Author’s note – Tiny Valentines Day Fic, just because.
*********************************************
“Any plans for Valentines Day?”
Miranda rolled her eyes as Cheryl appeared at her desk, “Why would I?”
Cheryl shrugged with a blithe smile.
“I take it you have plans,” Miranda stated amused, especially at the smile Cheryl gave her.
“Matt is taking me for dinner at my favourite restaurant,” she told her friend, “The same one he proposed to me at and then we’ll go home for ice cream.”
“Do not tell me anything else,” Miranda told her friend blandly.
Cheryl laughed, “You know if you gave the signal there would be a line of people looking to date you.”
Miranda shook her head, “I’m not ready yet.”
“You don’t always feel ready,” Cheryl replied, “But sometimes you’ve got to take a chance. Whoever broke your heart…”
“No,” Miranda cut the other woman off, “He never broke my heart, I broke my own heart because I had to leave him for his own good.”
Before Cheryl could say anything, a knock came on the door, Cheryl opened it to find a delivery man standing there carrying a large bunch of roses.
“Looks like Matt is stepping up this year,” Miranda noted.
Cheryl shook her head, “Nope. These are for you.”
“What?”
Miranda took the large bunch of bright red roses and found the card, “To Miranda, the most beautiful woman I have ever known, you are forever in my heart.”
“Is it signed?” Cheryl demanded when Miranda stopped.
Shaking her head, Miranda told her, “It just says ‘All my love’.”
Miranda frowned but didn’t say anything else. She put the flowers in water before leaving the office and heading home for the night. She would investigate who sent them tomorrow and let whoever sent them know that, as much as she appreciated the gesture, it was not appropriate, and the sentiment was not returned.
Stepping outside, Miranda watched Cheryl walk over to her husband and kiss him hello. It made her smile, but also sad because she had that kind of love once and had to leave it.
Shaking herself, she waved goodbye to her friend before she started walking home.
-
Her house was only twenty minutes away from the museum where she had managed to get a job after leaving the Time Masters. It was almost five years since she’d said goodbye to the life she’d known since she was a child and the man who she loved more than she ever thought was possible.
But she had made herself a good life, with a home, job, and friends.
Reaching her house, Miranda frowned confused to see another delivery man at the door. He turned just as she reached it and yet again was a large bunch of roses.
“Oh,” the delivery man stated, “That’s good timing.”
Miranda frowned and opened the door, “You wouldn’t be able to tell me who sent these?”
He shrugged, “Sorry, I just get who they’re going to. If it’s not in the card, then you can call the office tomorrow. Be careful,” he said as he handed her the flowers, “There’s a jewellery box in there too. Which didn’t come from us.”
Miranda frowned but thanked him and headed inside. Putting the flowers down, she took a hold of the small red velvet box nestled amongst the roses.
Opening it, she found a beautiful gold ring with a perfectly solitaire diamond sitting in the centre. Snapping the box shut, Miranda looked for the card. When she found it, Miranda opened the small envelope and read the message.
“All my love,” she read aloud, annoyance filling her, “And whoever you are, you’re going to be on the receiving end of all my training.”
A knock came on the door, and a voice called, “Delivery.”
Frowning Miranda yanked open the door finding someone holding yet another large bunch of red roses, taking them so she could demand how many more of these deliveries she could expect, her voice stalled seeing the man behind them.
“Rip?” she finally breathed.
He gave her a soft smile, “Happy Valentines Day.”
“You sent me the flowers?”
Rip gave a slight nervous shake of his head, “Yes and no. When Gideon realised what day it was, then she set up the flowers, she’s quite the romantic.”
Miranda stepped back, placing the newest bouquet on the table beside the other one and picked up the velvet box.
“What about this?”
Rip bit his lower lip, letting out a soft breath before he opened the box and offered it to her.
“I am hoping you’ll say yes and wear it every day.”
“Are you asking me…” Miranda trailed off before shaking her head, “Rip, the Time Masters will never agree to this.”
“They will never know,” Rip told her, “I promise. Gideon can ensure I can spend time with you without them ever knowing and I know it’s not ideal, but I love you and I miss you.”
Miranda stepped closer to him, “I love you and miss you too but…”
“Trust me,” Rip closed the gap between them, “And marry me, please.”
Taking the box from him, Miranda took the ring and slid it onto her finger, “Yes.”
With a smile, Rip leaned in and kissed her.
When they parted, Miranda smiled, “It looks like I do have plans for Valentines Day.”
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Summary: It's been several months since Rip's encounter with Sapphire And Steel. As he tries to put it behind him, Gideon and Miranda deal with the fallout in their relationship. But the past they think is dead and buried is about to come back to haunt them. Sequel to Sapphire And Steel.
Author’s Note: For @riphuntertimemasterlegend and @incendiaglacies who have both been waiting for this sequel. Hope you enjoy.
The full thing has been written so will be up over the next few days.
*********************************************
Part One
“Are you talking to me yet?” Miranda asked hopefully as Gideon sat curled up on the bed a pillow hugged to her chest. “I didn’t do it to hurt you,” Miranda continued when silence answered her, “You know that, don’t you?”
“Then why?” Gideon demanded, speaking for the first time in three days, “I know I was paying a lot of attention to him, but it was new. You know I love you as much as I always have.”
Sitting at her side Miranda stroked Gideon’s hair, “That’s not why. I know you’ve fallen in love with Rip, so have I and I’m sure his feelings for us were the same. But,” she continued before Gideon could say anything, “He deserves better than us.”
“What?”
Miranda sighed, “We pretend that we got away from Druce but we’re still doing what he taught us. We steal because that’s basically all we know, Gideon. Rip escaped from that world and found a better life. He became a cop despite being raised the same way we were. I won’t let him give it all up.”
