nancy Drew drove. That, of course, was not why Fee had it, but it was a cool fact nonetheless. The old Volkswagen sat in the garage, covered, and Fee treated it as most people would fine diamonds or heirloom china. The only thing that got better treatment was Max.

No, it is quite alright. I just hoped I passed the interrogation...Thank you, but I must say Fiona, you look truely amazing She blushed a little as they walked down the block a little. Her neighborhood was old and had bad parking; unless you owned one car or maybe a moped, even the homeowners had a problem parking. Her giant Mom car took up most of the driveway, and Blue's scooter took up the rest. She had NO idea what they would do if another person moved in or something.

Thanks. This old thing...I was surprised it still fit. I bought it for a Bureau Christmas party a few years ago, but I couldn't attened because Max got the flu and it was so close to Christmas I didn't feel right asking someone to watch him. That was before Blue moved in, but, anyway I am glad now I kept it. Frankly, she'd forgotten about it's exsistence, actually, but she WAS glad she'd kept it.

Then, Ryan said something she didn't expect.

Uh Fiona, please forgive me if smile too much. With you around, I just can’t help it. She blushed a little MORE and then lowered her gaze.

Tell me, Ryan, do you say that to ALL the girls? She teased him gently. Her eyes lit up a bit when she saw his car, though.

Your Chariot awaits... He even gave a little bow at the door, and she laughed before she slid in carefully.

Thank you! So...where ARE we going? Max just said I looked "okay" for where we were going. She shook her head. Males-wether little boy or big boy-were all the same when it came to fashion.

Tag:Ryan Alexander. This one is kind of weird, but....

[Ryan Alexander]

1750
Fee's home-->dinner
DC

"Tell me, Ryan, do you say that to ALL the girls?" Ryan smiled again, and laughed. He had never been smooth or suave, in fact women he had dated and always called him blunt. He just shook his head. “No, just to you.” He said with a little smirk as she slide into the passenger seat. Ryan checked his watch and gently closed the door. Ryan had planned for more time, there reservation wasn’t until 1845 so they still had plenty of time.

“Thank you! So...where ARE we going? Max just said I looked "okay" for where we were going.” Ryan chuckled at her question as he started his car. The V8 roared to life, causing Ryan’s inner self wanting to floor it. “No, stop, you are on a date remember? It is ok to go fast, sometimes. But not right out of gate.” He thought to himself. The briefest look of disappoint flashed across his face. He shifted into first and pulled out, heading towards downtown. “We are headed to a nice little place downtown. If you don’t mind I would like to keep it a surprise?” He said as he veered the car down the road.

1925
Lafayette's -->Reflecting Pool
DC

Ryan never did get to let his car go. They arrived at the restaurant a little after 1915. There had been a big accident on freeway, though luckily no had been seriously hurt. But the accident had caused them to be delayed by nearly an hour and a half. Fee and Ryan had talked while in the car, the resulting time together and conversation had been really enjoyable. Fee had been the one asking most the questions this time. Ryan had explained a bit about his childhood, how his dad had been an Engineer for a big power company on the West Coast and he taught him nearly everything he knew about working his hands. HE explained that his dad had wanted him to know the basics of carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Working on the Mustang had been there hobby together when had been in middle school and into high school. He also told her that he was an Eagle Scout, and that that was one of the reasons why he loved the outdoors and a partial factor that lead him to join the Marines. When Ryan had realized that they were going to miss the reservation, he had called to see if he could get it changed. They had said they might have an opening but being that it was Friday night, they might be out of luck. Unfortunately by the time they arrived, they had given away their reservation and the wait time was close to two hours. Though the hostess had taken pity on Ryan and had offered them to use there vallet without charge for the inconvenience.

