Amore Perros!

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1940
DC Reflecting Pond

Ryan didn't seem TOO upset that she'd been focusing on Max.

I understand, really. I can only imagine what it must be like to raise a child. And that is perfectly fair...So tell me then, what sort of things do you like? Like Movies, TV shows, heck even sports? She moved some of the chicken around on her plate, before taking a bite, and using the moment that passed to think about this. Sometimes she rattled off the list on PURPOSE, as a way to drive off a particularly heinous guy, or to impress someone. But Ryan seemed geninue, and she wanted to be geniune, too.

I like mostly science-fiction, and comic book based stuff. Romantic comedies, too, because I AM a girl. As far as sports, well...Rugby, of course, but I like the Scottish national team because Ireland sucks. And basketball. I played in college, even though I am short... but now I can't play it. And I like most music, except for rap music. I could never get into it...I listen to mostly classical, though. She sighed. The reason she couldn't play ball anymore was also the aftermath of her assault-the perp had beaten her up, as well, and the damage to her lower body had caused her a broken kneecap on the right side. She'd never been good enough to be professional or anything like that, but she did miss it sometimes. It would be cool to play again, show the males she worked with that she may be mini, but she was mighty.

He confirmed that he had learned Arabic in the Marines, and she nodded a little. His explanation made sense.

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...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....“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! She blinked. Swedish?! She did nod, though, and smiled more.

If more people tried just a little to do that, the world would be a better place, I believe. I speak four languages, myself. Well, six, if you count the different dialects of Celtic as different languages. But I speak Celtic, Irish Gaelic-which IS different, Russian, and Japanese. Blue taught me the Japanese. She hoped she didn't sound like she was bragging-but the Celtic was pretty obvious-Irish, Scottish, and Welsh dialects were all similar, Irish Gaelic for obvious reasons, the Russian she'd learnt because she took a course in Russian literature and spent two semesters wandering around campus, pretending she was a heroine from a Tolstoy novel. She wanted to travel there someday. She looked at him then.

Really, Sweden?! Have you been there?! Fee had traveled through some of Western Europe, but hadn't been to any of the islands besides Ireland and a few days in Scotland.

She finished her food, and then heard Ryan's voice. But she felt his hand on hers. She tensed for a moment, and then took a breath in, and let it out, before relaxing a little. It was JUST her hand, after all.

What do you think of Ibrahim’s little concoction? She smiled.

It's delicious. I mean, really. It's been awhile since I've had shawarma, but it's...I love the spice mixes. It tastes super fresh. When I was a girl, in Ireland, my aunts would take us kids into the City sometimes, if they needed to do a big shop. There was a Mediterranian takeaway place that I liked to go sit in. My cousins thought me strange, but the old man would give me free baklava and sweet tea with honey in it. I was used to America, where we're most mixed. My aunts finally caught me and forbid it. I have always thought about using my Bearau abilites to find him again, but I've forgotten his name. At this point, she was forcing herself to remember Ireland-it soothed her and distracted her from how close to Ryan she was sitting. So far, she still felt OK, but she didn't know if and when that would change.

Tag:Ryan Alexander. Sorry we got deep at the end.

[Ryan Alexander]

1940

DC Reflecting Pond

I like mostly science-fiction, and comic book based stuff. Romantic comedies, too, because I AM a girl. As far as sports, well...Rugby, of course, but I like the Scottish national team because Ireland sucks. And basketball. I played in college, even though I am short... but now I can't play it. And I like most music, except for rap music. I could never get into it...I listen to mostly classical, though. Ryan smiled. “I will admit, I know nothing of Rugby and I hate most Crap...er…Rap music. I listen to a lot instrumental music, though I enjoy anything with a good beat. But I had no idea that you played Basketball in college. It’s the only sport that I was kind of good at. I have really fast hands and feet, though my ball handling skills have never been very, shall we saw, there? Sorry to hear that you can’t play anymore, I am sure that you must have been fun to watch!” He smiled, a little embarrassed. “I love science fiction. I should show you my Star Wars novel collection sometime. It takes up an entire bookshelf in my apartment.” He laughed a little nervous. “I have a couple of book shelfs full of books. I can’t get rid of any book I read. Read anything good recently?” Ryan asked, realizing that he may just have tanked his chances with a future date. Really Ryan, Star Wars? Of all the freaking books you own, you lead with Star Wars? He commented to himself. He didn’t dare mention all the seasons of Wormhole Extreme that he owned. Baby Steps, pal. Baby Steps.

He looked watched the sun dip below the horizon, taking another bite out of his shawarma. Really, Sweden?! Have you been there?! Ryan nodded. “Yes. My family is originally from the Island of Gotland, just off the east coast of Sweden. Though now they live in South Sweden in a city called Jönköping. When my family emigrated here our last name was Allender, but my Great-Grandpa was really bad at writing to begin with, so Allender became Alexander.” Ryan said with a little shrug, making sure to pronounce the names correctly. “I spent a couple weeks there with my family after I got out of the Marines. I really like there, reminds me a lot of the North West where I am from.” He shrugged. “I have only been to Ireland as part of the Corps, so I didn’t get to experience it much, what is or was your favorite thing about it?” He asked, hoping that it was the right question. She seemed comfortable talking about her homeland. 