Gideon sighed, “So you let him think we used him and everything that happened was a manipulation?”
“It’s for the best,” Miranda told her, “I wish it wasn’t. He’ll get over it and move on.”
Gideon rested her head against her girlfriend’s shoulder, “What now?”
“Now,” Miranda sighed, “We lay low for a while and decide what we want to do.”
“Together?” Gideon turned to look into Miranda’s eyes.
Miranda nodded and kissed her, “Always together.”
They sat in silence for a few moments before Gideon asked, “We can’t go back to the house and we can’t stay in this hotel much longer. Where do you suggest we go?”
“Why don’t we visit some old friends?” Miranda suggested.
Gideon let out a long sigh.
“We need to lay low for a few months,” Miranda reminded her, “Considering Rip knows more about us than anyone, he can find us, and he likely will not be very happy about how things ended, so we shouldn’t give him the opportunity. We can look on it as an extended holiday?”
Smiling Gideon nodded, “That sounds nice.”
Miranda hugged her girlfriend tightly, hoping that Gideon had forgiven her.
*********************************************
Rip ran, dodging people as he chased.
The man ran through the park, so Rip jumped onto the nearest bench, which let him get onto a wall above the thief. Rip leaped forward and tackled him to the ground. Pulling the man to his feet, Rip pushed him to the uniformed officers.
“Read him his rights,” Rip ordered.
Joe West chuckled as he leaned against the car watching, “That was a little vicious.”
“I wasn’t chasing him all day,” Rip replied sharply.
“Technically this is our day off,” Joe reminded him, “Remember that? You’re meant to be helping me pick stuff up to paint the nursery.”
“Well you shouldn’t have parked next to a shop being robbed,” Rip retorted.
Joe rolled his eyes, “Of course, what was I thinking?”
“If you still want help then we should get started,” Rip said walking towards the hardware store.
It was now three months since his encounter with Sapphire and Steel, since he’d been completely stupid falling under their spell and believing in the bond they talked about. He’d received a lot of praise for tracking them down, even if he hadn’t managed to arrest them, because a lot of the stolen items had been recovered. It was praise he knew he didn’t deserve but Rip remained silent and was relieved that the thieves had not decided to tell anyone what had happened. Now the case had been put on hold, since the thieves had disappeared, and Rip had been partnered with Joe West. It was the one of the two good things that came out of the past few months.
The other good thing was the fact Rip had returned from his time in Coast City to be told Zaman Druce had died of a heart attack the night before. Despite the fact he’d been safe from the man for decades, Rip felt relief knowing that he was gone for good and there was no way Rip would ever have to worry about him again.
-
Joe watched his partner as the younger man painted the wall of the nursery with the intense focus that he’d had the past months for pretty much everything. Singh had decided to partner them permanently considering Rip’s success on the Sapphire and Steel case, even if Rip insisted not managing to arrest them meant it wasn’t a success. He’d liked Rip from the moment they met. Rip was smart, he looked at things in an unconventional way which Joe appreciated, and they worked well together.
Joe did what he had with his previous partners by including Rip in his family, whether he wanted to be or not. He had basically guilt-tripped Rip on their day off into help him paint the nursery – which he never thought he’d need ever again.
“Don’t you have a son and son-in-law to do things like this for you?” Rip asked, standing back to admire his work.
Joe chuckled, “Both are busy.”
“I bet,” Rip replied rolling his eyes.
“Thanks for your help,” Joe told him, “I do appreciate it.”
Shrugging Rip said, “I had nothing else to do today.”
“Good to know,” Joe replied, “How are you at home repairs?”
“You couldn’t afford me,” Rip told him, an amused smile touching his lips.
Joe laughed.
“You promised me food for my help,” Rip reminded Joe, “Is that coming at any point?”
Nodding Joe pulled out his phone, “Pizza?”
*********************************************
“Hi,” Nora Dahrk cried happily, hugging Miranda then Gideon tightly when they were led into the lounge where she was waiting, “I’m so happy to see you both.”
Miranda beamed at their friend, “Thank you for giving us a place to stay.”
“Of course. You’re both welcome here whenever you want,” Nora reminded them, “Ray will be ecstatic to see you too.”
Gideon smiled tightly, “Where is he?”
“Playing in the garage with all his toys,” Nora laughed fondly, “I’m going to have to lock it to make sure he comes to his birthday party on Saturday. But he’ll be so happy that you’re both here to celebrate with us.” She pulled them over to the couch, “Now tell me everything that’s happened that means you need a place to stay.”
Gideon took a few steps back, “I think I’ll go see Ray.”
Confused Nora watched Gideon head to Ray’s workshop, turning to Miranda she demanded, “What’s wrong?”
Miranda sighed, “We did something…stupid.”
Nora stared at her for a few seconds before bouncing up and pouring them both a glass of red wine. Handing one to Miranda, she sat beside her again, “Tell me everything.”
Taking a long drink Miranda told her friend about their detective and the past few months.
“So, Gideon is upset by the fact you ended the relationship,” Nora sympathised.
Miranda sighed, “We both fell hard for Rip. But I made the decision alone. Gideon and I have always discussed everything, but I knew how deeply she’d fallen for him. I made the decision to remove him from our lives without her because I didn’t want her to make it.”
“I understand that,” Nora soothed, “And I’m sure she does too.”
Miranda shook her head, tears filling her eyes, “I’m scared she’ll leave. Nora,” she stopped her friend before she could say anything, “Gideon loves me, I know this but she hasn’t been the same the past few months and I’m afraid she’ll decide that what I did means she can’t stay with me.”
Nora wrapped her arm around Miranda’s shoulders, hugging her close. Nora’s father had been a business associate of Druce, whenever they had business together Druce would bring Miranda and Gideon along as companions for Nora. They had become good friends, so when Nora’s father died and Nora inherited everything, she made sure Miranda and Gideon knew they were always welcome.
