The Undergrounders - R

[athena]

The smell of death and earth assaulted Alex’s nose as the hitman closed the distance between them. His proximity forced her to look up at him, and Alex recognized his tactic as no more than a power play. Something to make her feel small, insignificant, powerless, and completely under his control. Alex had seen enough of the tactic to know what he was trying to do. She knew enough to make sure her face took on the proper amount of fear, a dash of awe, and most importantly the recognition that she was under his care, if it could even be called that.

"I'm going to take you with me. I'm not going to be easy on you."

His voice was threatening, and Alex only offered a small nod. Cliff began to preen himself, laughing at her stupidity and priding himself on his experience. In that instant, Alexandria found she disliked the man. Arrogance had no room in the world of crime; it had brought about many a criminal’s end, and, ultimately, it would lead to Cliff’s downfall as well. In the meantime, she would continue her charade. After all, one can hate a tool but that doesn’t make it any less valuable. Alex listened silently as he issued short, barking orders. When he turned around to place his call, Alex sneered and gestured rudely. Childish perhaps, but it made her feel better. When he whipped around Alex slid the velvety box into her hands.

“I will need a few minutes to take care of the video feeds.” Cliff stared hard at her, but only motioned for her to get a move on. She trotted off into the surveillance room. Deftly, she pulled up the video feeds and trained a camera on Cliff. The last thing she needed was for him to burst into the room and blow her brains out for taking her sweet time. Or sending the feed to somebody. That seemed a pretty surefire way to end up murdered. Only if he catches me, Alex thought with a smirk. And in all honesty, that wasn’t going to happen. She would make sure to cover her tracks, just like Toby the tech expert had showed her.

Immediately she began the feed transfer to a secure line. Toby would no doubt get the feed as it came through; he often checked the Bellavere feeds to make sure Alex wasn’t caught doing anything illegal. Of course she never was on the feeds, but better to be safe than sorry. The feed download began. Out of the corner of her eye, Alexandria caught sight of a black van screech to a halt at the back door. That was no doubt the body disposal team Cliff had mentioned. That was just something else to be doctored out of the footage. Unfortunately, Alex didn’t have the skills or time to completely alter footage. Instead she deleted the images of Cliff bursting into the shop and killing What’s-her-face. Alex replaced them with older footage of the deceased woman standing behind the counter filing her nails. When Toby got the streams he would come in and truly doctor the footage while keeping the real incidents hidden. At least until the boss could find a use for them.

That done, Alex hurried into the small staff lounge. She dragged her emergency duffle bag out from under the chair and unzipped it. With skill, she stripped out of her dress and heels and stuffed them into the bag. She slid into a pair of well-worn jeans and a t-shirt. Alex tied the laces on her boots just as Cliff burst through the door. He looked at the bag suspiciously. “I was supposed to go to my boyfriend’s place tonight,” Alex said meekly, as if that was any sort of explanation.

“Did I fucking ask?” He growled. “What about the cameras?” Cliff reiterated his question with a wave of his weapon. “I removed the footage. It will look as if nothing happened. Nothing to be suspicious of, and certainly no cops called. At least until we don’t show up for work.” Cliff grunted, and Alex took that to mean it was some sort of approval. Or perhaps he was saying it wasn’t his damned problem. Either way, the issue was resolved.

He roughly grabbed her wrist and dragged her from the small staff room. She barely had a chance to collect her duffle bag, the jewelry box, and a few extra jewels for padding. He pulled her down the street, and Alex was forced to trot to keep up with him. Cliff didn’t seem to care that he was drawing unwanted attention. She knew it would be pointless to wretch her wrist free, or whimper, or say anything about the situation. She remained silent for a few more paces before finally speaking up.

“You may be experienced in your...profession,” she hoped her voice had the proper amount of fear and distain, “but I am experienced in mine. I can tell you that selling that necklace for scrap is idiotic. Who ever your ‘contact’ is is going to rob you blind. The value in this necklace isn’t in just the gold and the diamonds. It’s in the craftsmanship too. Give me a couple hours and I can have a buyer lined up for it. Discrete, of course. And they will pay well above the 20 for it.” He tugged her viciously, as if that would shut her up. Instead Alex tripped. She could have easily avoided the fall, but instead she threw her weight into the forward momentum. Cliff’s grasp on her wrist broke, and she hit the ground hard. It took her all of half of a second to pop back up and wipe the gravel and blood from her palms onto her jeans. Cliff made a move to grab her again, but she smacked his hand away. A moment later she realized perhaps her defiance would get her killed. It didn’t matter. Alexandria Carter was the stubborn and defiant type. She’d be damned before she lost that aspect of this character.

“I’m not a child,” she spat. “I can keep up just fine.” She straightened her spine and began to walk briskly. Closing the distance, Alex drew even with Cliff’s shoulder. Yes, she had to take several steps just to keep up with his one stride, but at least his was less attention drawing than being dragged down the street. “You would do well to consider what I said. This is, after all, my field of expertise. And let me assure you, it’s not my first day on the job either, honey.”

[nickey]

The closer Cliff and Alex got to the Underground, the more attitude began to flow from Alex causing Cliff to wonder if he should have been bringing her with him. She would go back and forth between hints of fear and hints of pompousness. Cliff didn't know what to think of this woman, and perhaps the intrigue of who this woman was and what connections she could provide him was urging him to drag her along.

Rough fingers scratched against the stubble on Cliff's face as his internal battle continued to storm. His eyes would occasionally drift toward the red head beside him, and the long alley way ahead of them. If he was going to ditch her, he was running out of time before they hit the underground. And if he planned on dragging her through the Underground with him, what would his story be? It wasn't everyday that an Undergrounder would kidnap someone and allow him or her back into his apartment. It was just a general rule to protect oneself.

Cliff's eyes wandered back to Alex once again; how did he know for sure that she wasn't going to screw him over when they got to the Underground? She could have been wearing a bug, or have a tracker in her phone.


"Okay, just stop right there." Cliff came to a sudden halt, the dirt flying up around his feet at the sudden abruptness of his stop. His head tilted back, eyes searching the sky for some ort of answer but was only met with the bright sun.

Cliff took a deep breath and lit yet another cigarette, shoving the other hand in his pocket as a cold chill washed over him. It may have been mid afternoon, but where they stood the sun almost never shined. The heat seemed to avoid these alleys like the plague.

"I haven't decided if you're worth the risk or not," his eyes followed the lines of the tough brick behind her head but eventually landed back on Alex. Did she know where they were? Did she know how close they were to the Underground entrance? Had she ever seen the Underground, and was she ready to spend minutes with people worse than Cliff?

A loud cough boomed from deep in Cliff's chest; damn the cigarettes.

Could she handle it? Would she break and let loose information nobody should know? If word got out that he was carrying wads of cash that equaled a few thousand dollars and the woman beside him carried a necklace worth over twenty grand they were goners.

Cliff cleared his throat, "I need you to empty your pockets, leave your phone and any other electronic you're carrying." His cigarette flew to the ground, his heavy foot stomping to put it out, "And leave your purse."

A long arm extended, pointing toward the Underground entrance, "As soon as you walk down those steps and into the Underground, your whole identity is gone. I'll still call you Alex, but nobody else will know who you are. Nobody should be able to contact you or get a hold of you at any time. Do you understand that, Alex? You are gone, nothing but dust in the wind as soon as you follow me down there."

A cold gust of wind blew down the alley, "Are you ready?"