With a discouraged look on his face he and Fee headed down Pennsylvania Ave. “I am sorry Fiona. I really wanted to take you someplace nice.” He said a little disappointed. Ryan wasn’t one to not have a back-up plan so he did know a good little outdoor Arabic café near the Lincoln Memorial. The place had some of the best shawarma’s in town. “I hope you don’t mind shawarma’s. There is this place right near the memorial where they make some of the best I have ever had.” He told her as escorted her down the Avenue. Ryan hopped that if they couldn’t eat at Lafayette’s, they could at least enjoy something delicious and watch the sunset on the reflecting pool. He had always wanted to do that.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1750-1927
From DC commons to DC proper
The restaurant

Fee was surprised to find that she wasn't totally freaked out by being in a closed-off so close to strange male. Not that he was strange but...she was SOO glad he couldn't hear her thoughts. She let him talk at her while she forced herself to keep calm.

No, just to you...We are headed to a nice little place downtown. If you don’t mind I would like to keep it a surprise? She felt herself blush AGAIN, but shook her head. She DIDN'T mind, exactly, but she also didn't like surprises, especially from new people. But she supposed this is what dating was. Maybe she should have listened to Doc H sooner and put herself out there. Not that she'd been TRYING to find Ryan, but she guessed he had a point.

I don't mind...

UGH, DC traffic. That was one thing she'd never gotten used to-why a town that was literally twelve miles from end to end could take HOURS to cross. She'd never spent more time in her car than she did when she moved there. There was an accident, but Ryan stayed calm, which she hoped was a testament to his overall demeanor and that he wasn't just putting on a show for her.

Finally, they arrived at a nice, upscale resturant. She'd wanted to go there, but couldn't find anyone to go with her...it was too nice to take Max to, and none of her girlfriends would go that far for a girl's night out. She stood at the peering pond, waiting for Ryan to sort out thier reservations, and she shook her head when she how upset he was. She preferred less fancy things, anyway. She was still a poor immigrant's daughter, and had been taught to appreciate the things one DID have.

I am sorry Fiona. I really wanted to take you someplace nice....I hope you don’t mind shawarma’s. There is this place right near the memorial where they make some of the best I have ever had. She took his hand, hoping he wouldn't think her too forward, but mostly it was because crowds made her more nervous than being alone in a car did. She replied, taking HER turn to be corny and dorky.

It will be nice because you're there, and the weatherman said it's going to be a BEAUTIFUL night. And Shawarma is LOVELY. I don't eat it often because Max doesn't like Indian or Middle Eastern food. He says it's too spicy. At least he'll eat a little sushi, though, so not all hope is lost. She REALLY hoped her stupid brain could think of more to discuss than the eating habits of five year olds.

Tag@tinytwo

[Ryan Alexander]

1930
The Restaurant -> Reflecting Pool
Friday

It will be nice because you're there, and the weatherman said it's going to be a BEAUTIFUL night. And Shawarma is LOVELY. I don't eat it often because Max doesn't like Indian or Middle Eastern food. He says it's too spicy. At least he'll eat a little sushi, though, so not all hope is lost. Ryan smiled at her comment, a touch of red touching his cheeks. “That makes me happy to hear you say that.” He said glad to hear that she was willing to go for Shawaema’s. “I am sure max will try new things eventually. My parents said I was a picky eater growing up, but now, I will eat almost anything! I am sure that Max will too! Maybe he just needs someone to show him the right things?” Ryan said with a little laugh. He didn’t mind that Fee kept mentioning Max, it was a subject that must be comfortable with, and she seemed extremely proud of her son. Ryan couldn’t help but admire her for that.

Ryan gently lead Fee down Pennsylvania Avenue, taking a slight right onto 19th taking them right through the Construction Gardens. “I know I did a lot of talking in the car, but is there anything else you would like to know? I am a pretty open book.” He said, trying to be as open and honest as possible. He felt a little bad for asking so many questions at the coffee shop he wanted to allow her to ask any and all questions. Ryan looked at his watch, before looking at the Sun, they had still had little over 15 minutes till sunset. He smiled happily, as they got close to the Shawarma Stand.