Whenever they needed to go to ground it was a refuge for them with Nora and the adorable, brilliant Ray, Nora’s husband. Miranda just hoped Gideon would feel better spending some time here with their friends because Miranda couldn’t lose her.
-
Gideon slipped away from Nora and Miranda, heading up the stairs to the room Nora had given them when she’d first taken over the house. She had thought about going to say hello to Ray, but he was such an enthusiastic person and she did adore him, but right now Gideon didn’t want to deal with his cheerful disposition or his concern if she didn’t manage to be as upbeat as he would expect her to be.
She was sad.
Part of her understood why Miranda had ended their relationship with Rip but she was hurt that Miranda hadn’t trusted Gideon to be part of the decision. They had returned to England to let things die down for a while and, although Gideon tried to move past the hurt she felt, their relationship had become strained.
Opening her laptop Gideon began to scroll through some of the websites she liked, a mixture of jewellery and technology, her two favourite things. She flicked to the website that she had been looking at the night before and for the last few days. Finally making a decision that she’d been hesitating over.
With a deep breath, she found her bag and packed her laptop wondering if she would have the strength to say goodbye.
-
“Hey,” Miranda’s voice made her turn, “I thought you were going to see Ray.”
Gideon shrugged, “I changed my mind.”
“What are you doing?” Miranda asked confused to see the bags sitting there.
Shaking her head sadly Gideon sat, she had hoped to have a little more time to get herself together for this conversation.
Miranda took a seat on the bed beside her, “Can you talk to me? Please.”
Sighing Gideon stood and walked to the other side of the room trying not to see how hurt Miranda looked, “I know you were thinking of all of us when you ended our relationship with Rip, but you should have talked to me first.”
“Gideon…”
“You’ve always taken care of me,” Gideon cut her off, “And I love you for that.”
Confused Miranda said, “I love you too.”
“But,” Gideon sighed sadly, “I’ve never had to be responsible for myself and I think it’s time I am,”
Shock and fear covered Miranda’s face, “What do you mean?”
“When I first lost my parents,” Gideon breathed, “I was so afraid, and there you were. My angel. You looked after me and you’ve never stopped but I shouldn’t have let you.”
Tears filled Miranda’s eyes, “Please…”
“I just want to spend some time on my own,” Gideon continued.
Still confused Miranda asked, “Why now? Is this because of Rip.”
“Yes,” Gideon replied, “And no. It has nothing to do with him, it’s the fact that you didn’t trust me enough to make that decision with you.”
Miranda sighed, “I didn’t want you to have to make it. I know how much you adore him.”
“It wasn’t your choice, Miranda,” Gideon cried frustrated, “And I have tried to stop how I feel but I can’t,” she took Miranda’s hands, “I love you but I need to stand on my own just for a little while.”
“How long is a little while?”
Sadness filled Gideon’s eyes, but she didn’t answer the question. Instead she pulled her coat on and picked up her bag. Leaning over she kissed Miranda before pulling away and leaving without a word.
Trying not to cry, Gideon slipped out the house and climbed into the car. Driving away Gideon hoped she was doing the right thing.
Summary: After speaking at a tech conference, Gideon Ryder's new friends are fun and smart, a couple in a loving relationship, so she's surprised by the invitation to join them.
But they're hiding a secret.
Author’s Note: This came from a small idea I had but only became a story thanks to a thought by @incendiaglacies.
Enjoy.
*********************************************
Part One
The bartender placed the cocktail Gideon had ordered in front of her and waited expectantly. She grimaced slightly as she hunted through her bag trying to find her room card so she could put it on her tab.
“Here,” the man sitting just to one side of her spoke up handing the bartender his room card, “Put it on my tab.”
Gideon turned to him and smiled, “Thank you but I don’t need you to get this for me.”
“I know but,” he said, his sharp green eyes crinkling in a smile, “I just thought you looked like you were having a bad day and wanted to do something to make it slightly better. This not a come on, my wife is in the ladies.”
With a sigh she nodded, “Thank you.”
He smiled again and offered his hand, “Rip Hunter. And you’re Gideon Ryder,” he continued before she could ask, “We were at your lecture this afternoon. So impressive the work you’re doing in artificial intelligence.”
“You mean once we managed to get everything working,” Gideon laughed.
Rip nodded, “It wouldn’t be a tech conference if something didn’t go wrong with the equipment.”
With an amused shrug, Gideon chuckled, “Very true. What about you, Mr Hunter? What do you do?”
“Freelance security and IT,” he told her, “And please, it’s Rip.”
Gideon smiled but before she could say anything else a woman’s voice came from behind them.
“Typical, I leave for five minutes and you find the most gorgeous woman in the place to buy a drink for.”
Rip laughed, wrapping his arm around the beautiful woman with dark hair and eyes who quickly kissed him, he smiled, “Gideon, this is my wife Miranda.”
“So nice to meet you,” Miranda grinned, “Loved your lecture earlier. You’ll have to excuse me for a few minutes though, I found a room card on the floor I should take to the reception.”
Gideon grimaced, “Does it say Room 654?”
Miranda nodded.
“I dropped it,” she sighed, smiling in relief when Miranda handed it to her, “Thank you.”
Rip handed Miranda the drink he’d got for her before asking, “Our reservations are in five minutes. Are we having dinner?”
“If you’re hungry,” his wife smiled, “Although, Gideon if you’re not busy why don’t you join us?”
Hesitantly she shrugged, “Are you sure you don’t want to eat alone?”
“Please, I have to talk to him all the time,” Miranda waved, “You are much more interesting, and prettier.”
Rip rolled his eyes, “Thanks darling.”
Miranda blew him a kiss before sliding her arm through Gideon’s and starting her towards the restaurant, “So, tell me more about your work.”