[athena]

It was almost laughable. To be dust in the wind implied that she had been something, someone before. But she hadn’t. Alexandria had never been anything to begin with, and never would be. Cliff didn’t know that though. To him, she was no doubt an uppity Surfacer who wouldn’t be able to handle the reality of the Underground. She intended to live up to only the first half of that. Alex stared solemnly at him, her hazel eyes boring steadily into his. She shrugged and turned out her pockets revealing only pocket lint and an empty gum wrapper. Next, Alex dug around her in her purse and pulled out her ear bud and smart phone. She had hated the device and never used it, but she was suddenly glad that the expensive tech made her look just like the “uppity Surfacer” she was trying to be. Alex only flinched slightly when Cliff crunched the two pieces beneath his boot.

With a blasé toss, she chucked her purse down an alley. There was nothing incriminating in the bag, but if it made Cliff feel better than so be it. She clutched tightly to her duffle bag though. “I will keep this. I need some clothes.” Alex eyed the large hitman speculatively. “Unless you plan on buying me some. I sure as shit can’t wear yours.” As if a peace offering, she thrust her duffle bag out. “You can check it if you need to.” And check it he did. Alex tried to muster an offended and slightly violated look like any average lady would. Honestly, it didn’t particularly bother her that a strange man was pawing through her unmentionables, but she reminded herself that an average Surfacer would care very much. Cliff paused on a lacy practically see through lingerie set. Alex forced a blush to tinge her cheeks. “Are you quite finished?” He smirked and zipped the bag shut.

“Are you ready?”

An ominous, stale breeze blew out from what could only be the underground. She swallowed noticeably and managed a small nod. Cliff offered a wolfish grin before turning and tromping off into the depths. Alex tried hard to keep up, but in the sudden dank darkness she felt disoriented. She relied solely on the sound of Cliff’s heavy footsteps to guide her. Just as abruptly the tunnel opened up into a large cavern. It was dimly lit by crackling bulbs. The buildings rose out of the gloom to form a collapsing city. Neglect had long reigned under the surface. Alex paused to let her eyes adjust further. Supposedly, the Underground had been posh. A real up and coming place to live. It didn’t look like it now. Alex snapped back to the now and noticed Cliff was beginning to disappear into the gloom.

She jogged the few paces and walked behind him, silent. She had never been to the Underground. Even when she was homeless and starving at least she was on the surface. Alex couldn’t even begin to fathom what living in this sunless hellhole was like. Heaps of trash littered the streets, and Alex felt a small part of her roil in disgust when she realized some of the piles were corpses and others men on the edge of death. She couldn’t help but muffle a startled scream when one of them grabbed her pants hem. Alex shook off the weak hand. The pile of rags cackled, “Better watch out,” it croaked, “this one has teeth.” Alex sneered and hurried to catch up to Cliff.

Lightly she tugged on the elbow of Cliff’s sleeve. She didn’t expect him to stop, and he didn’t. Alex just occasionally tugged on his sleeve as if admitting her fear and seeking reassurance. Although she wasn’t particularly scared, the Underground unsettled her somewhat. She was used to playing her games on the Surface, where people hid behind a veneer of politeness and lies. This wa a different game all together, yet it was a challenge and Alex felt the part of her that enjoyed challenges rise up. She hid it away. Again she tugged on the corner of his sleeve. “Where are we going,” Alex asked in a small voice, pretending to be properly cowed, although not completely, by the oppressive atmosphere of the Underground.

[nickey]

Home.

Even if it was dingy, dark and smelled rotten, it was all Cliff had ever known to call home. Mutant-like and disfigured people walked, or dragged, their body around the grounds, moaning in pain and dissatisfaction at their life.

It was no surprise when the figures in the shadows started to holler as the pair passed the crowds; it was their only form of entertainment. And at the sight of a young woman who didn't appear, on the surface, as if she had ever spent a day in the Underground they really went all out. Some were more sexual, others were gruesome and dirty. Occasionally they would throw a hand forward, smile and lick their dried out bloodied lips. It was almost enough to churn Cliff's stomach, the thoughts that these men had about women, he began to wonder exactly what Alex thought about all of this. On the Surface she had appeared to be quite calm, a lot calmer than he had expected, but there were still hints of fear laced in her words.

Now that she had a real taste and look at the Underground, Cliff could almost feel the uncomfortable feeling rolling off of her shoulders. No doubt it was what was feeding all of the creeps around them. Even if it was the tiniest bit, they picked up on it. His eyes occasionally flicked over to her, then through the crowds of people and back to the long strech of walk ahead of them.

Tall, dilapidated buildings stood menacingly over the streets, threatening to crumble and fall at any given moment. But they never did. They managed to stand proud, housing thousands of homeless people who had nowhere else to run to.

Alex muttered a simple question. Where were they going?

A sizeable billboard stood in front of them. Cliff quickly grabbed Alex's arm and steered her in the opposite direction as screams echoed loudly behind the metal poles. If there was an area of the Underground the Cliff never mingled in, it was the billboards. In his younger days, of which he hardly remembered, he had on a few occasions found himself there. A quick shudder ran through Cliff's body.

"I'm taking you back to one of my hideouts," his eyes searched for any sign of foot traffic before pulling her between two buildings that stood close together. If you weren't Cliff, you had no idea that this alley way existed. His body turned sideways in order to fit through the tough brick exterior, Alex following suit. It was eerily quiet down this alleyway, as it always was. All Cliff could hear was the thudding of four feet hitting pavement below them and some screeching noises in the background.

"I still have to figure out what I'm going to do with you, exactly." Cliff mulled it over in his mind for a few more seconds, quickening his step as the end of alleyway approached the duo. "I definitely ain't gonna bring you on any jobs with me...yet."

Just a few more steps and Cliff pushed aside a large piece of metal, squeezed his body out of the alleyway, and pulled Alex out behind him. He looked up as they emerged, inhaling deeply a fresher air quality. While it was nowhere near amazing, it wasn't quite so full of blood, bleach and death.

A fog cloud rolled over the dimly lit shack. And it was the only shack in the area, unknown to the rest of the Underground and hidden behind skyscrapers. Nothing but brick surrounded the small shack and that was the way Cliff life it; it was exactly why Cliff built back here.

Cliff rolled the large piece of metal back over the opening and turned again, taking it the the sight of his place. "Let's go," Cliff murmured shortly, grabbing the bags and tossing them over his shoulder. "We'll stay for the night, at the very least. You may be stuck with me in here for the next couple of days, depends on how much of a stock of food I have here." A quiet click sounded as Cliff unlocked the door and swung it open. He tossed the bags off to the side on a small wooden bench and allowed Alex all the way into the entryway.

Cliff shut the door behind her, using the deadbolt and three others to lock the door behind her. "The bed is over there in the corner," Cliff motioned, not that she couldn't already see it. "And the bathroom is behind that door," the only door, other than the entrance. "The toilet and shower work, feel free to use them."

A small fridge sat off to the side with a case of beer sitting on top. Cliff opened the door, checking out the collection of food he had managed to stash over the last couple of weeks. "Looks like we have enough food to stay here for at least two days. That should give me enough time to figure out what to do about this and for you to get that buyer for the necklace you were talking about." He collapsed onto a small ripped couch, his body relaxing immediately as he exhaled loudly.

"Feel free to check out the place," Cliff chuckled.