It's delicious. I mean, really. It's been awhile since I've had shawarma, but it's...I love the spice mixes. It tastes super fresh. When I was a girl, in Ireland, my aunts would take us kids into the City sometimes, if they needed to do a big shop. There was a Mediterranian takeaway place that I liked to go sit in. My cousins thought me strange, but the old man would give me free baklava and sweet tea with honey in it. I was used to America, where we're most mixed. My aunts finally caught me and forbid it. I have always thought about using my Bearau abilites to find him again, but I've forgotten his name. Ryan nodded, listening intently. He was glad that she let him hold her hand, causing him to smile. “Does he still have that shop there? Next time you visit I am sure you could ask?” Ryan suggested, though felt dumb, he was sure that she would have already thought of that. She is a genius after all, stupid Jarhead. He thought to himself.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1943
DC Reflecting Pond

Fee stared out at the water. She was still a little shaken up; she didn't know how to react now. She hadn't pulled away, so she let herself feel his hand on hers. It was what Dr. Harrison called "baby steps." She could report back that he had touched her and it didn't repulse her or cause her fear. Strange. She tuned back in.

I will admit, I know nothing of Rugby and I hate most Crap...er…Rap music. I listen to a lot instrumental music, though I enjoy anything with a good beat. But I had no idea that you played Basketball in college. It’s the only sport that I was kind of good at. I have really fast hands and feet, though my ball handling skills have never been very, shall we saw, there? Sorry to hear that you can’t play anymore, I am sure that you must have been fun to watch! She raised an eyebrow.

I don't know about THAT. I will teach you about rugby. It's very much like a hybrid of soccer and football. At my father's house, for holidays, he and I will sit and watch; usually Scotland plays Arsenal-that's a British team-and we have drinking games and the kids roll out blankets and things. Drives my stepmother crazy...she doesn't understand it either...But it's one thing we both love. She spoke lighter, happier-she loved her father very much and they were very close. She didn't do much without his permission or input-even now, as an adult.

I love science fiction. I should show you my Star Wars novel collection sometime. It takes up an entire bookshelf in my apartment. have a couple of book shelfs full of books. I can’t get rid of any book I read. Read anything good recently? She nodded. She hadn't let go of Ryan's hand, and he hadn't let go of hers, either. She moved over a bit, so she look him in the face. There was a garbage bin nearby, and she stood to discard her plate and things there. She returned, and settled back in next to him.

Yes. I just finished reading The Maze Runner books to Max. I liked them myself, but they were a little juvenile....you know, the last time a guy wanted to "show me something" in his apartment, I discovered that he wasn't really an artist... She smiled a little. She was kidding, really. Actually, the last time she'd been in a guy's apartment, it was Liam's. But I know what you mean about discarding books; I am a horder of books, as well. We have PILES, you just didn't see them because Blue hates it, so they're piled in the garage. She made a face. Her roommate was strange.

Yes. My family is originally from the Island of Gotland, just off the east coast of Sweden. Though now they live in South Sweden in a city called Jönköping. When my family emigrated here our last name was Allender, but my Great-Grandpa was really bad at writing to begin with, so Allender became Alexander. I spent a couple weeks there with my family after I got out of the Marines. I really like there, reminds me a lot of the North West where I am from. I have only been to Ireland as part of the Corps, so I didn’t get to experience it much, what is or was your favorite thing about it? She enjoyed hearing about his background. She hadn't expected it, but that was why America was great-so many different people.

It sounds lovely. Our family came late enough we didn't need to change our name, but most of our neighbors did. Where else did you travel with the Marines?...I mean, you've been to the middle east, but there's an American base in Scotland, and a few in Germany....and let see. My MOST favorite part about Ireland was the sheep. They were my friends. My family that still lives there-my aunts I mentioned, my dad's sisters-we own goats. We make milk and cheese, things like that, and sell it to large markets. I used to like to play with them-my aunts would have a cow, but I didn't care-and then I could sleep in the hay. I was a tomboy as a kid, and I preferred to be outside all day, running around. I went to an all-girls Catholic school, though, and I had to wear a skirt, except on Friday's, when we could wear tailored pants. I LIVED for Fridays-do you know what it is like to do sports in a skirt?! Bloody pain in the ass is what. She hadn't noticed she slipped slightly further into her Irish accent and collolquialisms as she spoke of it. Where are you from, originally?! I find it weird that no one is actually FROM DC, you know? She shook her head. Even on her own team at work, not a single one had been born in DC.

Ryan then suggested that she ask about her old friends' shop.

Does he still have that shop there? Next time you visit I am sure you could ask? She shook her head sadly.

It isn't. I was told that he got ill, and his children didn't want to run it. The actual shop is still there, abanonded. That whole part of Dublin is run-down now, and rife with crime. We call it the Projects here, or something like it, anyway. She was a little saddend by that. But what could she do?! She didn't know. She noticed it was getting a little later, and wondered what else-if anything-Ryan had planned.