Gideon laughed as Miranda finished the story she was telling, while Rip got them a final drink from the bar. The evening had gone faster than she realised and, despite not looking forward to this conference, Gideon had enjoyed herself.
The couple she’d had dinner with were both smart, understood her work and had such a good relationship bantering back and forth. About twenty minutes later it became clear they were no longer welcome in the bar as the staff started cleaning up around them.
“Come on, darling,” Miranda took her husband’s hand, “You can take advantage of me for the rest of the night.”
Leaning into her Rip smiled, “Tempting offer.”
Gideon smiled wistfully, she hoped one day to find someone who would look at her the way the couple looked at one another.
“Our room is on the same floor as yours,” Miranda said to Gideon, “I want to make sure you get to your room safely.”
Chuckling Gideon allowed the other woman to take a hold of her arm and they walked to the elevator together.
“How about we meet for breakfast?” Miranda suggested as they headed up to their floor.
Surprised Gideon nodded, “I’d like that.”
The bing announced they’d arrived at their floor and Gideon stepped out followed by the couple.
“You know,” Miranda said, “It’s not that late and I’m not tired. How about we have another drink?”
Gideon hesitated, but she wasn’t that tired either and not looking forward to watching the tv alone until she fell asleep so instead smiled, “That sounds nice.”
Miranda beamed, “Fantastic.”
“Let me drop my bag off in my room,” Gideon told her, “And change shoes.”
“Change into anything you want,” Miranda replied, “We are in room 662, just come along when you’re ready.”
With a smile they headed along the corridor leaving her alone. Watching the couple, Gideon admired them both for a moment before heading to her room.
Dropping her bag, she quickly changed into the pair of loose denims and her favourite red t-shirt. Sliding on the soft canvas shoes, thankful to be out of the heels she’d worn all day, Gideon quickly brushed out her hair and checked she looked presentable. Sliding her room key into her back pocket, Gideon grabbed the wine from the minibar in her room and headed out. Reaching the other room, she hesitated for a moment before knocking.
Rip opened the door and motioned her in, “Miranda has a glass of wine waiting for you.”
Gideon was sitting cross-legged on the couch while Miranda and Rip were on the chair, Miranda on her husband’s lap.
“Did I tell you how we met?” Miranda asked, sipping her drink.
“No.”
Miranda smiled at her husband, “It was a game of truth or dare at university. I chose dare, and we ended up tied together trying to drink a bottle of beer. By the end of the night he was mine.”
“You make me sound so easy,” Rip laughed.
With a smirk, Miranda replied, “But you were, my darling.”
Before he could reply his phone began to buzz, “Sorry. It’s mother.”
Gideon frowned confused checking the time.
“She’s several hours ahead of us and a very early riser,” Miranda explained as Rip disappeared into the bathroom to have his conversation.
Sliding onto the couch beside Gideon, Miranda mused, “Can I ask you something?”
“If you like,” Gideon replied intrigued.
Miranda smiled, “What would you do if I kissed you?”
Stunned Gideon glanced to the door Rip had gone through.
“You don’t have to worry about, Rip,” Miranda told her, “We have a very open marriage. Besides, he’ll only be annoyed I asked you first.”
“I…ah…” Gideon stammered.
Miranda gently brushed her hair back, “You are attracted to both of us. I can tell.”
Gideon tried to reply but the other woman gently touched her lips to Gideon’s neck, breathing deeply Gideon’s eyes closed and her head dropped back against the couch as Miranda continued to slide kisses across her skin. A moan escaped Gideon as Miranda’s lips pressed against her own in a soft kiss that deepened quickly. When they parted, Gideon opened her eyes to find Miranda now kissing Rip.
Miranda pulled back from her husband and guided him to Gideon. Not sure why, she allowed him to kiss her too.
Gideon had no idea how this had happened, she’d simply come here for a friendly drink and conversation. When Miranda kissed her Gideon was stunned but, she was attracted to the couple so decided to be spontaneous for once in her life. The kisses, while sweet at first, had become a lot more intense and soon they were undressing one another. Gideon had never been a part of a threesome before, although had fantasised about it a few times.
Miranda took control instantly, pushing her husband towards the bed before she drew Gideon along with her.
“You are so gorgeous,” Miranda murmured to Gideon, as she lay back on the bed beside Rip.
The couple began to kiss every part of Gideon and she lost herself in the sensations of Rip kissing her as Miranda’s lips slid down along her body. The couple continued to kiss and caress her. Gideon was used to being the one in charge during sex, but this time Miranda was the one in control. The couple barely interacted with one another instead both focussed solely on her pleasure.
“Wow,” Gideon lay back trying to catch her breath, “I didn’t think this would happen.”
Miranda chuckled, “How about one more ride?” she kissed Gideon’s lobe, “Rip is still locked and loaded.”
“What about you?” Gideon asked softly.
Miranda shook her head, “I can ride him any night, this is all about you.”
Following Miranda’s instructions Gideon slowly slid onto Rip, moaning in pleasure. Slowly rolling her hips as Rip rested his hands on her waist, and Miranda pressed her body against Gideon’s back, her hands cupping Gideon’s breasts murmuring encouragement in Gideon’s ear. Rip pushed himself up and pulled the two women close, Gideon cried out as her climax hit her with Rip coming a few moments later.
Gideon lay stunned by the evening’s events. Rip leaned over and grabbed a bottle of water, opening it he took a drink before handing it to Miranda. She took a quick drink and passed it to Gideon. Taking a long drink of the cool water Gideon knew she should move and head back to her own room, but she couldn’t quite get up the energy.
Rip and Miranda wrapped their arms around her, and the warmth surrounding her lulled Gideon into a deep sleep.
“Well?” Miranda asked.