[athena]

It was a small and cramped space. Alex wasn’t even sure if it could even be called a home. Cliff’s description of it, a hideout, seemed to suit the building best. The place brought back memories of Alex’s childhood on the street. Of running and hiding and trying not to be kidnapped or killed. She pushed the memories away and forced herself to concentrate on her settings. Although the furniture and appliances were dingy and well used, the place was surprisingly clean. It was clear that Cliff took a sort of pride in his hideout. Alex stood by the door silently. She had surveyed the place as much as she dared and was now at a loss as to what to do. There were so many questions she wanted to ask Cliff, but she doubted he would answer questions. Worse, it would probably raise suspicions if she began chattering as if her whole situation was normal. So she stood there silently.

Time drudged by slowly. Cliff lit up another cigarette, filling the hideout with its stale smell. Alex crinkled her nose. She hated those cancer sticks. They left behind a far too recognizable scent that could easily tip off a target. Finally, Alex spoke up. “I’ll need a phone or something to get in touch with my contact.” Cliff nodded. He didn’t trust her – Alex would be disappointed if he did – but the prospect of money had him digging in his pockets and passing her his burner phone. Alex took it and punched the number into the cheap phone. Out of habit, she turned her back to Cliff and listened to the incessant ringing of the phone.

“Hellloooo?” A voice cooed from the other of the line. “Evelyn? It’s Alexandria.” Recognition dawned in her voice. “Oh hello darling! It has been so long! What can I do for you?” Alex forced cheer into her voice as she responded to the rather vapid woman. “I have a piece you might be interested in.” More cooing. She sounded like a damn bird. Alex briefly described the necklace, doing it more justice than it deserved. The couch creaked behind her as Cliff readjusted himself. Perhaps he expected to hear numbers bandied about, but that was simply not how surface deals worked. She’d have to show Evelyn the piece, convince her that it was worth the thirty-five grand she was going to sell it for. It would be a tricky process, but Evelyn was a push over and loved gaudy things. They would come out with more than she had initially promised. And when Evelyn wore that horrific necklace out to some event that Bellavere would undoubtedly be at...well the look on his face would be priceless. Of course he would never say that the necklace was stolen. That would compromise his reputation. Instead he would smile and nod as if he’d never seen the piece.

“I’m sorry what?” Alex asked politely, realizing she had missed the woman’s words. “I asked if you would be willing to fix a couple of other pieces I had about. Small things really.” Alex thought a moment. She would need her tools, but it was understood that if she agreed there would be an additional payment. “Of course,” Alex purred. “Wonderful! How about you stop by tomorrow afternoon. Let’s say around three?” “Sounds wonderful Evelyn. I will tell you this is somewhat of an unusual situation. I’ve been contacted by a private seller; this is not through Bellavere’s.” There was a long pause on the other end of the line. She was waiting. “The seller may or may not accompany me tomorrow. The piece holds some meaning to him, however he will only attend should his schedule permit.” More silence from Evelyn. Alex waited patiently. “Ok!” She finally responded cheerfully. “I’ll be sure to look my best!” Evelyn laughed, and Alex forced her own polite laughter. “Well then, we’ll see you tomorrow. Bye bye.”

Alexandria turned to return the burner to Cliff. He was watching her intently. “We have a meeting with her tomorrow at three. I’m going to need a few things from my place, and you are going to have to look like a wealthy Surfacer if you plan on going with me to the meeting.” She finally moved from the doorway. Hesitantly, Alex poked at the bed, half expecting some sort of rodent to jump out from beneath the lumpy sheets. Satisfied that it was just bedding, Alex sat down as quietly as she could manage. With a deft hand she pulled her coppery hair into a loose bun and tugged off her boots. “I can give you a list and instructions for my apartment, or we can go tomorrow morning before the meeting. Whatever you decide boss man,” she finished shakily. Alex stretched out and hooked her duffle bag strap with her toe. She dragged it across the floor and began rummaging through it for the old paperback she kept in her bag. Finding it, she grabbed the book like it was a life preserver. She opened it and rifled through the pages until she found the spot that seemed like she had left off at. Silence settled back over the small hole as Alex pretended to read and Cliff contemplated her fate.

[nickey]

Cliff listened half-heartedly as Alex called her prospective buyer. His eyes studied the detailed wood above him as he kicked the boots off of his feet, nose flinching at the smell that wafted up. His eyes caught sight of Alex, standing on the other side of the room. She was the first woman to ever step foot in this place. Hell, she was the only other person period to step foot in this place.

There had never been a person he had even thought about bringing back here. It was his solitary place to stay safe, lay low and shower every once and a while. He didn't make a habit of coming and going often. It would attract too much attention to the small space and Cliff wasn't willing to risk it. When he came here, he stayed for days - sometimes even weeks.

Cliff groaned and shifted again on the springy couch. It didn't look like he would be staying here long. And he really needed a break; he had spent too much time on the Surface trying to track down his money and eliminate a few loose ends.

Another glance at Alex as the memories of the last few days swam around in his mind. Now he had a hostage. She was in his safe place. And he wasn't even going to get laid. "Fuck." he whispered under his breath, turning to stare at her as she clicked the phone shut.

She spoke, filling him in on the deal that had been reached between her and the woman on the other end. Alex flopped down on the bed, pulling her bag forward and grabbing a book. She was calm. Really fucking calm for a hostage. Cliff studied her body for a moment, how she easily landed on the bed and began reading, not even waiting to see if he approved of what was happening or not. As if she felt he was going to do whatever the hell she wanted him to do for that lump sum of money.

Suddenly he was angry, raging boiling from deep down. He would have done a lot of things for money - basically anything - but to have Alex assume she had control over this situation was hilarious and yet enraged Cliff quite a bit. "A trip to your apartment? Do you think I'm fucking stupid?" Cliff laughed deeply. "As if, honey. You think that because you gave me the option to follow you there or let you go alone, that I'm actually going to allow it to happen?"

Cliff swung his feet off of the couch, leaning forward, "Just because I heard you on the phone, doesn't mean I know who you were talking to. Or if I could trust you to not have someone there waiting to take me out." He shrugged his shoulder, one eyebrow lifting slightly, "You'll have to figure something else out in terms of tools."

Now he was standing, approaching the woman. "And you really should have asked me about a timeline before you assumed we could just leave this place tomorrow. As if you didn't see what it was like getting in here." A dirty hand ran through the mop of greasy hair on his head, "It's not easy getting in and out, and I'm not one to draw attention to myself."

A cold bottle of beer found its way into Cliff's grasp, a pop sounded through the small place as the cap came off and the neck of the bottle was pressed tightly to his lips. It was soothing to feel the cold liquid flowing freely down his throat. He moaned deeply, pulling the bottle away, "Want one?" he muttered, placing a bottle beside her on the bed as he sat down with her. "I'm not risking the safety of this place just because you're in a rush to get back out there. Twenty grande ain't worth it," a small smile curled at the left corner of his mouth, "not unless there's something else you're willing to give." He leaned in closely, inhaling the scent on her neck deeply. He felt her body stiffened, but he couldn't tell whether it was because she was creeped out or somewhat turned on. He pulled away quickly, laughing loudly. "How long has it been since you've had any action?"

"Relax," he took another swig of his beer. "I'm going to shower, I'll figure out a better timeline while I'm in there and get back to you. You'll have to call her back, reschedule and all that jazz." Cliff stood, pulling his top off to reveal a set of toned abs he was more than proud of.

He winked at Alex before exiting to the bathroom. He left the door open to keep a better ear out for her, not caring if she could see him. Slowly, he continued to strip before stepping into the shower. He was more than okay with giving Alex a little show.

