He tried listening in on the conversations, faintly hearing Scott’s ‘business’ tone. Having taken over their father as CEO of Tracy Industries, Scott had to see to all of the executive decisions alongside his uncles, and consistently meet with people to discuss business ventures. How Scott was able to balance Tracy Industries, International Rescue and look after his family, Virgil will never understand. He supposes Scott reverting back to his old Air Force routine gives him some peace of mind. Virgil was about to turn away and return to the beautiful world of sleep, before he heard a feminine voice. It wasn’t as aristocratic as Penelope’s, nor as blunt as Kayo’s. The voice certainly lacked the accent both had. It wasn’t his Grandma, whose booming voice could wrangle any kid from anywhere. He supposed getting out of bed to investigate wouldn’t be too bad. Besides, his body yearned for the sweet nectar that was coffee. 

Rubbing his face, Virgil slowly but surely made his way down the hall. Rounding the corner, he found Scott sitting in the sunken lounge looking up at a hologram of the mysterious woman. In his sleepy gaze, all he saw was blue light, no distinguishable features. At the sound of his footfalls drawing closer, Scott turned his gaze and smiled. 

“Morning sleepyhead.” Scott hummed, earning a groan from Virgil. Words were too hard this early. 

“Wow, he really is a sleepy bear.” The feminine voice echoed, and Virgil instantly perked awake. Looking up at the hologram, he found Vani staring back at him with a playful smirk. 

“Vani, hey-” Virgil quickly greeted, before running his hand over his hair to tame the frizz. “Everything okay?” With the way he suddenly regained wakefulness, Virgil didn’t need coffee anymore. It always was the case with Nirvana - she was a shot of espresso.

“I’m well Virgil, just asking Scott for a favour.”

“To which I’m trying to negotiate with our darling Nirvana.” Scott countered. “That’s what you call negotiating? No wonder you got arrested by the GDF.”

“Hey that Janis was a real pain in the ass-” 

“Scott, I need this. I don’t ask for much.” Vani pleaded, looking down at her friend. It was true - Vani rarely admitted she needed help. And for his brother to deny the request stirred something within Virgil. 

“What do you need, Vani?” Virgil interjected, walking down to the table and looking up at her. Meeting his gaze, she smiled softly down at him and Virgil felt his heart skip a beat. 

“Remember that building that was burnt down, potentially a front for an underground crime ring?” Of course he did - it was the first time in years he had seen Nirvana, and took his breath away as she always did. Had he not pushed for her to come home, he would’ve lost her again. Nodding, he prompted her to continue. “Well, I was right. Not surprising, I always am. After much reconnaissance with Penelope and Kayo, we’ve identified who it most likely is.” Shifting to the side, Vani’s projection showcased a man with equal menace to the Hood, but a more ice cold appearance. “Alexander Montgomery. If we’re talking about big bads, this guy is their leader. Taking him down will create a domino effect of seizing illegal dangerous goods, stop smaller crime rings, and arrest hundreds of lackeys in his employ. And we have an opportunity to grab him.”

“So let’s do it.” Virgil agreed, turning to Scott. “What’s the issue?”

“The issue is the opportunity itself.” Scott admitted as he stood. Bringing up another display, Scott swung it over to his brother. “It’s the annual Global Aeronautics Gala. The one Tracy Industries is invited to every year.” 

“I was trying to convince Scott to let me go with him as a plus one, so I can get cozy with Alexander and arrest him.” Vani interjected. Virgil didn’t know what irked him more - the idea of Vani throwing her safety to the wind, trying to lower a criminal mastermind’s guise. Or the fact that his brother would be taking her out to a gala, like a date. The latter, definitely the latter. Vani was a strong, independent woman. Who Scott clearly didn’t deserve. 

“I’ll go with you.” Virgil volunteered without second thought, earning him a confused look from his brother, and an affectionate one from Vani.

“Virg, there’s two problems with that. One, it’s addressed to the CEO. You’re not even in the building.” Scott began. 

“We can always argue that you fell sick, and I’m taking your place.” Virgil countered.

“Fine, but my second point is that if this goes south quickly, then we risk the wellbeing of those guests, employees and you two.”

“I won’t let that happen Scott.” Vani vowed. “I’ll look after him.” But who would look after you, Virgil pondered. Turning to face Virgil as Scott thought to himself, Vani looked at him. “So, you got a tuxedo?”