Tag:Ryan Alexander

[Ryan Alexander]

1950
DC Reflecting Pond

Yes. I just finished reading The Maze Runner books to Max. I liked them myself, but they were a little juvenile....you know, the last time a guy wanted to "show me something" in his apartment, I discovered that he wasn't really an artist.. Ryan laughed. “I don't think that I have read that. Though, I promise, I have lots of books, and other nerd things.” He was a bit embarrassed to admit. He also had an assortment of NASA memorabilia and Sci-fi models from assorted shows, though had hadn’t told Fee. I guess I will have to have something to surprise her if she ever stops by. He thought to himself.

It sounds lovely. Our family came late enough we didn't need to change our name, but most of our neighbors did. Where else did you travel with the Marines? He smiled while she finished answering his question. “Well let’s see.” He said as he leaned back, looking up into the darkening sky, while still holding her hand. “I got spend a little time in the Philippines and Guam, oh and Malaysia. I spent Christmas in Singapore, man do they know how to party!” Ryan smiled at the memory. He and his friends had managed to get off the ship for the evening, and they were able to join the festivities in downtown Singapore. “I also spent time in Kuwait, you know of Bahrain and Saudi, Oman and Jordan. In Jordan I got to see Petra, you know, the place where Indiana Jones found the Holy Grail in the Last Crusade? That was really cool. I think I have some pictures on my phone if you want to see them.” Ryan offered. “I also, got to go to DJ…er Djibouti, and then I spent a couple of days in Ireland, and flew back to the states.” He said making sure he named them all. “I have been around the circumference of the earth.” HE said with a chuckle. “Besides Ireland, where else have you been? Which was your favorite and why?” He liked hearing he talk, especially when her Irish accent started to take the forefront.

It isn't. I was told that he got ill, and his children didn't want to run it. The actual shop is still there, abandoned. That whole part of Dublin is run-down now, and rife with crime. We call it the Projects here, or something like it, anyway. Ryan nodded. “I am sure there is a way to find out.” He said trying to be supportive. He smiled though was nearly startled when his watch beeped. He had been feel so comfortable around Fee that he had let his guard slip. “Well, my lady, if you would follow me, I have something I would very much like to show you. There is a neat little event down by the FDR memorial.” He stopped as he realized how shady that sounded and chuckled. “I promise it is not as nefarious as it sounds. They send up Chinese Lanterns at night, around 2015, so we have some time. You decorate them, and write little messages on it. I thought it would be fun.” Ryan said hoping that it didn’t sound to corny.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

1953
DC Reflecting Pond

Fiona was enjoying herself. Not just the chatter, but the company. She found that she and Ryan were compatible in many things, but maybe just different enough that it wouldn't be boring. She hoped so. She was liking Ryan, and would consider a second date if he asked her.

I don't think that I have read that. Though, I promise, I have lots of books, and other nerd things. He didn't have superhero costume pieces lying around, she bet. She HOPED...she shook her head at herself; MAX wore the costumes, and it would be creepy if Ryan did. Oh, hell, good thing she didn't speak alound. She managed to speak, though, through her horror at herself.

Well. Maybe someday I can see your nerd things. She hoped that didn't sound like some kind of awkward innunedo. It wasn't. It was her bumbling idiot way of accepting his offer to show her these things. She needed a nap...or something. Something to get her brain back on track.

Well let’s see...I got spend a little time in the Philippines and Guam, oh and Malaysia. I spent Christmas in Singapore, man do they know how to party! I also spent time in Kuwait, you know of Bahrain and Saudi, Oman and Jordan. In Jordan I got to see Petra, you know, the place where Indiana Jones found the Holy Grail in the Last Crusade? That was really cool. I think I have some pictures on my phone if you want to see them...I also, got to go to DJ…er Djibouti, and then I spent a couple of days in Ireland, and flew back to the states. Fee raised an eyebrow. Indiana Jones?! She wasn't familiar with that series-oh, sure, she'd heard of it, but it seemed to...testosterone-y to her. She said this to Ryan.

I must admit that I have never seen the Indiana Jones movies... Liam had tried to get her to watch them at Christmas when she and Max had gone to Boston, but she'd refused, opting to watch the holiday movies with Max and her nieces and nephews. She didn't know if this were weird or not, but she simply had found the story plot, as it was told on the back of the movie cover, that exciting. But I would like to see the photos, anyway, and my brother will be SOO jealous. Wait...if she could hit herself, she would, but she couldn't UNSAY it. She also couldn't backtrack-she was never good at lying, so she just left it to hang there, awkwardly. She was glad when he asked a question.

I have been around the circumference of the earth....Besides Ireland, where else have you been? Which was your favorite and why? She blinked once. She grew up very poor, she hadn't been ANYWHERE except Dublin, it's outlying areas, Boston, South Boston and once, she went to Cinncinnatti, where her stepmother's family was from...though her job had allowed her to see a BIT more...she still hadn't traveled anywhere "great."