[athena]

Alex swore silently to herself. If this man called her honey one more time she would smack him, consequences be damned. She despised the way he said it, despised the connotations behind it. Instead, Alex swallowed her distaste and forced an innocent look of confusion. “Oh,” she muttered simply when he had drawn his rant to a close. “I hadn’t really considered…” she said softly. Of course she hadn’t. Things were different on the surface. At least this time it worked in her favor…made her look like the innocent fool. Cliff leered at her. The tension between them was palpable, and as Alex sat quietly she realized she was irking him. It would have brought a smile to her face, but Cliff plopped down beside her. The bed groaned in protest of their combined weight.

And then he was there, close enough that the stench of beer and sweat were nearly overwhelming. If he moved an inch closer, Cliff would be unpleasantly surprised by an elbow in the gut. Alex tensed, waiting for him to push the boundaries. But he didn’t. Cliff only laughed and passed a bottle of the cat piss he seemed relatively fond of. "How long has it been since you've had any action?" Alex refused to answer his jab and stared intently at a particular patch of dirt. Let that be answer enough for him; apparently it was as the hitman only laughed harder at her. "Relax. I'm going to shower, I'll figure out a better timeline while I'm in there and get back to you. You'll have to call her back, reschedule and all that jazz." She only nodded, averting her eyes as he stripped down. Let him enjoy her “discomfort.” She had seen enough naked men to last her several lifetimes, but if it made him feel like he held the reigns, then so be it.

She kept her eyes averted, occasionally casting a few shy glances upwards as Cliff padded into the bathroom. Alex made sure he saw them. Blessedly, it didn’t take long for Cliff to actually get in the shower. The sound of water splashing against the cheap shower curtain was like a ticking clock for her. She had until the shower turned off and that was it. Searching the hovel would be a waste. Alex already knew that he would have nothing of value here. Or perhaps in any of his hideouts. Her main concerns were sending a check in to the organization and allaying some of Cliff’s suspicions. The first task would be far easier than the second.
Slowly and silently, Alex reached out for the velvet jewelry box. She expertly shifted her weight about so the ancient bed springs wouldn’t complain and give her away. With a well-practiced hand, Alex extracted the necklace and cupped it in her hands. She whispered her location, status, and goal to the invisible bug before returning the necklace to its case and sliding it back in her bag. Task one complete. On to task two.

She shimmied out of her raggedy blue jeans and into the pajama shorts she had stashed away. The worn jacket was tossed aside. Alex rolled the short sleeves until the shirt became a tank top. Absently, she ran a finger over the smooth, silvery scar that peeked out from beneath the rolled fabric. There were a hundred more splayed across her back and shoulders. Reminders of a rougher life and failed training attempts. But for Alexandria Carter, they were gift from abusive parents. At least that was what she had told Matthew the first time he had undressed her. And that was what she would tell Cliff if he asked. Although Alex knew he wouldn’t.

With a sudden fury, Alex attacked her eyes. She rubbed and scratched. Tugged at her lashes, scraped mascara. Anything to irritate her eyes. It was not long before they grew puffed and splotchy. More rubbing and her eyes began to water. The make-up smudged on her hands and across her face, but Alex only smiled. She wanted the tears and the mess. Her calm had unsettled Cliff, but now he would glimpse that it was pride that kept her from showing her fear. At least she hoped that was what he took away from the scene. The shower cut off. A moment later he stepped from the shower and peered out into the room, seeking Alex. They made eye contact. Feigning panic, Alex wiped away at the tears she had managed to produce. She hoped the make-up smeared even more. She sniffled and proudly tilted her chin as he stared at her harder. A small part of her was tempted to say something snide, but instead she broke the stare and turned away, burying her face in her knees.

She could hear Cliff moving about behind her, and she sniffled a few more times for good measure. Desperately, she wiped away the make-up before turning to find him resettled on the couch. Silence. It seemed to stretch on, and finally Alex found her curiosity getting the better of her. “How did you get into this…business?” she asked softly. Cliff stared. The look on his face clearly read, “You’re a fucking idiot.” “No, never mind. I don’t want to know.” Alex collected her hair and loosely tied it up. More silence descended, but she refused to sit idly. She wanted information, and she would get it eventually. “Uhm…so what do you do when you…uh hide? Do you just sit here all day? Surely that gets boring?”

[nickey]

As Cliff exited the shower he spotted Alex, lingering beside the bed with her back turned to him. Thoughts about whether or not he was doing the right thing by keeping her here kept swimming through his mind as his wrapped a towel around his body.

She turned to look at him and that's when he could see the tear-stained cheeks and bloodshot eyes. Smudges of make-up wisked across her face as if they had been painted on, and for a moment he actually began to feel something deep in the pit of his stomach. Which he was quick to shake off as he dressed himself and walked out of the bathroom. He couldn't start to feel bad for her; this was the exact reason he didn't keep his victims for longers than a few hours, and that was only if it was absolutely necessary to obtain valuable information.

He groaned silently to himself as Alex turned her back to him, seemingly somewhat embarrassed of the fact that Cliff had caught her in a vulnerable moment. At least, that's what he was assuming. Alex had surprised him a few times before and they had only just met. For the time being, he assumed she was genuinely afraid of the situation she had landed herself in. But Cliff would remain cautious and on his toes while she was around.

Trust no woman.

The couch groaned in a protest as Cliff plopped his body weight down on it. He didn't speak a word and an almost awkward silent tension began to fill the room.

“How did you get into this…business?” her voice was soft, he could barely make out what she had asked him. Cliff's eyebrow raised in curiousity before the furrowed in confusion. Why did she want to know? But before he could even mutter a syllable, Alex was speaking again, “No, never mind. I don’t want to know.”

He shrugged his shoulders. It wasn't an interesting story; it was just the life he had been born into. A luck of the draw, some would say. And, once you get so far into this type of life, there is simply no going back. Cliff had tried a few times, resulting only in reminders from those around him of the consequences. Absent mindedly, Cliff rubbed the scar below his collarbone; just one of those reminders.

A small silence filled the room again and he began to wonder if maybe he should put some batteries in his radio and turn on some music to fill the air. But again, Alex was speaking before he could make a move.

“Uhm…so what do you do when you…uh hide? Do you just sit here all day? Surely that gets boring?”

Eyebrows raised again, but a small smirk sat idly on his lips. Small-talk. Not something he had really engaged in with someone unless it was for business-related reasons. Heck, Cliff couldn't remember the last time he talked to someone because he simply wanted to.

"Well, since you're interested," he began as he sat forward on the couch, "I usually take this time to collect my thoughts about recent jobs." Cliff opened the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water this time and throwing one toward Alex. "I tend to plan out future jobs that I've been recruited for, do some training routines or bandage any wounds I've managed to collect while on the Surface," he chuckled deeply. "It's also nice to be able to sleep," Cliff's eyes met with Alex, "because you know, Undergrounders don't really sleep while we're on the Surface, right? I don't have much of a choice but to stay awake. It's not my territory, I have no hideouts up there to stow away in and keep safe. Some aquaintances who offered couches on occasion, yes, so that I can stay up for a few weeks at a time. But I try not to do that because then I feel like I owe someone. I never want to owe anybody something."

He relaxed back into the couch, "Sometimes I go three days without sleep while on the Surface, then I'll come back down to the Underground for a few days to catch up on my sleep and meals."

Dark, brooding eyes stared forward as his mind began to play what had happened last time he had been bored down here, "I try to keep myself occupied. When you get bored, your mind has time to wander and in my profession, a wandering mind is not something you can allow. There are too many ghosts lurking in your shadows for that shit."