-o💚O🖤o-

Virgil couldn’t remember the last time he wore a suit. Probably when he used to join his dad on business events with his brothers. Staring at himself in the mirror, Virgil stuck his tongue out trying to figure out how to weave his bowtie. After many failed attempts, Virgil debated using the clip-on bowtie that Gordon gave him. But then again, he doubts a room full of engineers and executives would appreciate a goldfish bowtie. The door to the hotel room opened behind him, as Vani entered. 

“I still refuse to believe a man who knows multiple types of knots, and is an aeronautical engineer, can’t tie a bowtie.” Glancing at her in the mirror, Virgil slowed his movements and watched in awe. Emerald fabric framed her beautifully and suddenly Virgil remembered why he loved green. Her wild chestnut curls were neatly tucked back, with two defined ringlets gracing her cheeks. “Need some help?” 

Turning on his heel, he walked to her. “I know when I’m defeated.” He chuckled, placing the tie fabric in her hand, fingers grazing. Eyes meeting hers, Virgil smiled softly. “You’re beautiful.”

“Thank you.” She smiles, glancing over him. “You clean up quite nicely too.” Threading the green fabric around him and drawing herself closer, Vani began weaving it into a bowtie. While her gaze was trained on the tie, Virgil watched her. He smiled a little at the way her mouth was parted slightly, twisting into shapes as if mouthing instructions. He loved watching her eyes move with her mind as her hands worked swiftly, securing the fabric. “All done.” She gently brushed the suit jacket, hands lingering on his chest. 

“I love when you do that.” Virgil said, eyes lifting from her lips into her gaze. 

“Do what?” She looked up.

“Move your mouth while you’re laser focused on something, as if talking through what you’re doing.” Chuckling at the way Vani instantly closed her mouth, he brought his hand up to her cheek and stroked gently. “Don’t be embarrassed, it's cute. Especially with the way your two front teeth peek out from under your lip while you’re doing so.” Rolling her eyes, Vani chuckled and looked up. 

“Is this suit making you more of a gentleman?”

“Are you implying I was never one to begin with?”

“On the contrary, you’re one of the few good men in this world. And I get to have you all to myself tonight.” Vani hummed leaning up, and Virgil found himself leaning down instinctively. 

“I have you all to myself tonight as well.” Virgil muttered, his hands resting on her hips, slowly pulling her close. “Is that why you volunteered to take Scott’s place?” Vani arched forward, smirking a little at the way Virgil’s lips twisted in slight annoyance. 

“I simply volunteered because Scott was hesitant on having your back.”

“He would’ve warmed up to the idea. I would’ve convinced him.”

“And how would you have done that?” Virgil grumbled. He knew Vani and Scott were close, both being Air Force pilots. A mischievous smirk spread on her lips.

“A girl can’t reveal all of her secrets.”

“Still, he wouldn’t be able to protect you if something went wrong. Scott sometimes acts too recklessly.” Virgil declared. Quirking an eyebrow, Vani looked at the man before her. It was unlike Virgil to fault his brothers. He’d rather get punched in the face. 

“Are you doubting his ability to protect me?”

“Yes.” Virgil admitted too quickly. But before she could open her mouth, he argued leaning in. “No one could ever look after you the way I know I can.”

-o💚O🖤o-

“Virgil Tracy and Claire Kodak, Tracy Industries.”

A brief pause as the vendor looked at the tablet, a frown on their face. “The invitation was addressed to the CEO, Scott Tracy.”

“My brother unfortunately fell ill, and asked me to step in. Was there no amendment, if not a note added?” Virgil tilted his head, an air of authority in his action. It seemed to spook the vendor, as he started to frantically scan the ticket. 

“Apologies Mr Tracy, the amendment was made last night.” The vendor sighed, relaxing his shoulders.

“No harm, no foul.” Virgil gave a small smile.

“Enjoy your night.” Nodding in acknowledgement, Virgil made his way into the main hall with a lovely woman on his arm. 

“Scott should let you do more liaising for Tracy Industries,” Vani - Claire - began. “You’re a natural.”

“My heart is pounding in my chest.” Virgil huffed, coming to a halt just by the east pillar.