Well, all the UK, obviously, but I grew up poor. I've only been to Ireland, Scotland, and England. I haven't even been to Wales, not that I want to. Then, of course, the Boston area, and once I went to Cinncinnatti, where my stepmother's family lives. I haven't been able to travel with the FBI because of Max. She paused. The Bareau didn't send out mothers on assignment if they could help it. Plus, she was a TA, she wasn't really NEEDED out there. Of all of those places, though, I still say that there is something about Boston that can't be beat. The weather is lovely in the summer, it has SEASONS. She sounded kind of lame all of a sudden. But she had life experinces that counted for more than that, right?!

He went on to encourage her to try to find the old Bakshis who owned the Cash n' Curry. Maybe she SHOULD use the FBI computers to see what she could find. She would lie, and say that he was wanted for money laundering if someone asked. That could work, right?!! He seemed distracted, and she heard a beep.

I am sure there is a way to find out....Well, my lady, if you would follow me, I have something I would very much like to show you. There is a neat little event down by the FDR memorial....I promise it is not as nefarious as it sounds. They send up Chinese Lanterns at night, around 2015, so we have some time. You decorate them, and write little messages on it. I thought it would be fun. She laughed aloud. It DID sound kind of shifty, actually, but she was glad it was not. And had he really called "my lady?" She kind of liked that.

You're right, that does sound neat, now that you've explained it properly. I would love to. This time, she took HIS hand-she felt a little more comfortable if SHE made the first move, as it could happen on her terms. She was doing much better with social interaction these days, but intimacy still scared her. She let him lead her away, towards the heart of the DC touristy area, close to where they were, actually. The night was still young-ish, and she was having a nice time, and the weather was beautiful. Nothing could rain on her parade now.

Tag:Ryan Alexander.

[Ryan Alexander]

2000
Reflecting Pool -> FDR Memorial

I must admit that I have never seen the Indiana Jones movies... But I would like to see the photos, anyway, and my brother will be SOO jealous. Ryan chuckled and smiled. He guessed it made sense, Indiana Jones was pretty action packed. “I would say I am shocked that you have missed watching an American Classic, but I guess it makes sense, it isn’t for everyone. My favorite on is the Last Crusade but that is also because it has Sean Connary in it.” He chuckled as he pulled out his phone and to bring up the photo album. “Maybe, one evening we could take a crack and watching it? Contrary to popular belief some men can cook, I can make a mean Smörgåsbord!” He offered, hoping that he wasn’t being too forward. He handed her the phone with him, having a big grin in front of the steps of Petra. As she would scroll through the photo’s she would see other parts of the Valley that Petra was located in, with recessed building built into the canyon walls. She would even see a photo’s of Ryan wearing what looked like a Shemagh and riding a Camel through the desert. She would also see photo’s of Ryan zip lining through trees or wearing his Desert Camouflage Utilities, looking like Rambo, standing next to an Omani General who was similarly garbed. 

Ryan listened as she talked about her travelling. He nodded listening intently. ...Of all of those places, though, I still say that there is something about Boston that can't be beat. The weather is lovely in the summer, it has SEASONS. Ryan chuckled. “ know what you mean about seasons! Being Stationed in San Diego we had two seasons, Summer, and not Summer! I never knew how much I could MISS seasons!” He laughed just remembering how much he had missed the rain, a real rain, when he was in San Diego.

You're right, that does sound neat, now that you've explained it properly. I would love to. Ryan blushed as she grabbed hold of his hand this time. He nodded and gently guided her towards the FDR memorial. He had never done the Chinese lanterns before, but he heard of the idea from one of his friends at work, that it was something fun. He smiled as they neared seeing a group of people setting up the lanterns. N elderly Chinese couple approached them. “Wǎnshang hǎo. Good Evening. Are you here to participate in our the Lantern Ceremony?” The elderly women asked. “Yes we are.” Ryan replied looking over to Fee. “My, what a cute couple! Very good, come follow me.” Ryan blushed slightly as the women led them to small table set up with an assortment of colored paper lanterns and an equal assortment of coloring devices. “Here, you decorate your lantern. And write a message too.” The elderly women explained, she further explained the history and symbolism behind it, about how writing messages on to your loved ones it will bring you good luck and hope for your relationship. The elderly women bowed gracefully, and moved to another group that arrived. Ryan smiled at Fee as he picked a lantern and started decorating it. Ryan had never been an artist, but he did decorate it the best he could. He even scribbled down a tiny note wishing Fee and him a lasting relationship. “So, what are you drawing on yours?” Ryan asked, curious to see what Fee was decorating it with.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

Smörgåsbord: Assorted Swedish dishes, essentially a Swedish Buffet
Shemagh: A head wrap typically worn in the middle east.
Wǎnshang hǎo: Chinese for good evening.

[Fiona Maccafferty]

2000
Reflecting pond-->Lincoln Memorial
DC

Fee listened intently to Ryan. She might have grown bored of any other rapid conversation with a man, but she found Ryan interesting, and of course, he was easy on the eyes.