Cliff snapped back into reality, "Yeah. So...what do you do on the Surface that makes you valuable?"

[athena]

Dare she think it? It seemed strange to think a hit man actually had some sort of conscience. Yet, there Cliff sat, a dark brooding look on his eyes that she recognized all to well. Ghosts, ghosts she knew all too well. And skeletons, although Alex suspected Cliff had more ghosts than skeletons lurking about. She delicately sipped the water bottle, yet another indication that there might be something else lurking beneath the surface. He had practically promised that he wouldn’t be easy on her, but as far as she could tell it was a walk in the park. There was shelter, food, water, and the added bonuses of indoor plumbing. It was more than she was expecting.

In fact, as Cliff vaguely explained his life style she realized there was quite a bit she wasn’t expecting. It had never occurred to her that Undergrounders would stay awake for long periods of time. For some reason, she had pictured them as crawling up to the Surface and scurrying back Underground when the day was done. Like some average Joe with an average job. Showed how much she knew. Life here was radically different than anything she knew. Alex studied Cliff silently as he wandered through his own memories. She could see the toll this life had taken on him. He looked so...worn? That word didn’t seem to fit, but Alex struggled to find just what she was searching for.

"Yeah. So...what do you do on the Surface that makes you valuable?"

“I keep the boredom away,” she said coyly, allowing all the innuendo to sink in before masking it with an innocent smile. Alex readjusted, turning so that Cliff could see her better. She tried to give off as nonthreatening a pose as possible. As though she was somewhat relaxed, although not entirely. Alex waved off her last statement, her, hopefully, most charming smile plastered on her face. “Not really. As you know I worked in the jewelry shop.” Cliff grunted. But really I work for the largest crime syndicate on the surface. I just happen to be the best infiltrator and thief they’ve got, Alex thought.

“I have connections,” she said instead with a shrug. “You don’t work at that place for as long as I have without building clientele. I know all the wealthiest movers and shakers, or at least enough of them that I can get around pretty well. Mr. Bellavere himself has connections to the governor, although I’ve never actually met the man. Just made some pieces for him. Or the wife.” Alex polished off her bottle of water and looked for a disposal basket. Cliff pointed to one in the corner and she hopped off the bed and padded to the corner. The bottle made a crinkling noise as it hit the bottom of the empty can.

“My boyfriend,” she paused for a moment, evaluating her choices. “Ex-boyfriend I suppose now. I doubt I’ll ever see him again.” She let her sadness permeate the air before audibly swallowing and brushing aside the “sorrow” for false cheer. “Matthew’s the governor’s assistant. So there’s that.” Alex contemplated sitting on the other end of the couch. She let Cliff see that contemplation. And then she returned to her perch on the bed. Let him know that she didn’t trust him anymore than he trusted her.

“I guess what applies most to you is I’m trained in security. Not like cop stuff, but I know all the new systems and most of the old. Know their weaknesses, how they work, how to make you disappear from footage without it being blaringly obvious something is off. Bellavere wanted an expert in the shop. It got me a raise so I didn’t complain much about it. I have an apartment on the Surface too. I suppose if you need a hideout that could work. It’s not like you’d owe a hostage anything. Oh, and I can craft some lovely jewelry and repair it as well. Which fetches quite a lot of money when you do home visits to the wealthy. I suppose I could figure out a way to repair whatever you’ve got laying around too. Of course, I’d need my tools for that,” Alex hinted subtly.

Feeling comfortable enough, she stretched out across the bed on her stomach. She tried hard not to think about how disgusting or unclean the sheets might be. She had dealt with worse in her lifetime than dirty bedding. Cliff watched her intently, as if that would be enough to peel away her layers and find out her secrets. She wondered briefly what exactly he was thinking, more precisely what he thought of her. If her calculations were off, it could end very badly for her. Alex smiled sleepily. “Guess it’s my turn to ask another question huh?” She feigned exhaustion and chuckled drowsily. “It’s almost like a game.” She thought a moment, idly twirling some the rough sheet around her fingers. “Hmmm...Do you regret anything in particular? I know you kill people, but I suppose you’ve come to terms with that. But why? Money? Lives are so valuable..." She trailed off, knowing that her words had begun to sound tangled and confused. She breathed deeply, and closed her eyes. Once she felt secure enough, she would sleep if only lightly. For now though, she pretended she was beginning to drift off. She slowed her rhythm of breathing. Opening her eyes only half a slit, she said, “I don’t suppose you’re going to answer that.” It was only when she heard his deep timbre that Alex closed her eyes and slowed her breathing even further. For all intents and purposes, she wanted him to think that the day had finally caught up with her and she had finally drifted off to sleep.

[nickey]

Cliff listened intently, taking in the information she was willing to give. His eyebrows raised; it would definitely benefit him to have her close, especially if she was as good with technology as she was claiming. He wouldn't have to worry about cameras or leaving any traces of evidence behind. Alex had proved back at the jewelry store that she could be quick, and was confident in her ability to do in right in a short time period as well as under pressure.

It was too bad she wasn't part of the same society as Cliff; they could have made quite a team. Unstoppable, rich and powerful as hell. His eyes drifted shut, his body relaxing into the couch. Flashes of what life would be like continued to play in his mind like an old movie. There would be beach houses, parties, alcohol, and tons of money in banks all over the world. Perhaps a private jet to tote them around the world and hook up with contacts.

He shook his head when realization hit that he had zoned out. Peering over, he noticed she had stopped talking. Her eyes would open sleepily and then close again. Cliff stared for a moment, his eyes taking in the sight of her body.

She lay on the bed, her legs curling into her body. Her curves moved slowly in a deep rhythm as she drifted into sleep. He had to admit when she wasn't talking or sticking her nose in the air, she wasn't bad looking. The pajamas were a tighter fit on her body than the clothes earlier had been and showed off her womanly figure.

Cliff rubbed a rough hand over his face, shaking away the thoughts. He had to get a grip on reality; he would never attempt to touch her, and while she was around it was highly unlikely that he'd been able to pick up anyone else. He bit his lip as he thought about what a chore that would be, he was definitely used to getting a little action whenever he wanted it.

He stood up from the couch, pulling a large quilted blanket from underneath it and sprawled it over Alex. The temperature was already dropping and Cliff's knowledge of the underground made him aware of just how fast it would continue to drop.

Sighing Cliff laid back down on he couch, grabbing a sheet off the back of it and laying it on top of himself. His hand stretched back and laid to rest under his head. Within a few minutes an echo of quiet snores could be heard from Cliff.

***

His body jolted causing Cliff to wake up abruptly. Beads of sweat were running down the sides of his face and his heart was racing. It was the same dream he had nearly every time he slept; a crowd of people surrounded him, all of them were familiar faces. Faces of the people he had killed and hurt looking at him and groaning. Their lips were moving but all that Cliff could hear was a mush of murmurs. But no matter how many times Cliff had this dream, the people never moved. They stayed crowded around him, unarmed and mumbling, but that was it.

For a minute Cliff forgot about the presence of another person in the room, but quickly jolted out of it and stared over in her direction. She was facing the wall and Cliff couldn't tell whether or not she was awake or if she was still in a slumber.

His body protested as Cliff swung his legs over the edge of the couch, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Clearing his throat, he called her name quietly, "Alex?"