He smiled to Ibrahim. “Masaa el kheer! Kaifa haloka?” Ryan asked in Arabic. He had picked up a little during his time in Saudi Arabia and in Bahrain, He always made it habit of greeting people in their native tongue. “Ana bekhair, shokran! Ryan! Welcome! And who is lovely lady?” Ibrahim asked. “This is a close friend of mine. Ibrahim, this is Fiona. Fiona, this is Ibrahim. He is one of our interpreters for NCIS and sometimes the DoD if they need him. He also just happens to run the best Shawarma stand in DC when he isn’t working with us.” Ryan said, introducing the two. “Can we get two of your specials this evening?” “Of course, it will be right up.” Ibrahim retreated into the back for the cart, making there meal. “I hope you like Spiced Chicken. His next door neighbor has small flock of chickens so the meat is usually really fresh. And he gets most of his spices from his garden.” Ryan said with smile.

Ibrahim returned a few moments later. “And here you are my friend.” He said as he handed the two their Shawarma’s. Ryan was fishing out his wallet to pay but Ibrahim held up his hand. “No, my friend. Enjoy the treats on me.” He said with a wink. “Araka fi ma ba'd!” “Ryan smiled, “Shokran” He thanked his friend Ibrahim.

Ryan and Fee managed to make it to the reflecting pool right at sunset. The oranges, reds, the yellows, the sun silhouetting the Washington Monument, it was truly a sight to see. This had only been the second time Ryan had see the Reflecting Pool at sunset. The first time had been with Thor when Ryan had first got him and he was trying to socialize him with other animals. Without even realizing it, he reached for her hand and gently squeezed it. “I am really glad to be able to spend this evening with you.” He said blushing slightly.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

Arabic 1: Good Evening!
Arabic 2:  How are you?
Arabic 3: I'm Fine, Thank you.
Arabic 4: See you Later!
Arabic 5: Thank you

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1935
Reflecting Pond
Friday/DC

Fee had been a LITTLE surprised that the Shawarama "place" was actually a stall-style operation. She wasn't sure WHY she was surprised, but maybe because it was kind of low-brow in comparison to Lafayette's. She didn't mind, actually-she was a simple girl, the daughter of a immigrant, and a place that had actual plates, even paper ones, counted as "nice" in her book. She was also un-stuffy, so she was glad to be a littl relaxed, actually. They could TALK without having to worry about messes (on her clothes, no doubt), or spilling wine or something.

That makes me happy to hear you say that...I am sure max will try new things eventually. My parents said I was a picky eater growing up, but now, I will eat almost anything! I am sure that Max will too! Maybe he just needs someone to show him the right things? She shrugged, but her eyes were shining just a bit. Did that maybe mean that Ryan wanted to show Max?! Even if it didn't go anywhere with THEM, there wasn't any reason why Max couldn't have older male friends. Except that that sounded just a TINY bit creepy. She was, again, glad that Ryan couldn't hear her thoughts.

Perhaps. I've learned them, as an adult, but I grew up on cabbage, potatoes, and sausage, pretty much three meals a day everyday. So even when he stays with my dad and stepmother, he isn't exposed to a WHOLE lot more. I try to cook normal, non-Irish foods, but I am kind of a mess in the kitchen, and at least Blueberry is Japanese and cooks it for us sometimes. He's coming around-at least he will have actual salads now. He's always been big on veggies, but he used only eat them separate, and- She shut her mouth for a moment, realizing that her entire half of the conversation had revolved mostly around Max. Yeah, she was proud of him, but had she really become THAT person?! The mom who lost herself to her kid(s)? She HAD. In her zealousness to NOT be her own mother, and to make up the fact that Max's father wasn't in the picture, she had become the mother who was *just* Mom with no life of her own. This made her feel like tossing herself off the side of pier. Of course, she WOULDN'T, but she was amazed that Ryan had listened this long. She opened her mouth again.

I am sorry. I realized that I keep prattling on about Max. I promise not to any more, unless you ask specifically. I think it's fair that you know about ME, right? Well, THAT sounded stupider. Oh, well. With Fee, it was pretty much "what you see is what you get."