I would say I am shocked that you have missed watching an American Classic, but I guess it makes sense, it isn’t for everyone. My favorite on is the Last Crusade but that is also because it has Sean Connary in it. So she was meant to like it because it had the ONE famous Irish person in it?! Well, him and Pierce Brosnan, who was more Fee's speed. She let him continue. Maybe, one evening we could take a crack and watching it? Contrary to popular belief some men can cook, I can make a mean Smörgåsbord! She smiled, and nodded. She supposed that was his invitation for a second date, and she felt a little surprised that she had made such an impression. But glad! She took his phone as he pulled up the photos, and she skimmed through them. It seemed that they had both lived a lot of life...

How long were you in the Marines?! It seems like awhile, if you have this many pictures. I like the one of you on the Camel. You look happy in some of these-that's strange; you're in a war zone. Explain it to me...all I get is what we're fed on the news media. The FBI is, of course, a little immune to the DOD and even the DOJ offensives...especially me. She hoped that it wasn't going to put too big of a damper on things-sometimes people didn't like to talk about thier pasts, of this she knew well.

They headed off for the lantern do, and as they walked, they talked more.

know what you mean about seasons! Being Stationed in San Diego we had two seasons, Summer, and not Summer! I never knew how much I could MISS seasons she nodded a little.

Ireland is like that, but opposite. It's mostly winter, and then rain. There's not much of a summer to speak of, but now that there's global warming, that may have changed. She shrugged. She just didn't know; she'd only been back twice and it was Christmas both times. A small part of her wished that she could be there with Ryan now-if for no other reason than to show him off.

They arrived at the Memorial, and were greeted by an older Asian couple.

Wǎnshang hǎo. Good Evening. Are you here to participate in our the Lantern Ceremony?...My, what a cute couple! Very good, come follow me.[/b] Ryan nodded in the affirmative, and Fee looked around. It looked so fun; she might have to bring Max sometime on a non-school night. They were shown to a table with paper lanterns, and coloring/art supplies of multiple colors and types.

They got to work, and Fee wasn't much of an artist, but she drew a scene...her conversation with Ryan had drug up memories-some good and some bad-but she drew herself and her father, and balloons. Fee didn't know what it MEANT, but it was just a memory. Then she wrote a wish-"I am finally ready to try love again. She heard Ryan speak.

So, what are you drawing on yours? She smiled.

Once, not long after my mom left-my dad took me to a park somewhere. I am pretty sure it was just a local park, but I can't remember clearly. It reminds me of THIS, She moved her hands to indicate the park around them. And it was...well. It was happy. I don't remember many happy days in my childhood, but that one was. She paused for a moment-after her mother had abandonded them, it had been just the two of them, and it had been difficult. What did you put on yours? She hid the little message below her arm-it was her private wish, but she MIGHT share it with him...someday.

Tag:Ryan Alexander.

[Ryan Alexander]

2005
Reflecting pond-->FDR Memorial
DC

How long were you in the Marines?! It seems like awhile, if you have this many pictures. I like the one of you on the Camel. You look happy in some of these-that's strange; you're in a war zone. Explain it to me...all I get is what we're fed on the news media. The FBI is, of course, a little immune to the DOD and even the DOJ offensives...especially me.

“I was in the Marines for 5 years. As soon as I made it to the Fleet, that’s what we call it when you are no longer “in-training” I was almost immediately deployed. I was a “hot fill,” meaning I skipped 90 percent of the work-up cycle because the guy I replaced almost committed suicide.” Ryan said, pausing for a moment. Leonard had been a good friend of his, they had gone through the school house together and graduated around the same time, though he had trouble with being wrong and would have anxiety attacks. He had gotten so nervous during the work up cycle that he had tried to jump off deck of the ship. Luckily, he had received the help he needed and had graduated college with a BA in International Studies and got a job with the State Department as a Russian Interpreter. “I was fortunate that I never had to worry being in any real danger. I was on a ship most of the time, and the few times I did go ashore, I set up my little weather system, did some forecasts, and ate some exotic things. The one thing I do remember was how, happy the other countries soldiers were that we were there training them. They really wanted to be better so they could protect there homes.” He said thoughtfully. “When I got back from deployment I became an SSO, and that seg-wayed into where I am today!” He finished with a smile. “You may be immune to the nuances of the DoD, I am sure that you have some interesting stories about the FBI?” Ryan asked hoping to hear some interesting stories, though hoping that he wasn’t getting to close to the work topic.

Once, not long after my mom left-my dad took me to a park somewhere. I am pretty sure it was just a local park, but I can't remember clearly. It reminds me of THIS…What did you put on yours? Ryan blushed lightly as he looked over hers. Her drawing was rather good even if it was hastily put together. Ryan looked back at his. It was a rather Crude drawing of a Rocket, with NASA penciled on the side. “I have never been very artistic, though if you had meet my Mom when I was younger you would have thought I was the next Van Gogh. I have always wanted to see a rocket launch, in person, at Cape Canaveral. Someday I hope to be able to witness it in person.” He said, hiding the little message and the three stick figures that he had drawn representing him, Fee, and Max, from her view. “Yours looks really nice, I am sure it was a good memory.” He said with an encouraging smile.