[athena]

As soon as she heard the rhythmic snoring from Cliff, Alex had crawled out from beneath the quilt and quietly left the bed. It seemed he had more of a soft spot than he let on. Alex smirked at the thought as she threw on a coat and pulled on boots. With practice, she drew out the necklace and found the bug. It was difficult to remove it without the necessary tools, but she somehow managed. Her next step would be trickier. How hard did Cliff sleep? If what he told her was true, then it had been several days since he had last gotten any real rest. Hypothetically, he should be out cold.

Quietly, Alexandria tip toed around the hit man and forced the door open. It groaned in protest, and she froze. The snores continued on uninterrupted. She slipped out into what she could only assume was the night. From her previous experience, Alex was quite aware that travelling alone in the still hours of the night was not the wisest course of action. Of course, at the time she had also been pretending to be somebody else entirely. She could take care of herself if she had too. And luckily she didn’t. The agent waited for her at the end of alley she and Cliff had pressed through only hours before. They flashed each other the most recent hand signal, indicating that he was in fact a trustworthy source. Well, as far as one could trust another agent.

Alex pressed the bug into his open palm. “I’ll be going off the grid for a while. I do not think it is wise for me to carry these while I’m around this fellow.” The agent nodded. “Boss will want reports though, and locations.” Alex waved him off impatiently. “Don’t worry, I’ll get those to him. Or Toby. That seems most likely. Tell him to keep watch for footage. Plus you have this location and a possible ‘recruit.’ Tell him I see potential.” The agent nodded once again before vanishing into the night. Always keep conversations brief and information limited. Give too much away and they wouldn’t need you anymore. Alex pushed a hand through her hair before slipping back into the small hideout. Cliff still snored heavily, and it seemed as if he had no idea of what had transpired. A good thing really. She wouldn’t have made it through the door otherwise. After carefully replacing all the items in the exact spot she had left them before she left, Alex crawled back under the quilt and curled into a tight ball. Now she could allow herself some sleep.


“Alex?” The sound came distantly. It took her brain a moment to place the surprisingly warm voice. And who the hell was Alex? Oh....that is me. And that was Cliff. And she was a “hostage.”

***

“Uwha?” she moaned, maybe groaned, groggily in response. Her quilt cocoon was far too comfortable for her to roll over just yet. Again, Cliff called to her softly. “Wha?” She mumbled this time. At least it was a step towards intelligible language. She even managed to roll over and fix a bleary stare on him. Alexandria Carter was not a morning person. In fact, she felt the grumpy scowl settle on her face as she stared at the suddenly silent hit man. “It’s not time yet,” she said pathetically while pulling the blanket up to her ears. All that could be seen were her hazel eyes peering out of the nest she had made. Her eyes fluttered shut as the silence grew. She heard Cliff get up, and water running. She assumed he was doing his morning routine. Everybody had one.

A few minutes later, the gruff command came. “Get up.” “No.” Silence. Perhaps arguing about getting out of bed with Cliff was a little short sighted. Alex brushed aside the thought. This was what this character did. She didn’t like to get out of bed. She was a spoiled child about it. And it had the added benefit of annoying him. “Get up now.” A subtle hint of threat lay underneath the command. “We’ve got stuff to do.” Alex nestled deeper into the blanket. “Like what?” She demanded almost petulantly. “I thought you said we were going to lay low here for a few days. Reschedule, all that jazz.” He fixed his gaze on her. “I changed my mind.”

Alex forced a huff before sliding from the bed. “Then I suppose I should get ready.” She collected her small bottles of soap and shampoo from her duffle, her other toiletries, and a change of clothes. Remembering Cliff’s slow saunter to the shower last night, Alex forced a blush before quickly padding into the dingy bathroom and shutting the door. Well almost shutting it anyway. She left a slight crack so that Cliff could hear what she was up too. Ever accommodating she was. Without complaint Alex showered, filling the small hide out with the scent of coconut and hibiscus. Still silent, she dressed in a snug, formfitting mossy green dress. Although the shower had made her feel more human, she still wasn’t quite ready to talk.

With a practiced hand she applied her make up, transforming herself from tired to sultry and chic. She swept up her hair in a messy bun and pulled a few pieces loose to frame her slender neck and oval face. It was all part of a calculated look...one that would clearly convey sex appeal, wealth, and a hint of the exotic. Evelyn loved to play that game. Loved to know that there was somebody out there who enjoyed the same things as she did. Alex was more than happy to oblige the woman, especially if it meant a good sale. She had played this role before in the past.

She cast a cursory glance into the fogged mirror and decided it would do before pulling the door open. “I’m ready,” she said softly. “Are you?” Alex looked at the man. “No,” she answered for him, “you’re not. If you plan on sitting in on this deal, you’re going to need to look like a wealthy Surfacer. It’s not going to work if you look...well like that. Please tell me you have something you can wear,” she finished, letting a hint of exasperation creep into her voice.

[nickey]

Cliff stared at Alex as she busied herself getting ready for the meeting with this buyer. Right before his eyes she was showered, dressed and drawing make-up on her face. He had zoned out for a moment when he heard her voice begin to break through his thoughts. She was asking his he was ready to leave, as if he was actually going to attend this meeting with her.

At first, Cliff was sure that Alex could handle the situation alone and make the deal with no worries on Cliff's mind. But, the more he watched how her attitude adjusted quickly from one person to a different one, he thought it would be best to follow her and pretend as though he was the seller.

His shoulders shrugged deeply as he fell back into the wall. "Do you really think an Undergrounder has those type of clothes laying around?" Cliff's head shook back and forth, strands of hair falling in front of his eye before he quickly brushed them up. "But I know a guy, we can stop by on the way there. He'll hook me up," he pulled his body off of the wall, leading the way toward the door.

"We can discuss what our story is going to be on the way there." Alex followed him out of the small shack, closing the door tightly behind them they began their trek through the Underground again.

A small groan sounded from Cliff's mouth; it was much too soon to be leaving the Underground but they had a clear way out of the tunnels on a day like today. It was a Wednesday night, and Wednesday night in the Underground was known for being a dead zone. All of the thiefs and killers hid out in their caves and began to rest for a long weekend ahead of drinking, thieving and killing. Alex and Cliff would be able to sneak out pretty easily, but getting back into the Underground unnoticed any time over the weekend would be a terrible nuisance.

"We'll most likely need to use your apartment for a few days," Cliff began, lighting a cigarette between his lips, "there'll be too much traffic to get back here. Sunday night is the earliest we'll be able to get back in without being noticed."

Gun shots echoed loudly in the background. Cliff didn't flinch, but instead cast his eyes to the woman walking beside him. He was more than surprised to witness that Alex was almost completely unphased by the sounds around them. He quickly brushed aside any thoughts as their target place was coming into view.

"Okay, so here's the deal. I'm trying to sell this piece out of my collection because it was my wife's favourite. After she left me I just couldn't bare to look at it anymore so I'm willing to let go of it for the ridiculously low price of twenty-grande." He winked, pulling open a black door. A short chime sounded inside the storm causing a short man to walk out of the back. At first the man's eyes squinted, looking over the pair as they entered.

"It's me, Walt," as soon as Cliff's voiced sounded out in the room, the man relaxed and came forward with a large smile. Walt held a hand out for Cliff to shake, pulling the man in closer.

"Good to see you, old friend," Walt cast a side glance at Alex. "Who's this pretty, young woman?"

A smile flickered across Cliff's face, "This is Alex. A friend to help with a job, is all." Walt nodded shortly before turning back to Cliff.

"What can I help you with?"

"I need a suit..." he began, a hand hooked in his pocket, "something that makes me appear as though I could be a millionaire."