Rip checked the woman asleep on the bed beside them, “She’s out. How much did you give her?”
Miranda slid off the bed and started to get dressed, “Enough so she won’t wake up until the morning.”
Pulling on his own clothes, Rip nodded, “We could have done this a lot easier if you’d stuck to the original plan.”
“And you’re telling me you did not enjoy our little tryst?” Miranda smirked, “Because I can rewind the tape.”
He rolled his eyes, “Just get dressed and let’s do what we actually came to do. Or do you not want to get paid?”
“Darling,” Miranda moved to him and rested her hands on his chest, “My way is always much more fun,” stretching up to kiss him quickly she smiled, “Let’s do this.”
The hotel ballroom, set up for the conference, was busy so no one noticed the petite woman leaving the stage area and joining the audience for the presentation.
“Well?”
Miranda rolled her eyes at the demand from the man at her side but replied, “It’s not there. She must have left the information in her room. Also,” she added amused, “She’s gorgeous. If she asks me, I’m leaving you for her.”
Rip ignored her teasing, “If it isn’t here then we need to get into her room somehow.”
“I could seduce her,” Miranda smirked.
“Assuming you’re her type,” Rip reminded her before saying, “Alright, we’ll listen to the presentation then we’ll see where we go from here.”
Miranda smiled, sliding her hand into his as the lights went down, and Gideon Ryder stepped onstage. “See,” she whispered in his ear, “I told you she was gorgeous.”
“Okay,” Rip murmured as he sat at the bar after the conference was over watching Ryder as they had for the past hour, “Lift her room card. I’ll keep the barman here so that she has to come over this side of the bar to get a drink then buy her whatever she wants.”
Miranda smiled and kissed him, “This is why I keep you around. Be charming so she drops her guard.”
“How charming?” Rip asked teasingly.
“Friendly only,” Miranda replied, “I don’t want her trying to take you on the barstool. Not when I’m not here to enjoy it.”
Shaking his head, Rip motioned her to hurry up or she’d miss her chance to steal the keycard. Miranda kissed him before she headed across the room, she smiled speaking generally at people as she moved closer to her target. With ease Miranda lifted the card from Ryder’s bag while she was deep in conversation with other participants if the conference. The moment she had the card, Miranda started out and headed up to the sixth floor. Entering the hotel room, she quickly checked all the places the information could be, frowning to find nothing. Pulling out her phone as she headed back downstairs, Miranda hacked into the hotel computer and released all the rooms they’d reserved except the one on the sixth floor.
Returning to the bar, she smiled to see Rip talking with Ryder. Her guy was good, it was no wonder she’d slept with him less than an hour after they met.
Rip rested his arm around his wife moving her to one side as Gideon was caught on their way to the restaurant by one of the other speakers.
“What are you doing?” Rip asked.
Miranda sighed, “There was nothing in the room. I’m assuming she has the Flash Drive on her.”
“And inviting her to join us for dinner?” Rip demanded.
“We don’t want her leaving the hotel,” Miranda reminded him, “If we keep her with us until closing time, let her go to bed then we check her room without worries.”
Rip smiled proudly, “You left a knockout cannister didn’t you?”
Miranda gave him another quick kiss, “Of course I did. So, when she comes back, we just keep her talking until the bar closes.”
Pressing a kiss to her cheek, Rip murmured softly, “Once we get the information we leave.”
“Shame,” Miranda sighed, “I did keep a room.”
Rip grimaced, “Big bed?”
“King sized,” Miranda chuckled, “We can come back another day to use it.”
Gideon rejoined them before Rip could reply and Miranda swiftly moved them to the restaurant.
Rip smiled as he watched Miranda keep Gideon completely involved in a deep discussion. Miranda was brilliant and had a charm about her that made people open up to her. Rip had fallen for Miranda almost the moment they’d met. They weren’t technically married because neither wanted a paper trail, but they had exchanged vows and rings under the moonlight on the roof of the building they’d met in and were married as far as they were concerned.
He was a good thief, as was Miranda but when they started working together, they were unstoppable. Rip smiled as he watched Miranda flirt with their mark, amused how Gideon blushed in response to Miranda’s compliments. It was a pity they had to steal from her and leave soon because Rip knew it would be fun to see where this went. Rip ensured Gideon wasn’t tempted to leave by ensuring she had a drink and soon it became clear they were no longer welcome in the bar when the staff started cleaning up around them.
“Come on, darling,” Miranda took his hand, “You can take advantage of me for the rest of the night.”
Leaning into her, Rip smiled, “Tempting offer.”
Helping Miranda to her feet, Rip smiled when his wife turned to Gideon, “Our room is on the same floor as yours. I want to make sure you get to your room safely.”
Chuckling Gideon allowed Miranda to take a hold of her arm and they walked to the elevator together.
Rip kept his arm wrapped around Miranda’s waist, confused when she suddenly said, “How about we meet for breakfast?”
Gideon smiled, “I’d like that.”
When they reached their floor, Gideon stepped out followed by the couple.
“You know,” Miranda said surprising Rip, “It’s not that late and I’m not tired. How about we have another drink?”
Gideon hesitated, for a moment before she nodded, “That sounds nice.”
Miranda beamed, “Fantastic.”
“Let me drop my bag off in my room,” Gideon told her, “And change shoes.”
“Change into anything you want,” Miranda replied, “We are in room 662, just come along when you’re ready.”
Taking Rip’s hand, Miranda started them towards their room. Rip held his tongue until they entered the room, and the door was closed.
“What are you doing?” he demanded, “We had a plan.”
Miranda shrugged, “I thought of a better one.”
“A better one?” Rip snapped annoyed, “Miranda, our best idea is to use the knockout gas on her and then check her room for the Flash Drive. That means we can leave cleanly. Inviting her here risks our escape plan.”