“You’re okay, Virgil.” Vani looked at him, gently squeezing his arm. “You’re doing great.”

“You do this all the time?” Virgil looked at the woman beside him. 

“Every now and then, it’s fun playing dress up.” She mused. 

“Are you often…alone?” Virgil asked. Was it to see if Vani was safe during these reconnaissance missions, or to note any other admirers Virgil would have to face? Not that he was jealous.

“Depends on the person I’m tracking.” Vani replied vaguely. Live orchestral music filled the hall, many patrons moving to the centre. 

“Shall we dance?” Virgil held out a hand, and wore a sheepish smile. 

“I’d like that very much, it gives me an opportunity to scan the crowds better.” Vani hummed, taking his hand. 

“Oh, of course.” Virgil murmured, as he guided Vani to the centre, giving her a brief spin and letting the emerald dress shimmer against the marble floors. Placing his hand on her waist, Virgil held her hand and guided her in a practiced waltz. The scent of her perfume; floral and tart encased him. While her gaze flitted around the room, hazel eyes moving like hummingbirds, his gaze remained on her. The only thing that mattered in that hall. 

“You dance quite well for an engineer.” Vani smiled up at him as she returned her focus.

“You forget I did ballet.” Virgil smirked. 

“Then you automatically dance better than all the other men I’ve had to work undercover with.”

Other men? A sudden sour taste filled Virgil’s mouth. Did they hold her just like this? Feel her warmth against them? Get to revel in the smell of her hair, smile at how the tropical scent suited her so well?

“And do they keep you safe?”

“They do, Adam especially.” Adam? The use of a first name, said so casually - why did it make him agitated? Focus, Virgil. 

“I’m glad to hear.” Virgil forced a brief smile, his grip tightening slightly on her hip. Not to hurt but to…claim.“You and Adam work together a lot?” He asked a bit too pointedly. Vani, hiding her knowing smirk, looked at him with an innocent face. 

“Recently, yes. We know each other from our Air Force days.” Seems Vani attracts pilots like honey attracts flies, Virgil thought. 

“Would you say you’re,” Virgil pulled her to his chest, the gap between them growing smaller. “…close?” 

“If I didn’t know better Virgil, I would say that you’re jealous of me being with another man.” Vani teased, batting her eyes.

“And if I was?” Virgil tilted his head, as he took her hand and spun her to his chest. Her back molded nicely against him, one hand remained on her waist as the other held her hand softly.

Looking amongst the crowd, Vani hummed. “I would tell you that you have nothing to worry about. He’s busy with Spectrum, and I International Rescue. Besides, he couldn’t handle me.” Looking over her shoulder, she met his brown eyes. “Could you?”

“I’d like to think I could.” Virgil played along.

“I’m not exactly easy.”

“I never wanted easy.” His hand moved closer over her belly, pulling her closer if possible. He got a thrill as she unknowingly arched back, leaning against him. Her; siren eyes he could look into for hours, parted lips he ached to kiss. 

“And what is it that you want?” Vani whispered between them. 

“You.” Virgil breathed. Eyes softening, Vani’s playful nature left her. “Ever since I first saw you. In the snow; skin flushed, snowflakes peppering your cheeks and hair. You were just…radiant.” Virgil continued. “I know you may not believe it - but my feelings for you are genuine. And the idea of another man so much as touching you - no, near you - drives me insane. Call it obsessive, but tonight was the perfect opportunity to get you alone. I’ve missed you.” 

Everything around them began to soften; the music crescendoed and the talking died down. Vani had never felt so open, exposed, in any of her missions. And yet, she didn’t fret. Because she was in the safest place she could be - in Virgil’s arms. He’d make sure of it.

“I missed you too.” Vani admitted. Virgil’s gaze softened as she spun to face him, his hands not moving nor loosening their hold. “I thought I was the only one.”

“You’ve never been alone.” Virgil assured, his hand cradling her cheek and stroking over with his thumb. Bowing her head slightly, and looking away shyly, a blush crept up on her cheeks. Virgil was transported back to that Kansas Christmas so many years ago. 

Just before Vani could give an answer, her eyes caught sight of a figure in the distance. One that stood out amongst the rest. And yet, he was trained to hide in plain sight. As she met his gaze, Vani’s face fell into one of shock, confusion. The sight had Virgil frowning and following her gaze, only to see a man staring back at them. 