Walt pondered for a moment before disappearing into the back. He appeared again five minutes later with a large black bag in his hand, "This will do, my friend. You can put it on back there," he motioned toward the change room.

Cliff walked behind the curtain, dragging the bag behind him. He slipped into the clothes quietly, re-adjusting the collar a few times before exiting the change room again.

A pure black suit fit Cliff to a perfect T. The black dress-shirt underneath blended in to the coat but a pair of white suspenders peaked through occasionally. Walt pushed a shoe box across the floor, revealing a pair of black leather shoes. Cliff pushed his feet in both, "Thanks, Walt. I owe you one," Cliff shook the man's hand again.

"No, no, my friend. After all you've done for me, this is the least I could do."

Cliff nodded, "I'll come and check up soon." He placed a soft hand on Alex's back, nudging her out the door.

"Okay, take me to the meeting spot."

[athena]

Alex watched his interactions with Walt and filed away the information for later use. There seemed to be something between them that spoke of a deeper history. Perhaps she could use this man against Cliff if she ever needed the leverage. Walt watched her intently, as if he could see the cogs working in her mind. She smiled warmly at the man, yet he didn’t seem entirely convinced. Luckily she wasn’t subjected to his evaluation for too much longer. Cliff appeared from whatever room he had been using and gently ushered her from the shop. If it was even a shop. She really had no idea what Walt’s business was, but considering the circumstances of the Underground, Alex knew better than to ask.

Instead she remained silent as Cliff guided her back to the surface. Once in the afternoon light, Alex turned to study him. “My, my,” she exclaimed in mock shock, “You do clean up well.” He smirked. With an expertise that hinted at her lifestyle, Alex pulled out a small handkerchief, folded it, and tucked it into the breast pocket of his sleek black jacket. “There. Now you’re ready.” She took a moment to orient herself before walking towards Main Street. Cliff followed closely, hands stuffed in his pocket.

“I’d say your wife tragically died. And this,” she took a moment to jiggle the bag with the necklace, “was a family heirloom you gave to her. Or maybe it was hers. Either way after she died, maybe a car accident or something, you couldn’t bear to keep the reminder. Or some nonsense like that. Evelyn eats that stuff up and the sale will go smoother. Trust me, I can squeeze more than twenty out of her. Maybe thirty-five if it goes well.” Cliff raised an eyebrow, but remained silent. No doubt he was contemplating what to do with that much money. They both fell silent, presumably lost in their own thoughts. Only the sound of her heels and the clicking of Cliff’s shoes accompanied them.

Alex led them down Main and turned off onto a quieter street. The homes grew taller, wider, more elaborate. Finally, stopped in front of a house covered in exaggerated architecture and sculptures. She nodded to Cliff before pushing open the well oiled gate. Instantly, she fell into business mode. Her step became more aggressive, more self-assured than she had let Cliff see. She knocked authoritatively on the door and took a half step back. She bumped into Cliff, but ignored him. A moment later, the butler opened the door. “Good afternoon. I have an appointment with Evelyn.” The man nodded before opening the door and allowing the two of them into the home. Alex had been inside before. She was not fazed by the richness of the interior. The excess of the wealthy had long stopped to shock her.

“Alexandria!” She stopped and turned on her heel to see Evelyn waddling towards them. Her arms flapped comically and she approached. She took her by the elbows and kissed Alex firmly on the cheek. “It has been far too long my dear! You should really stop by more often.” Her eyes snapped to Cliff, appraising him. “And who is this?” she fairly purred. “Evelyn, this is Mr....” “Jones,” he supplied smoothly. He offered a halfhearted smile, which seemed to attract the woman further. Alex also smiled. This would most definitely work in their favor.

Evelyn ushered them into what she dubbed her “casual” sitting room. Alex promptly sat, crossing her ankles elegantly. She was forced to wait several minutes as Evelyn showed Cliff around the room, explaining all her collector’s pieces. Alex had to hand it to Cliff; he knew how to act. His feigned interest had Evelyn tripping over herself. It was clear it had been some time since any man had paid her any attention. Finally, the two settled on a couch and Alex forced a fond smile towards the woman. This was only beginning of the dance that would conclude in the sale of the necklace.

Expensive tea and finger foods were provided, and Alex nibbled lightly on a biscuit. She let Evelyn ramble on about her “adventures.” She smiled politely, encouraged, and most of all made the woman feel as if she was the most important woman in the world. Cliff remained, thankfully, silent allowing Alex to weave her magic over the other woman. An hour passed. Then two. Cliff began to look rather bored, yet Alex did not wish to rush Evelyn. She shot him a look that pleaded for him to wait just a few more minutes. The woman was almost ready to transition to business.

As if on cue, Evelyn waved one of her massive arms with a laugh. “But that’s not why you came is it? I believe you had a piece for me?” The woman leaned forward expectantly. “Of course,” Alex responded smoothly. She pulled the black case from her bag and slid it across the low table. Evelyn opened it and gasped. “Oh Alexandria! It’s simply perfect! You know me all too well!” She turned to Cliff. “Mr. Jones why ever would you want to sell such a beautiful piece?” Cliff cleared his throat awkwardly and told his sob story. It had the desired effect. Evelyn’s chin wobbled as she tried to keep her composure. She fondly patted his knee. “I understand. I’ll take good care of it.”

Alex smiled to herself. Evelyn’s affirmation was all she needed to hear. “We should discuss price,” Alex interjected softly. Evelyn waved her arm. “I am afraid it is rather high compared to the previous items I have brought you.” The woman nodded. “It is thirty. Plus my usual fee. As per usual, cash only.” Again, Evelyn nodded in contemplation. “Of course, I have the authentication paperwork and all the other necessary items, and all maintenance and cleaning is included.” It was all standard procedure. Cliff may not be particularly pleased at the prospect of returning, but if Alex omitted it Evelyn would instantly be on alert. The silence grew as Evelyn continued to think. Finally, she sighed. “I can’t resist. I’ll have Jordain collect the sum and have it ready for you.” Alex nodded and stood gracefully. She brought the necklace to Evelyn and draped it across her neck, clasping it. The woman ran her fingers across the diamonds and smiled. Alex held up a small mirror from her bag so that she could see it. Evelyn smiled and sighed softly. “Oh Alexandria it’s so lovely thank you.” She stood and hugged Alex. “Thank you both for thinking of me.” Cliff stood and nodded. Jordain arrived with the brief case and passed it to Cliff. A few more words before the two were finally free.

On the street, Alex let out a sigh of relief. “Thank God that’s over. As promised, you have your thirty-five.” She led Cliff back to Main Street and stopped. The sun was beginning to set, and Alex suspected that he would make good on his promise to make use of her apartment. She looked up at him. “I don’t know about you, but I’m hungry. I know a place if you’re interested. They serve delicious steak, and I suspect you’re a steak kinda guy. Or not.” She shrugged. “Your call boss.”

[nickey]

It took way longer than made Cliff comfortable to get out of that house and away from that awful woman. Cliff actually viewed it a miracle that Alex had even thought there would be a buyer for that ugly piece of neck decoration, but the fact that her buyer had actually forked out the money and happily taken it off their hands was just unbelievable. Not that Cliff was complaining in the least. He was now thirty thousand richer and he was going to have steak for dinner.

He cast a side glance at Alex, watching quietly for a moment as her hair blew around her face in the wind. A silence fell in the air between them, but it was comfortable. There was no need to force any conversation as they walked along the streets. He simply followed her lead as his stomach began to grumble.