Ryan glanced, noticing that they still a few minutes before the elderly couple started corralling every one for them to start lighting the lanterns. “Do you have any other happy memories from your childhood?” He asked, trying not to pry too much. He was interested in her and her life. And while she seemed to leave out certain pieces of information, he was slowly painting the picture that was Fiona Maccafferty.

<Tag: Fiona Maccafferty>

[Fiona Maccafferty]

2007
FDR Memorial
DC

Fee listened as she doodled, and Ryan told her about his time in the Marines.

I was in the Marines for 5 years. As soon as I made it to the Fleet, that’s what we call it when you are no longer “in-training” I was almost immediately deployed. I was a “hot fill,” meaning I skipped 90 percent of the work-up cycle because the guy I replaced almost committed suicide.I was fortunate that I never had to worry being in any real danger. I was on a ship most of the time, and the few times I did go ashore, I set up my little weather system, did some forecasts, and ate some exotic things. The one thing I do remember was how, happy the other countries soldiers were that we were there training them. They really wanted to be better so they could protect there homes. She nodded.

I am sorry about your friend. And I am glad you're safe. I understand what you mean-I have a cousin who joined the Irish Defense Forces. Simon. He went to South Africa and India for some kind of skirmish. He trained the Afghanis to fight, as well. Which is kind of funny, as the Brits were the ones to conquer them to begin with. She sighed. He'd been killed in combat, and her Aunt hadn't ever been the same, obviously.

You may be immune to the nuances of the DoD, I am sure that you have some interesting stories about the FBI?” She shrugged. Not INTERESTING, exactly.

Well....yes. I suppose it depends on what you consider "interesting," but I have seen some things. Happy, sad...death, and life. Mostly death. Do you remember the FBI team that talked the guy off the side of the Queensboro bridge in New York City? That was my team. It had been all over the news, but only because the suspect was escaping the law-AND the son of a promeninent New York senator. There were many stories she had, and she could tell him all of it-but not tonight, simply because there wasn't time.

She noticed that the others were finishing, and getting ready to light the lanterns. She was excited to see this; she bet it was going to be gorgeous and romantic.

I have never been very artistic, though if you had meet my Mom when I was younger you would have thought I was the next Van Gogh. I have always wanted to see a rocket launch, in person, at Cape Canaveral. Someday I hope to be able to witness it in person...Yours looks really nice, I am sure it was a good memory. Fee just looked a little sadly at him.

Mothers are MEANT so say that about their children. To a mum, her son-or daughter-is the best thing in the world. Well, except for her OWN mother, but she and Ryan could have that conversation later. Do you have any other happy memories from your childhood? She nodded.

Yes...what would you like to know...let's see..oh, yes. When I first start school in Ireland, I went to an all-girls Catholic school. I was really smart, and it was hard because they were a little behind American schools at the time. Anyway. I used to get in a LOT of trouble because I couldn't sit still. BUT...to everyone's surprise, I won an award for a poem I wrote, and I got to go to the capitol, and I had tea with the Taoseich-the Prime Minister-and his wife. I got extra pastries, and a medal. I still have it...somewhere. At my dad's, I am sure. She smiled. That was a good day. Then when my dad got remarried and I met Sydney-my stepmother-for the first time.... All of those sounded a little lame, but it was hard to impress that any day when you could have noodles or rice with your cabbage and potatoes meant that you were doing OK, and THAT was a good day. There were others, early on, but she didn't share those, because they made her miss her mother.

FInally, it was time to get the lanterns lit and released. She let Ryan lead her to the clearing, and smiled. She wondered if they'd be this awkward forever.

Tag:Ryan Alexander

[Ryan Alexander]

2015
FDR Memorial
DC

Well....yes. I suppose it depends on what you consider "interesting," but I have seen some things. Happy, sad...death, and life. Mostly death. Do you remember the FBI team that talked the guy off the side of the Queensboro bridge in New York City? That was my team.

Ryan nodded. He hadn’t of been trying to bring up any painful memories about work. He knew how difficult some of those sights could be. He had been hoping for something funny, like catching a bad guy with trailer full of stuffed animals when it should have been chemicals or something. Or how it was casual Friday and someone miss understood and came in in pajamas. “Maybe they are really are that up tight at the FBI.” Ryan thought to himself as he listened to Fee.

Yes...what would you like to know...let's see..oh, yes. When I first start school in Ireland, I went to an all-girls Catholic school. I was really smart, and it was hard because they were a little behind American schools at the time. Anyway. I used to get in a LOT of trouble because I couldn't sit still. BUT...to everyone's surprise, I won an award for a poem I wrote, and I got to go to the capitol, and I had tea with the Taoseich-the Prime Minister-and his wife. I got extra pastries, and a medal. I still have it...somewhere. At my dad's, I am sure…Then when my dad got remarried and I met Sydney-my stepmother-for the first time....