She stepped closer to him, a pout on her face and her fingers slowly sliding up his arms before she wrapped her arms around his neck.
“I know, darling but,” she kissed his cheek before whispering in his ear, “I really, really want to have sex with her. Don’t you?”
Rip frowned at her, “And you think she wants…”
“Of course she does,” Miranda chuckled, “She’s interested in both of us, trust me darling. I can tell.”
The pout she gave him did exactly what she knew it would and Rip caved.
“Fine,” he sighed, “We’ll go with your plan.”
Miranda kissed him, pulling him close, “It’ll be fun. Set your phone for forty minutes, then I’ll ease her in.”
Rip rolled his eyes, “You drive me crazy. You know that.”
Kissing him once more Miranda smiled, “I do and I also know you love it.”
*********************************************
Rip let out a moan of satisfaction as Gideon slid off him and dropped to lie at his side with Miranda on her other side. He had to admit Miranda had been completely right about Gideon, she had been more than willing to have sex with them. Reaching into the bag beside the bed Rip grabbed a bottle of water, opened it, and took a quick drink. Handing it to Miranda he watched her take a drink before slipping the sedative into the bottle. Gideon took a long drink and, when Miranda took the bottle back, lay back closing her eyes. Rip and Miranda slid to cuddle the woman, surrounding her in warmth so that the sedative worked quickly.
“Well?” Miranda asked after several minutes.
Rip checked Gideon, “She’s out. How much did you give her?”
Miranda slid off the bed and started to get dressed, “Enough so she won’t wake up until the morning.”
Pulling on his own clothes, Rip nodded, “We could have done this a lot easier if you’d stuck to the original plan.”
“And you’re telling me you did not enjoy our little tryst?” Miranda smirked, “Because I can rewind the tape.”
He rolled his eyes, “Just get dressed and let’s do what we actually came to do. Or do you not want to get paid?”
“Darling,” Miranda moved to him and rested her hands on his chest, “My way is always much more fun,” stretching up to kiss him quickly she smiled, “Let’s do this.”
After they both put their gloves on, Rip lifted Gideon off the bed and rested her gently on the couch wrapped in a sheet. Miranda quickly tidied the room, stripping the bed and remaking it with fresh linen she’d stolen earlier just in case. Rip cleaned away their fingerprints before bagging all rubbish ensuring nothing had accidentally fallen behind any furniture. Especially making sure the condoms they’d used were all accounted for.
“Clean?” Miranda asked as she grabbed their bags.
“Yes,” he handed her the rubbish bag before lifting the unconscious woman into his arms, Miranda had her clothes, shoes, and room key.
She opened the door and checked the corridor, “Let’s go.”
Quickly and quietly they headed to Gideon’s room, Miranda opened the door and allowed Rip inside. After Miranda pulled back the sheets, Rip placed the sleeping Gideon in the centre of the bed. He removed their sheet before covering her up properly and retrieved the cannister of knockout gas. Turning to hand his wife the sheet to add to her bag he found her standing staring Gideon.
“What?” he demanded.
“She’s so pretty when she’s asleep,” Miranda mused.
Rip rolled his eyes, “Will you focus. We need to find the Flash Drive and get out of here.”
Miranda nodded and started going through the room, finding the Flash Drive inside the handbag Gideon had carried with her all day.
“Got it,” she smirked.
Rip nodded and grabbed the bag. He moved to his wife’s side and wrapped his arm around her.
“It’s a shame,” Miranda sighed, “She seemed quite lonely. I hate that we’re doing this to her.”
Rip pressed a kiss to her temple, “You know the rules, darling. Never get emotionally involved with the mark. No matter how good they are in bed.”
Shaking her head, Miranda gently pressed a kiss to Gideon’s forehead smiling when Rip followed suit. Placing the room key on the bedside table they left, knowing they’d left no trace of themselves, other than in Gideon’s memory.
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Summary: When Detective Rip Hunter is given the task of tracking down the notorious jewel thieves Sapphire and Steel he has no idea how it's going to take over his life.
All he wants is to put them in jail while they want to play with him.
In more ways than one.
Author’s Note: This was a small idea I had that started out as a quick fic that suddenly blossomed into a much longer fic.
There will be some sex scenes later on and I apologise now because I'm not great at writing those types of scenes.
Anyway, hope you enjoy and more will be up soon as I have a few chapters already written.
*********************************************
Part One
The envelope sat on the breakfast bar when Sara walked into the kitchen. It had Rip’s name on it in neat script but was still sealed.
“Aren’t you going to open your mail?” she asked the man standing washing dishes.
Rip glanced over at her, “No.”
Rolling her eyes, Sara picked up the dishtowel and started to dry for him. It was never intentional for her to live with Rip. When she moved to Central City, her dad had asked Rip to keep an eye out for her, which he did. They met up for coffee every so often and she knew he would always be there if she needed help. Then the moron above her managed to flood Sara’s crappy apartment making it even more crappy. Rip had a spare room which he’d offered to let her use and Sara had now been staying in it for the past three months. Even though her apartment had now been fixed.
“Why aren’t you opening the letter?” Sara demanded after several minutes, “You’re a cop. I thought that came with an inability not to snoop into everyone’s business.”
Rip levelled an annoyed stare at her, which never worked since she had grown up with a cop who could do the same glare.
“I already know who it’s from,” Rip replied, “And I am not going to give them the satisfaction.”
Sara frowned confused.
They continued doing the dishes in silence for several minutes before Sara let out an annoyed cry.
“Who sent the letter?”
Rip shrugged, “It’s one of my cases.”
Sara rolled her eyes, “Rip, come on give me some actual information because this is making me more curious.”
Finishing the final plate, Rip dried his hands and picked up the envelope handing it to Sara.
“Open it.”