“Vani-”

“Virgil, stay here.” Pulling away, Vani made her way towards the man, who suddenly spun and sprinted out at the last second. Concerned patrons turned their attention to the sudden disturbance, Vani weaving expertly amongst them as she chased the man out of the hall. He had ducked into a closing elevator, giving her an icy look as the doors closed just before she could stop them. Glancing to where the screen illuminated their destination, she ran to the stairwell, ignoring Virgil calling out for her. 

Climbing flights of stairs, Vani mindlessly travelled up the thirteen floors. It was him. She refused to let him go. At the sight of the large bold numbers reading ‘13’, Vani came to a slow. Eyes dipping to the foot of the door, she watched the gap for shadows crossing. Nothing. Drawing her gun from her garter belt and aiming it up, Vani breached the door and looked around. As she spun to her right, she saw the man at the end of the hallway. The dark night and building lights illuminated the outline of his bein,  as he stood before the large window overlooking the city. Holding herself steady, Vani took tentative steps towards the man, scanning over his form. 

Shaved temples on either end of a mop of shaggy brown curls. A mosaic of aged, thickened skin from years of torture and unwanted invasion, scattered across his head and face. The most notable was a large sliver down over his forehead, eye and cheek. What would’ve been beautiful green turned white and pale. It made his presence all the more daunting. And that was excluding his 6’5” build. 

“Where is he, Slicom?” Vani growled a little. But he didn’t answer, simply tilted his head to the side. A quick darting of his eyes just over her shoulder, turned her attention to the approaching footfalls. Hurried, they’re about to strike. Before the figure drew too close, Vani swiveled on her heel and braced her hand against the man’s shoulder, pressing the barrel of her gun into his stomach and firing thrice. A quick glance saw another man approaching. With all her might, Vani swung the deadweight man into the approaching one, and watched them barrel. Before the second man could even react, a bullet had pierced his skull between his eyes. 

Going to stand, a thick arm suddenly wrapped around her neck, and the other twisting her arm in a hold painful enough for her to surrender the gun. Glancing up, she saw Slicom’s hardened gaze. Only Slicom would have that advantage over her. Gasping for air, she thrashed as a third man approached with a needle. No! Not again! Violently twisting her side and against her body’s protest, Vani elbowed Sli’s ribs with as much force as she could muster. Earning a grunt, his grip loosened and opened an opportunity for her to throw her head back and collide with his nose. The victorious crunch of bone snapping and a damning roar, she freed herself and charged the third man. Dodging the swing of his arm, she twisted the offensive arm and pierced his own neck with the syringe, plunging down the sedative and letting him fall. Drawing her blade from the garter, she charged Slicom as he cradled his nose, trying to orientate himself. As he looked up at her,  she threatened to pierce skin on his neck. “One move is all it takes.”

She was met with the chilling sensation of metal against her tricep, just before the junction of her arm and chest. Quirking an eyebrow at Vani, Slicom watched her with a teasing yet calculating look. As if he was echoing her own words. While she could strike his neck, one dangerous flick from him could sever her brachial artery and nerve, and render her immobile. They reached a stalemate. Blood trickling down his face, he watched her coolly as she glared at him angrily. 

Loud clapping and joyful laughter echoed through the room. But the laugh brought anything but joy. Glancing to her side, Alexander Montgomery approached with a wide manic smile at the sight before him. “Beautiful!” He clasped his hands together. “Poetic; well worth the wait. You really had me on the edge of my seat Nirvana.” Drawing his steps closer, he scanned over both of the operatives. “You’ve certainly improved, grown into quite the killer.”

“I’m not a killer.” Vani glared. 

Alex quirked an eyebrow, glancing at the three men behind him, limp and lifeless. “I think they would argue otherwise.” Standing before Vani and Slicom, Alex looked between them before his gaze turned on Vani. “I should’ve known you’d eventually find me.”

“You weren’t exactly hiding.”

“Maybe that was a part of the plan. And what was yours? To arrest me, and finally put an end to what I’ve built?” Alex watched her predatorily. 

“You’re not one to dance around, sp when are you getting to the point?” Vani growled, her eyes moving to him.