Ryan looked up from the lantern that he was working on. “Wait. You wrote poetry? And got a medal for it?” Ryan asked with a smile. “I had no idea! That must have been quite the experience for little Fiona!” Ryan said trying not to sound like he was making fun of Fee. He was genuinely interested. “Your poem must have been pretty good, do you remember a line from it? Do you still write any in your down time?” HE asked trying not to pry. He didn’t really read any poetry to all, usually he read Sci-fi books when he wasn’t reading up on cases or new ICD’s. He smiled trying to be encouraging.

“Alright everyone, please gather round. It is time to let go of the Lanterns!” The elder couple announced to the dozens of people. Ryan looked over to Fee as they gathered there lanterns. A big grin spreading on his face, one filled with excitement. Together they all moved closer to the elderly couple as they passed out the little candles they would light to send their little paper lanterns up into the air. The couple showed everyone how to light them and started to count down as they all passed around lighters. By the time the count got to 2 every candle was lite. On Zero, dozens of decorated colored lanterns lazily lifted into the air, some more decorated than others. Ryan scooted close to Fee, wanting desperately to put his arm around her as he watched there lantern’s float away.

Tag: Fiona Maccafferty

[Fiona Maccafferty]

2015
FDR Memorial
DC

Fee didn't want the night to end, really. She was surprised she was having a good time, and even more surprised at her reaction to Ryan. They were compatible, he was NICE, and they could laugh. It was kind of perfect, actually.

Wait. You wrote poetry? And got a medal for it?...I had no idea! That must have been quite the experience for little Fiona!...Your poem must have been pretty good, do you remember a line from it? Do you still write any in your down time?” She looked at him; not sure if he were serious. Did he really just call her "little" Fiona?! She took it to mean "younger" Fiona, or at least he'd BETTER! She nodded, though.

Yes. I remember the whole thing. It started out "No. Don’t take away my paintbrush...." I was a kid with some issues...I might show you one day, if you want to see it. I do write still, some. But mostly I just write emails for work, sadly. She shook her head. SHe didn't have TIME to write anymore.

Finally, it was time for them to go release the lanterns, and as they did-Ryan had to help her get enough height to catch the wind-she felt him move closer. She took his hand in his, though, and smiled.

This is beautiful...do you want to get some coffee?! WE can talk some more... She might tell him some of her life.

Tag:Ryan Alexander.

click for a poem; I know it's more mature than something an 8 year old would've written, but it IS Fee! And you had me on toes.

[Ryan Alexander]

2020
FDR Memorial
DC

No. Don’t take away my paintbrush...." I was a kid with some issues...I might show you one day, if you want to see it. I do write still, some. But mostly I just write emails for work, sadly. “I would love to hear more of it and see it! I am no poet but I am sure that it was very important to you. And I know what you mean about work. I used to write short stories, especially when I deployed. I have a collection of them somewhere.” He said encouragingly, hoping that he wasn’t sounding hockey or anything. He really wanted to hear more, though only because she was the one who wrote it. Ryan smiled as she took his hand. This was turning out to be quite the evening.

This is beautiful...do you want to get some coffee?! WE can talk some more... Ryan nodded. “You bet me to my question!” He said with a laugh. “I don’t know if you like dessert but there is a place just down the road that serves a wicked homemade Tiramisu, there coffee is really top-notch as well.” He suggested with a shrug and smile, watching the lanterns lift higher and higher before catching fire and disappear into nothingness.

He gently escorted her away from the FDR Memorial. The place that Ryan had in mind was only a block and half away. Ryan chuckled to himself glad that everything was so close. “Fiona, I know this may sound a little random, but what is your favorite thing to eat for dessert?” He asked, he specifically chose the pastry shop as it had a vast assortment of delicious pastries.

Same time
A Van
“Do you have eyes on the target?” “Yes, he and the women are walking up the street, it looks like they are going into a little shop.” “Ready to go when you are.” “Hold, let us see if a better opportunity presents its self.”


Tag: Fiona Maccafferty

[Fiona Maccafferty]

2020
FDR Memorial
DC

Fiona smiled. She and Ryan were proving to be very compatible, and that was great.

I would love to hear more of it and see it! I am no poet but I am sure that it was very important to you. And I know what you mean about work. I used to write short stories, especially when I deployed. I have a collection of them somewhere. She smiled now.

And *I* would very much like to see your stories. What did you write about? She asked. They were standing close, and she fought an urge to place her head on his chest. There would be time for that later, and she didn't want to lead him on.

He readily agreed to coffee, and said that he was going to ask her!

You bet me to my question!...I don’t know if you like dessert but there is a place just down the road that serves a wicked homemade Tiramisu, there coffee is really top-notch as well. She nodded, and finished watching the lanterns, and then followed Ryan to the entrance, and then down the street. He asked her another question.

“Fiona, I know this may sound a little random, but what is your favorite thing to eat for dessert? She looked up at him. She didn't usually didn't eat sweet things, but she did rather fancy them, she supposed.

Hmm, I've never thought about it. When I was a kid, it was all chocolate. Now, I suppose...lemon cream pie. She coud feel her mouth water at the thought. She could have a sweet guy, a sweet dessert, and a sweet night.