Confused, Sara used the knife she was holding and sliced open the envelope before pulling out a Christmas card with two penguins kissing under the mistletoe. At the cute cheery card Sara became even more bemused. Opening it she read the message;
Detective Rip Hunter,
Merry Christmas,
Looking forward to playing with you,
Sapphire & Steel
“Who the hell are ‘Sapphire and Steel’?” she asked bemused.
Rip sighed, plucking the card out her hands and tossing it onto the breakfast bar.
“They are my latest case,” Rip told her.
Sara’s forehead wrinkled in confusion, “Do you want to run that past me again? I know Dad never got Christmas cards from the criminals he was chasing.”
Rip opened the fridge and pulled out two beers, handing Sara one before opening his own. Taking a long drink, he leaned against the counter.
“Sapphire and Steel are the nicknames two jewel thieves have somehow become known as,” Rip explained, “They’re notorious and have managed to avoid being caught for years. I was handed the case when Detective Perkins retired. I’m the third lead detective on the case.”
Sara mused on this, “Okay.”
“He told me that they liked to send him cards at Christmas and on his birthday,” Rip continued, “Their way of letting him know they’re out there.”
“So, they’re telling you they know you’ve taken over the case,” Sara chuckled.
Rip nodded, “Precisely. And I’m not playing.”
Christmas went by quietly but on New Year’s Eve, Rip arrived home from the station to find a box addressed to him waiting on his doorstep. Knowing exactly who had sent it to him, Rip opened the bin sitting at the side of the building and dropped it in.
Smiling he headed inside to change for the party he was going to, but it was New Year and Rip had promised his girlfriend he’d go. It was quiet in the house with Sara home in Star City for the holidays. Despite reluctantly letting her use his spare room after the apartment disaster, he’d become used to her presence. It turned out that Sara was a good roommate to have since she had grown up with a cop, so understood his shifts. They communicated mostly via text or notes as they were rarely in the house at the same time. When their paths did cross, they didn’t get in each other’s way and got along fairly well. They also both ensured there was always food in the fridge and made sure the house was always clean.
Jumping in the shower, Rip closed his eyes as the water cascaded down over him before quickly washing. Shutting off the water he grabbed a towel and headed into his room to get dressed pulling on the black denims and light blue shirt he’d set out.
Hearing his phone buzz in the other room, Rip frowned when he passed the box that he’d just thrown out sitting on the dining room table.
“What?” he answered his phone sharply.
“It’s me,” Caitlin said, “Were you expecting someone else?”
“Sorry,” Rip winced, “Just…never mind. Is there something wrong?”
“No,” she assured him, “I’m just calling to let you know you don’t need to pick me up. Cisco is going to give me a lift, so I’ll see you there.”
“Okay,” Rip replied, “I’ve got the wine and I’m almost ready to head out the door.”
“Of course you are,” Caitlin laughed, “I’ll see you soon.”
Hanging up Rip frowned at the box sitting on the table. This meant that not only were they watching him, but they’d been in his house.
Perkins had warned him, but only about cards never presents. Grabbing the bottle of wine for the party, Rip decided he was not letting them get to him and ignored the box. He’d bin it again when he got home.
“He’s not opening our present,” Gideon gave an exaggerated pout.
Miranda laughed as they watched the detective in charge of finding them leave his house, dressed nicely carrying a bottle of wine.
“He will,” Miranda assured her, “Give him time and he’ll get curious about what we’re sending him. All cops are the same.”
Gideon watched Detective Rip Hunter climb into his car and leave the driveway before turning to her partner, “Are we putting the cameras in now?”
Miranda grinned at her, “Yes,” at Gideon’s smile, Miranda kissed her, “He’s far enough away. Let’s go.”
Sliding out the car, Miranda waited for Gideon to disable the alarm system before opening the door. For a cop it had been surprisingly easy to get a copy of his keys. Walking into the house, Miranda looked around thoughtfully.
“Neat freak,” she mused, “How like a cop.” Turning to Gideon she grinned, “Let’s do this.”
It took them about ten minutes to set up Gideon’s surveillance system. They then wandered through the house looking through all of Rip’s things. Studying the man who taken over from Perkins, so they had all the information they needed.
“He’s going to be gone for a while,” Gideon said with a seductive smile, leaning against his bedroom door, “We could…”
“No,” Miranda cut her off, “We’re not leaving any evidence we were here.”
“Spoilsport,” Gideon pouted.
Miranda wrapped her arms around Gideon, “We’re going to have a lot of fun with him. Don’t get overexcited.”
Chuckling Gideon lifted the picture they’d found of their new friend, “He is nice to look at. Don’t you think?”
“He is,” Miranda agreed studying the photo, “His eyes are kind, he looks as intelligent as the reports say and I like the beard. The last two were so clean shaven, they didn’t fit the rugged detective look.”
“I wouldn’t kick him out of bed,” Gideon said.
Miranda’s eyes lit up with an idea
Gideon asked, “What?”
“Miller was gay, Perkins married and…” she grimaced, “Old.” Studying the photo again, Miranda smirked, “Are you following my train of thought?”
Gideon grinned, “Definitely,” she sighed musing, “We can have a lot of fun with him.”
Miranda chuckled, “And we’re going to. But….”
“There’s always a but,” Gideon sighed.
“Finesse, darling,” Miranda reminded her sliding arms around Gideon, “If we push too hard at the beginning he’ll break quickly. We watch and play with him a little first before getting to the real fun stuff.”
Gideon smiled mischievously.
“Miller quit and Perkins retired,” Miranda reminded her, “Neither got anywhere near us. Let’s see how well Hunter will do.”
*********************************************
Caitlin smiled amused when Rip slid into the seat across from her after he gave her a quick kiss hello, “Only ten minutes late. That has to be a personal record.”