“You’re right, I prefer the direct approach.” Alex lifted his hand and signalled someone in the background. A man with a large build approached, carrying another over his shoulder. No. “However, I don’t think your companion appreciated the point I made. All 5mL worth of phenobarbital.” This asshole drugged him- 

“You want me to surrender.”

-oOo-

As Thunderbird 2 entered the hangar and powered down, Virgil didn’t even bother with doing post-flight checks. He just needed out. “Nothing personal, Girl.” He assured the specialised craft, as he ran his hand over her interior hull, making his way down. As he disembarked, his feet seemed to carry him to the service elevator, straight to the villa. A routine that was usually engrained in his being, that brought him a sense of control, was merely perceived as a barrier, a nuisance.  Staring ahead at the metal doors as the elevator drew him up, Virgil swayed and counted the seconds, the paces it would take to get to where he wanted to. Coming to a halt, the doors hissed open and he shot through. It took him 23 paces, to reach the end of the hallway and press on the door handle. As it swung open, his eyes fell on the woman before him. 

Glancing up from her book, Vani’s smile soon disappeared as she saw the hardened expression the pilot wore. “Virgil.” Without second thought, Vani had clambered off the bed and crossed the space between them. Virgil’s mind, upon registering where he was, and who he was with, let his body collapse into the woman. Arms wrapped around him tightly, Vani held up her love as he broke down into heaving sobs. Tears welling in her eyes, Vani held him steady and rubbed his back as she cooed reassurance. “I’ve got you Virg, and I won’t let go until you say so.” Virgil held his lifeline tightly, and some conscious part of him was screaming at him for crushing the woman he loved so deeply. He buried his face into her soft curls, the smell of cocoa butter and pineapple a familiar, soothing presence. It wasn’t often that Virgil would be so impacted by a rescue. But he was grateful that she was there when he needed. Even after Virgil’s cries had soothed, he couldn’t find himself ready to let go. 

“Virgil?” Vani whispered. “I’m just gonna have a quick look at you.” Pulling away, Virgil looked at Vani with a tear streaked, reddened face. Her heart nearly broke at the look in his eyes - the slight fear of being left alone in his vulnerability, and the uncertainty. Holding his hands and squeezing a few times, she gave him a small smile as she scanned over his form. His IR blues, usually so vibrant, we muddied with dirt and soot. And blood. Streaks, pools, splatters. Being a trained medic, Virgil often supported emergency response personnel in the field if need be.

“I’m just checking for injuries.” Vani verbalised, as her hands traced over the blood stains and slightly prodded. The blood was dried, with no oxygen rich pools flooding the spaces. But that didn’t mean they didn’t hurt the man, with the way his eyes fell to her hands. “Let’s get you cleaned up.” Gently moving him to their ensuite bathroom, the man held her hand like a small child, letting her lead the way. 

As she turned the taps on, the sound of water filling the ceramic tub echoed within the room. Steam rose, looking inviting as Virgil’s gaze fell on the body. Hands on his chest drew his attention back to the present, his eyes falling on Vani. “I’m going to start removing your suit, starting with your baldritch. You use your hands, or your words, if you want me to stop. Is that okay?” Of course. Virgil thought to himself. I trust you entirely. But words couldn’t form, and so a simple nod sufficed. Nodding back, she began to unfasten the clips on either side of his hips and thighs. As they slid down, Vani gently lifted the baldritch sash over his head and let it drop, kneeling as he stepped out. 

“Hold onto my shoulder.” Doing as instructed, he kept his balance as she undid his boots and pushed both the baldritch and it aside. Standing upright, she gently held his hands and pulled off the velcro pads for his gloves, slipping them off. As she put them neatly on the benchtop, her gaze lifted to him. “Are you okay with me undoing your suit?” Virgil nodded, and Vani unzipped the top. Helping him discard the dirtied suit, his thermal undershirt and undergarments, she held his hand and guided him into the hot bath. Without second thought, he sank down and let the warm water encase his body in a safe cocoon.

Virgil let out a long breath, watching the woman move around him. The tap closed, as Vani gathered soaps and hair products to help clean the dirt away. “I’m just gonna start cleaning you up, Hon. Pouring water over your head.” She announced as a stream of water soaked his hair. A bottle opening and cool liquid dampening his locks, Vani’s fingers worked to massage the gel into his hair, and thoroughly lather and clean it. Groaning at the calming sensation, Virgil’s eyes fluttered closed. How could something so gentle give him such solace? 