Cliff grinned, remembering the thirty thousand dollars that was now his for the taking. But what would he do with Alex now? There was no need to keep her around. She was of almost no value to his operation; if anything she was a threat to him. She knew about the money, she knew about his hideout and she had him on the Surface - a very vulnerable place for an Undergrounder such as himself. Perhaps it was time to get rid of her...

He snuck another glance at Alex. They would have to discuss the future, and the sooner they figured out the issue, the better. Though, Cliff had to admit, she was very kind on the eyes.

A horn honked in the background as they stepped off of the sidewalk and crossed a street. Cliff looked up and read the sign above, assuming that they had finally arrived at their destination. He tugged on the cold metal, allowing it to swing open and Alex to saunter in ahead of him.

His eyes traced her curves for a few seconds as they approached the counter. A sigh escaped his lips - oh, man, was she ever kind on the eyes. Maybe it was her clothing, maybe it was the way she walked, or maybe it was because he was a man with natural wants. Whatever it was, Cliff couldn't deny the attraction he felt for Alex.

Cliff shook his head, clearing away those distracting thoughts.

They were led to a small booth in the corner of the restaurant style pub. There were sconces hanging over every table to help illuminate the dark, romantic setting of the place. Exposed brick stared at them as they slipped into the dark red booth and watched the menus slide onto the wooden table. The waitress introduced herself, offered up the specialties of the day and then excused herself from them to tend to another table of customers.

Cliff looked up at Alex, perking his eyebrows. "Well, I already know what I'm going to get," he paused, pushing the menu away from him, "the steak definitely sounds like what I wanted for dinner tonight."

"And I think I'll order a bottle of wine for us," his fingers rustled through his slicked hair, "to celebrate the sale."

Just like that, before Cliff could utter another word, the waitress was back. He was caught off guard by this woman, she was too all over the place. Her wild red hair was pinned back as much as possible but random strands fluttered around her head. Freckles scattered across her entire face and a pair of sharp green eyes stared at him and Alex. "Ya'll ready yet?" The snap of her gum pierced the silence.

"Can you bring us a bottle of your house wine?" Cliff began, watching as the woman scribbled on her notepad. "Then I'll have the steak, well done, with fries and gravy on the side." Both he and the waitress snapped their attention to Alex.

"What'll you have, darlin'?"

[athena]

This was the part where Alex usually turned her accomplices loose. Free to go their own way…at least that’s what they thought. They would always be kept under close surveillance to make sure nothing went awry. And in case they needed to use them again in the future. As she led Cliff towards the restaurant, Alex doubted that would be Cliff’s method of disposal. He didn’t have an extensive network backing him. His fix would be more permanent. That was exactly why she needed to continue to show him her worth. Hopefully, he would see the benefits of keeping her around. Alex would make sure he did.

Cliff pulled the door open for her when they reached Rick’s place. “Ever the gentleman,” she said softly as she walked through the door. Alex quickly scanned the dimly lit area in search of the owner, who just so happened to pay the organization a great deal of protection money. She relaxed somewhat when she saw Rick wasn’t around. He wasn’t stupid, but he wasn’t the sharpest nail either. She couldn’t have him blabbing on about something he wasn’t supposed too.

Gracefully, she slid into the booth and opened the menu before snapping it shut. She’d been here enough times to know what she wanted. The waitress appeared, disappeared, and then reappeared as if by magic. Alex watched her warily, trying to gauge her. She nearly missed her asking for her order. Alex blinked, taking into account Cliff watched her just as intently as she had been studying the waitress. “I’ll have the ginger salmon and rice.” She pushed the menu towards the waitress. “Thank you dear,” she said with a slight smirk. Alex watched from the corner of her eye as the girl retreated. Her instincts told her to keep an eye on her, and they were often right. A moment later, she returned with their wine and glasses. Finally, Alex turned her attention to Cliff.

Alex smiled softly before pouring two glasses of wine. She slid it over towards Cliff. “A toast,” she said, raising her glass slightly, “to a job well done, and hopefully many more in the future.” She winked playfully before taking a sip. She wanted to be sure he knew she wasn’t stupid. Perhaps a bold gamble, but Alex wouldn’t pretend to be something she wasn’t. All of her personas were smart. She set aside her glass and quietly studied Cliff, letting him see her watch him. Her hazel eyes roved over his mussed hair and still crisp suit. She felt the need to smooth his hair back down. Instead, she folded her hands neatly in her lap. The companionable silence continued. Perhaps the arrangement wouldn’t be so bad after all. If she lived of course.

She scanned the room a saw a familiar face. Alex caught his eye and waved politely. Cliff’s line of sight followed, and he raised his eyebrow ever so slightly. “That’s Dale Lewis. Another one of those wealthy elite who has an affinity for ugly jewelry. He happens to be the CEO of a security company. Not one of the fancy ones that has all the expensive high tech gear. One of the old fashioned ones with actual security personnel. A bit risky if you ask me, but he seems to be doing well. I wouldn’t recommend his services to a client though.”

She clearly had Cliff’s interest. “Security guards are easy to get rid of,” she said with a shrug and another sip. “Knock them out, kill them, bribe them, whatever. It’s too easy to be rid of them. Cameras though, they’re a little more secure. You obviously can’t bribe them, but still. If you have a good hacker, or somebody who knows the ins and outs of the system...well it’s easy to screw that up too. There’s some pretty cutting edge stuff being developed, but it’s not for release yet. I’m not too sure if that’ll catch on though. Surprisingly, a lot of my clients still use guards. They feel like the old ways are the best.”

Alex nodded towards Mr. Lewis as he stood up and collected his wife. “Lewis doesn’t use guards though. He just invested in the newest version of GuardPro surveillance. I set it up for him a few months ago.” A small, smug smile crept onto her face as she took another sip of her wine. “I did tell you I had connections.”

The sketchy waitress reappeared carrying their plates. She set them down with a clatter and stalked off to return to whatever she was doing before their meals were ready. Lightening quick, Alex stole a French fry from Cliff’s plate and popped it in her mouth. “Habit,” she explained with a shrug. “I love the fries. I just wasn’t in the mood for a whole plate. You’re welcome to try some of the salmon or rice.” She offered him a charming smile before turning her attention to her meal.

They ate in silence, each clearly enjoying their meal. Alex was coming to learn that Cliff was a man of few words. Not that it particularly mattered, but it made Alex wonder what he was thinking. Her most recent targets had been chatty. The sound of silverware being set aside indicated Cliff had finished his meal. Alex looked up briefly before polishing off her meal. She pushed aside the plate and smiled contently. A moment later, the waitress was back collecting the plates. Even though she was suspicious, Alex had to acknowledge she was prompt. A moment later she returned. “Dinner’s on the house. Compliments of the owner.” Alex smiled to herself. Of course it was. Rick was scared shitless of crossing anybody from the organization. Alex had been the initial contact; he knew her well. “Well tell Rick I said thank you.” He must have been hiding out in the back. All the better for her.

Cliff stood, and Alex took that as her cue to get up as well. She slid out of the booth and took a moment to adjust her dress that had ridden up. Out of the corner of her eye, Alex caught Cliff watching her intently. She forced a small blush and brushed aside her hair. With a head jerk, her “captor” indicated they would be leaving. Alex followed closely behind him, her eyes trained on his broad back. He fills out that jacket nicely... Alex was forced to stop abruptly outside. The sun had set and the streetlights began flicking on. Cliff swore violently and pushed his hair through his hair. This time, Alex had no trouble knowing what he was thinking.