Rolling his eyes, Rip picked up his menu, “I did warn you when we started seeing each other that these things happen.”
“Should I ask what actually happened to make you late?” Caitlin said, “Or will I get the reply ‘police business’ as always?”
At her teasing he smiled, “Just had to finish some paperwork before Captain Singh decided to demote me to traffic duty.”
Caitlin shrugged slightly, “At least you’d have a proper workday.”
“Wasn’t I the one waiting for two hours last month when you had to finish an experiment?” Rip asked teasingly.
“Now that was an extremely important experiment,” Caitlin replied with the hint of a smile.
Their waiter arrived and they ordered their meals, Rip taking a drink of wine Caitlin had ordered for them. They’d been seeing each other for about six months now. Neither were looking for a relationship at the time, and both were initially reluctant to start anything considering how much time their jobs took up. But Cisco, who had introduced them, just rolled his eyes and told them to not be stupid.
Rip was glad they had started dating, Caitlin was sweet, smart, they had similar interests and he always had fun when he was with her.
“Do you think she’s right for him?” Gideon asked as she and Miranda sat in a nearby booth watching their Detective with the woman he was dating.
Miranda sipped her wine, “I think she seems intelligent and kind. I don’t think it will last but she’s fine for now.”
Gideon chuckled, “I like her. It’s a pity we’re going to ruin their date night. But I suppose we can make it up to him in some way.”
Miranda motioned the nearby waitress over and paid their cheque. As they were getting ready to leave, a smile touched Miranda’s face.
“What are you thinking?” Gideon asked at the mischievous look.
“I have an idea,” she said, “Wait for me in the car.”
Gideon nodded, brushing her lips against Miranda’s before she left the restaurant, taking a quick look back at their detective who was obliviously having dinner with his girlfriend. Sliding into the driver’s seat, she waited for Miranda to appear.
“Well?” she demanded the moment the other woman was in the car.
“I arranged for a bottle wine to be delivered to the table just before he gets the call about our latest escapade,” Miranda smirked.
Gideon laughed, “I love it. Let’s go and pick up my new necklace.”
Rip chuckled as Caitlin finished the story about one of her co-workers while they waited for their dessert.
“Sir,” a waiter arrived with a bottle of wine making Rip frown.
“We didn’t order another bottle,” Rip told him.
The man nodded, “A lady sent it earlier tonight with her compliments for your dessert. Said you would know who it came from.”
Before he could answer, Rip’s phone buzzed at his side. Automatically glancing down he saw the alert about the robbery and the wine suddenly made sense.
“We don’t want it,” Rip stated coldly before turning to Caitlin, “I have to go. There’s been a robbery.”
She nodded, “Do you want me to bring dessert to yours?”
Rip sighed, “As tempting as that sounds, this could take a long time. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
He leaned over to kiss her goodbye stopping when she caught his hand.
“Rip, you can tell me what that was with the wine,” she reminded him.
Giving her a small smile and a quick kiss, he nodded, “I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Cisco?” Rip called as he walked into the jewellery store, “What do we have?”
“Lock was picked, CCTV was turned off,” Cisco Ramon, the CCPD’s tech and cyber genius listed appearing at Rip’s side, “Safe was hacked and they got away with a tidy sum in uncut diamonds, some earrings, a few watches and a sapphire necklace that was being cleaned for the exceedingly wealthy Mrs Worthington which I have been told, repeatedly by the manager, is worth a fortune.”
“It was Coburn and Ryder,” Rip told him.
Cisco frowned, “How do you know by simply walking in the door? Are you psychic now?”
At the amused question Rip rolled his eyes. “They let me know at dinner.”
Confusion filled the younger man’s eyes, “I thought you and Caitlin…”
“We were,” Rip grimaced, “We were waiting for dessert when a bottle of wine was brought over from a woman who said I’d know who sent it. Then I got your message about the robbery.”
Cisco let out a whistle, “They…”
“Okay, let’s get to work,” Rip said determinedly, “I’m going to catch those two and throw away the key.”
For @oasis-wasteland Happy Birthday! Enjoy another snippet from the forever unwritten Hunterburnship college verse!
The door opened and Miranda immediately woke up, squinting at the figure standing in the doorway. “Gideon?”
She sniffled. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were here. I’ll go.”
Beside her, Rip began to stir and also woke up. “Gideon?” he whispered.
“Sorry,” Gideon said again. “I’ll leave. Let you two...”
“We weren’t doing anything,” Rip said hastily.
“Only sleeping,” Miranda said, trying to soothe Rip’s roommate.
“Oh.”
“What’s wrong?” asked Rip.
“I had another nightmare,” Gideon said sheepishly. “I just wanted to cuddle. But I’ll go back to bed.”
“Don’t be silly,” said Miranda, holding out her hand. “Come here.”
Gideon looked at them both and Rip just shrugged, hardly ever understanding his girlfriend. Slowly, she took a step forward and Miranda tugged her into bed.
“There you go, make yourself comfortable.”
Gideon snuggled in between the two of them, curling up against Rip’s chest. Miranda smiled softly at the sight. When Eve had warned her just how close Rip Hunter was with his roommate and not to take him up on his offer of a date, Miranda had never suspected how sweet the other woman was.
She wasn’t jealous or harsh. She was a complete sweetheart, only nagging Rip and often agreeing with Miranda. And she was absolutely gorgeous too. Sure, Miranda had seen the way she looked at her boyfriend, but she’d also seen the looks Gideon had thrown her way too.
Miranda snuggled in with them and wrapped her arms around Gideon, holding hands with Rip. He smiled at her over his best friend, kissing Gideon’s forehead and Miranda’s hand.
Miranda smiled. It was only a matter of time before they realized what was in front of them and accepted a proper relationship between the three of them. Until then, Miranda could wait.