“Did you want to talk about what happened?” Vani whispered into the air, looking down as she combed her fingers through the black strands. Eyes opening, Virgil looked up at the woman above him. He hadn’t really had a chance to admire her. But now in the seconds he had, his eyes roamed over her. She was wearing one of his old shirts, one he used to use after ballet practice. A warmth in his chest blossomed at the sight of something that was his, complimenting her so perfectly. How it framed her, and matched with the bike shorts, contrasted against her tan skin. After a brief moment, he nodded a little and stared ahead. 

“John called in about a series of tremors along the San Andreas fault. Apparently these escalated into a few earthquakes. One impacting a school.” Virgil shifted, the water sloshing and lapping at the sides. “The building had sunk into an open crevice, and needed help lifting them out.” Vani nodded, gently rinsing the shampoo out. Hands collecting conditioner, she let him continue as she worked the cream through his hair. “When I landed, the local emergency crews had evacuated the surrounding areas, but also got to those that were just trapped. I had to go in and not only lift the building up, but get to what was estimated, 17 children and a few adults.

“Once I had moved the debris, I had a clear view of them.” His breath hitching, Virgil looked up at Vani. “They were so scared, Baby. They couldn’t have been older than 9. Covered in dirt, some with broken arms, scabbed knees. Kids should only get those injuries on playgrounds and when having fun, not fearing for their life in a crevice with a building over them.” Vani gently held his shoulder, squeezing slightly. 

“That you worked to save them from.”

“I did, but getting there was hard.” Motioning for him to continue, Vani started washing over his upper body and arms, scrubbing at the dried dirt. The massaging motion, and gentle touches soothed Virgil’s body, but also relaxed his mind. “I had to first get the injured kids up, being careful not to move too suddenly, or twist them harshly. I had to gently pry them off, even against their pleas.” Virgil twisted his mouth, trying to push down the thought of teary, horrified faces pulling away from a safe hold. “And then we managed to get a ladder down, so the rest of them could climb up. Just as we were about to get the last child up, another tremor hit, and the ground caved-” Breath hitching, Virgil tilted his head back, looking at Vani as she squeezed his hand. Watching his face, Vani gave a soft gaze as she traced his knuckles. 

“Deep breaths, Hon. Take your time.” Doing as she instructed, Virgil took a deep breath and exhaled, leaning back against her. 

“Without thinking, I grabbed the arm of the girl tightly as I held the ledge, and she screamed. I- I dislocated her shoulder.” Virgil’s voice quivered, and Vani leaned down and held him from behind. “I pulled her up and carried her out. Holding her so tightly, and begging for her forgiveness.” Virgil shook, holding Vani’s arms closer to him. 

“Virgil, you saved that girl’s life. You did what any of us would’ve done in that situation.” Vani assured him.

“They were already scared and in pain, and I made it worse-”

“Virgil Tracy.” Vani firmly said. Gently cradling his face and tilting his head back to meet her gaze, she looked down at him. “I’ve never known you to make things worse. You make things better. You are a beacon of hope, and are everything that is good in this world. Those kids were lucky that you were there today. I’m sure that young girl forgave you, knowing that her hero did his best. But you need to know that too. That you did your best.” Virgil gave a small nod. Vani, as blunt as she could be sometimes, always knew what to say, always knew how to ground him. Her logical approach was always a nice contrast and comfort to his emotional approach. It’s what balanced them so perfectly. “Did you do everything you could?”

“I did.”

“And was everyone taken care of, by yourself or other personnel?”

“Yes.”

“And did everyone get to go home today, to their families safe and sound?”

“Yes.”

“And you did too. And that’s all that matters.” Kissing his forehead, she stroked over his cheeks. 

“Does anyone ever tell you that you give great pep-talks Baby?” Virgil leaned into her touch. 

“Not recently, but please give me all the praise I deserve.” Giving a small smile, she placed a kiss on his lips and massaged his shoulders. “Come on, I’ll let you finish up while I get your suit in the laundry. Then we’ll get you some food, and then go to bed.” 

Virgil smiled as the woman stood and started to move around him. Virgil may be a rescue operative, but even he needed a bit of saving and helping every now and then. And he was grateful that Vani was the woman he could always count on to do so.