Tag:Ryan Alexander.

[Ryan Alexander]

2025
FDR Memorial-> Mama Megans
DC

And *I* would very much like to see your stories. What did you write about? Ryan blushed, nearly cursing himself for mention it. Though she had shared something personal, he had to do like wise. “Well, I am a little embarrassed. But it is a series of short stories about a Space Marine, names Corporal Johnson. I wrote about a half dozen or so stories about missions that Corporal Johnson went on.” Ryan said a little embarrassed. How very cliché Ryan, writing a story about a Space Marine. Good one. He thought to himself. “If you really want to read them, I am sure I might be persuaded to dig them up.” He said with a chuckle.

Hmm, I've never thought about it. When I was a kid, it was all chocolate. Now, I suppose...lemon cream pie. Ryan nodded, listening. “I do enjoy a good a Lemon Pie. I have to be careful, though.” He said with a smile. “I have a wicked sweet tooth. Sometimes if I get started, I don’t want to stop!” He said with a laugh, remembering the last time he had been to all you can eat buffet. It had had been at a Casino not too far from DC on some business trip, and that had had an all you can eat Dessert bar. Ryan had eaten so many cakes and pies that he had passed out at the table. It was still a story they told around the office.

They arrived at the Pastry shop that Ryan had suggested. It wasn’t too busy at this hour, which Ryan was thankful for. He held the door open for Fee, giving a playful bow as she entered. He smiled, he couldn’t help but smile with her around. He was certain that his cheeks would be numb tomorrow for how much she made him grin.

“Hello and good evening! Welcome to Mama Megan’s pastry shop! I am Mama Megan, please call me Mama Megan, everyone does! Come in, come in.” A rather cheerful older women with a very heavy Italian accent said from behind the counter. She gestured at the pastries arrayed around the counter. She had everything that heart could imagine, from mouse cakes, to cupcakes, to cookies, to pies, even Fee favorite, Lemon Cream Pie. Many were mostly gone, as the day crowd had arrived and assaulted the delicious treats before Fee and Ryan had arrived. “My, aren’t you two such a CUTE couple! What can I get you? Coffee? Maybe a delicious pastry?” She gently encouraged. “All are homemade with as fresh ingredients as I can get!” She said happily. “So, what will you have?” She asked again.

Ryan would let Fee order first. “Well Mama Megan, I would very much like a cup of coffee and a piece of your Tiramisu. It’s my favorite.” He said with a grin as he handed the women his credit card. “Of course! I will get you your things right away.” She handed Ryan a numbered placard. “Please have a set anywhere, I will bring it to your table.” She said as she disappeared behind the counter.

Ryan gently lead Fee to a table that was next to a window. “I know that Max is a big part of your life, but do you have any hobbies or things that are just for you?” He asked. He hopped that he wasn’t sounding heartless. He had actually wanted to know about Max as well, but didn’t want to sound too creepy.

Same time
2 Blocks from Mama Megans

"I see them sitting in the shop." "How many people?" "About a half dozen or so." "Alright we will hold. Its getting later anyways, DC is nigh empty this late."

Tag: Fiona Maccafferty

[Fiona Maccafferty]

2028
FDR Memorial-> Mama Megans
DC

He seemed strangely embarassed that he wrote stories.

Well, I am a little embarrassed. But it is a series of short stories about a Space Marine, names Corporal Johnson. I wrote about a half dozen or so stories about missions that Corporal Johnson went on...If you really want to read them, I am sure I might be persuaded to dig them up. A...space marine?! She smiled.

That sounds adorable. Is he like you? The Space Marine, I mean. She could picture Ryan as a Marine, wearing an Astronaut's helmet and fliritng with alien girls. Maybe there'd be a redhead alien girl...

They found themselves in a still-busy, old-fashioned-style patisserie.

I do enjoy a good a Lemon Pie. I have to be careful, though.I have a wicked sweet tooth. Sometimes if I get started, I don’t want to stop! She laughed. Ryan let her in, bowing as he did. She shook her head.

I will keep that mind. I am PRETTY sure you can't eat more than Max, though. She sighed. She had PROMISED she wouldn't mention him. Oh, well. The woman behind the till spoke to them.

Hello and good evening! Welcome to Mama Megan’s pastry shop! I am Mama Megan, please call me Mama Megan, everyone does! Come in, come in....My, aren’t you two such a CUTE couple! What can I get you? Coffee? Maybe a delicious pastry?...All are homemade with as fresh ingredients as I can get! So, what will you have? Fee smiled.

I will have the lemon pie, and a small coffe, please. She waited for Ryan to place his order, and then moved with him towards to a table. He spoke to her then.

I know that Max is a big part of your life, but do you have any hobbies or things that are just for you? Fee shrugged. She DID, actually...just one.

Well, besides shopping, which I guess is sort of Max, too...I play pickup sports at the Bureau three mornings a week. It was mostly hand football, but occassionally one of the Macmanus Twins would bring a soccer ball or she would bring her basketball. They thought it was HILARIOUS-a small woman, playing ball sports!

Tag:tinytwo.