I know I did a lot of talking in the car, but is there anything else you would like to know? I am a pretty open book. She shrugged. At the moment, there WASN'T, actually. But she'd keep it in mind.

The approached the Shawarma stand, and she smiled when Ryan greeted the man behind the till in what sounded to HER like perfect Arabic. It wasn't one of the four languages she spoke herself, but it SOUNDED nice to her ears.

Masaa el kheer! Kaifa haloka....This is a close friend of mine. Ibrahim, this is Fiona. Fiona, this is Ibrahim. He is one of our interpreters for NCIS and sometimes the DoD if they need him. He also just happens to run the best Shawarma stand in DC when he isn’t working with us. She nodded at Ryan, and grinned at Ibraham.

It's nice to meet you. It smells heavenly. She hoped she didn't sound silly. So she was a "close friend," eh?! She thought about that for a moment, and decided she was OK with it...for now, especially. The two men went back and forth for a moment, and Ryan placed an order for them. Normally, she would mind this-she WAS independent, and intelligent, but she didn't think that Ryan meant it to be anything but a nice gesture, so she let it slide.

I hope you like Spiced Chicken. His next door neighbor has small flock chickens so the meat is usually really fresh. And he gets most of his spices from his garden. She nodded.

It's OK with me...I wonder how he gets them to grow. I can't even get basil to stick around. Some of that might have to do with the fact that she usually forgot to water it, but Ryan didn't need to know that. When Ibraiham told them to take their meals for free, she thanked him profusely, and then followed Ryan back towards the reflecting pond. As they settled in to eat, Ryan spoke once more.

I am really glad to be able to spend this evening with you... She blushed a little, and looked at her food for a moment before responding.

Likewise. So where did you learn Arabic? In the Marines?[/i] She took a bit, and couldn't help but close her eyes. It really WAS like heaven, and she was hungry. it was better than pizza and salad with Max and Blue. She looked out at the pond...very romantic, with the sunset, and all. She felt like she might be able to feel comfortable with Ryan, and that was nice. 

Tag:Ryan Alexander

[Ryan Alexander]

1937
Reflecting Pond
Friday/DC

I am sorry. I realized that I keep prattling on about Max. I promise not to any more, unless you ask specifically. I think it's fair that you know about ME, right? Ryan smiled. “I understand, really. I can only imagine what it must be like to raise a child. And that is perfectly fair.” Ryan Chuckled. “So tell me then, what sort of things do you like? Like Movies, TV shows, heck even sports?” Ryan asked. Smooth Ryan, real smooth. His inner self chastised him. Ryan felt like he had no idea what he was doing. He had never really ever been on any dates. Sure he had seen girls while he was in the Marines, but most of them didn’t want anything more than at one night stand. He just hopped that he was making a good impression. He felt good when Fee was around. Sure this was only their second time really spending any time together, but he couldn’t help but feel some sort of connection. He hoped that she felt the same.

Likewise. So where did you learn Arabic? In the Marines? Ryan blushed slightly. “Yes. I deployed to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. I wanted to at least be able to say Hello, Thank you, Where is the Bathroom, that sort of the thing,” he shrugged, “I try to make it a habit of learning a few words of the various countries that I have been too, or restaurants that I frequent. Whether they appreciate it or not, I don’t know. But it makes me feel like I am trying to be respectful.” Ryan said hoping he was making sense. He actually didn’t really know another language, he was learning Swedish, but he was far from being fluent. “I am trying to learn Swedish, it is where my Family came from, I still have family that live there, it really is a neat place, so much history!” He said with a shrug.

He took a bite from his Shawarma. Man can Ibrahim cook. He noticed an open bench, and gently guided her over to it, offering the seat to her first before sitting down. He glanced over to Fiona for a brief moment, wishing that he could get someone to take a picture of them. How had you gotten so lucky? She is SO out of your league pal. Ryan’s commented to himself. “What do you think of Ibrahim’s little concoction?” Ryan asked, not really knowing what to say. See? You are so weird! He thought to himself.

<Tag: @fionnamaccarfferty>