ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE

by

Jackie Edwards

---

Dan Williams couldn't completely squelch the smile pulling at the corner of his mouth, despite his frustration. In the passenger seat beside him, Steve McGarrett, his partner in their security consultant business, rattled on about the account they'd just acquired. A year ago, when Williams had been forced to retire on a medical discharge as 2nd in command of Hawaii 5-0, he and McGarrett had gone into partnership together

Williams was the front man, the sales end of the business, while McGarrett had put up most of the financial backing. He'd stayed out of the business unless a particularly sticky problem had arisen on which Williams had needed his help. However, when he'd retired as head of 5-0 six months before, McGarrett had become more and more involved in the business. And, much as he enjoyed the older man's company and valued his knowledge, Danny found himself wishing Steve would slack off a little.

Dan felt as if his friend was always underfoot. which was how they'd all felt during the rare periods when McGarrett had been at loose ends at the office.

"Bored and lookin' for trouble," Kono had coined McGarrett's mode.

But, listening to Steve expound on the plans for the Reef hotel's security, excitement in his voice, made Dan smile. He'd known Steve would eventually grow bored with retirement. He'd just thought it would take more than six months!

"You're doing a fine job, Danno." McGarrett finished with pride in his voice. "I knew you'd be a natural at this."

"All those years of surveillance and security." Williams joked. He paused, "Steve, don't you think you're pushing a little? I mean, you're supposed to be retired."

McGarrett turned that blue-eyed gaze on him and Dan found himself studying the road ahead.

"Yeah, but I've had over a year."

He shrugged. "Don't you want to relax for awhile?"

McGarrett grinned. Typical Danno. Concerned with his well being. "I relaxed for six months. Now it's time I did my share in this company of ours."

Danny's heart sank. Pulling into Steve's driveway, he turned off the car.

"Come on it." McGarrett thumped his knee. "Have a glass of tea."

Nodding, resigned, Williams got out and followed McGarrett into the beach house. While his friend fixed their drinks, Dan plopped on the couch, eyes drifting around the room. The house was neat and orderly like McGarrett. Everything in it's proper place, yet with a feeling of casual order. His gaze fell to a 16x24 photograph of the Los Angeles skyline at night. Lights from the buildings and freeways mixed with the colorful sunset, making a startlingly beautiful shot.

Williams picked it up for a closer look. The paper wrapping still lay beneath the picture and Williams noted the neat handwriting on the return address. Nicole Wylie.

"You still in contact with Nicole Wylie?" he called, looking once more to the picture. "If she sent you this photo of LA, she's got great taste. It was on the cover of LA Magazine last month."

McGarrett emerged with two glasses of iced tea and a bowl of popcorn on a carved wooden tray. There was what Williams surprisingly termed a 'sly' smile on his friend's lips.

"She not only sent it, she took it," he said, setting the tray on the coffee table. "Ellen Case is the name she uses for her photography."

"No kidding." Danny took a glass of tea and sat the photo carefully on the table.

Steve took a seat in the armchair across from Dan. "We talk once or twice a week."

Dan knew McGarrett had remained in contact with their former witness, (SINGAPORE FILE) but had no idea the relationship still continued. At the time of mob boss Ravasco's trial, when she'd been in Five-0's protective custody awaiting her turn to testify, Nicole and McGarrett had spent a lot of time together. Everyone had felt the attraction and had been surprised when she'd gone to live in Los Angeles. She had visited a few times that Dan knew about, [STILL FRAME], [THE ACCIDENT] and while Steve's private life had always been just that, Dan was surprised that he hadn't known about the serious affair with Nicole.

"I know she's been out here a couple of times on vacation," Danny ventured casually. "You ever think about visiting her in LA?"

"I have. Last year when I was testifying at Login's trial." He met Williams' startled gaze. "I stayed a few extra days with Nicole." He shrugged, "And once or twice when I've gone to visit my sister I've seen her. They don't live far from each other." Then, as if to defend his actions, "I was easing out of fIVE-0 then, remember? I wanted the new team to take on more of the load."

Williams picked up a handful of popcorn. "Hey, I think it's great. I liked Nicole."

McGarrett grinned, reaching for the munchies. "Watch it, bruddah. When she visits, she's mine."

Danno laughed, but his mind was clicking and he casually moved the picture aside to note Nicole's street address.

*****

Nicole ran for the phone, fingers pushing auburn hair out of her eyes. She'd just stepped out of the shower when the phone ran and the shoulder-length hair hung in damp ringlets around her face. "Hello?"

"Nicole Wylie?"

She frowned. The voice was vaguely familiar. "Yes? Who's this?"

"Dan Williams."

"Danny! How are you?" Then, as another thought occurred to her. "It's not Steve, is it?"

"No, no." Dan hastened to reassure her. "He's fine."

Nicole relaxed, but still wondered at the detective's call -- ex-detective, she reminded herself. "Can you hold on for just a second?" She asked.

"Sure."

Nicole laid down the receiver and went to wrap her wet hair in a towel. In Hawaii, Dan was beginning to doubt the validity of his plan. How, he wondered, was he going to explain to Nicole that he wanted her to be a diversion? But before he could back out, she was on the phone again.

"This is going to sound a little weird." He began, "But, how would you like to take a short vacation in paradise? My treat."

*****

Nicole recognized him the second she saw him, although two years had passed since she'd seen him last. No question, he was older, more worn, and the sandy hair had turned mostly gray, but he retained much of the same boyish charm she'd encountered almost eleven years ago when they first met.

He came to meet her and slipped a pink lei over her head. "Aloha." Danno smiled, taking the small overnight bag she carried. "This it?"

Nicole nodded. "I figured I could go shopping here if this turns into a lengthy process."

Williams had the decency to look chagrined. "You're sure you don't mind? After I talked to you, it seemed like..."

"A sneaky thing to do?" Nicole grinned, taking his arm. "Well, there's nobody better to be sneaky with than Steve I've learned that over the years." She laughed, "Otherwise I'd never see him."

"If you don't mind my asking," Nicole said when they'd pulled out into the afternoon traffic, "Why did you retire so early? It depressed Steve terribly, but he never told me why."

"I was involved in a controversial shooting incident."

Except for a slight scar partially obscured along his hairline, he looked normal. "You were shot?" Nicole asked.

Williams sighed. "It's a long and ugly story. Anyway, I resigned from Five-0." They rode in silence for a few minutes, and then Williams glanced at her. "Did it really upset him? My leaving, I mean."

Nicole nodded. "Terribly. I think he felt as if a part of him was gone." She stopped, searching for the words to describe her impressions. "It was as if he felt incomplete as if without you there, the purpose was gone.

"That's ridiculous." Williams protested.

"It's hard to explain, but he definitely missed you. That's why he went into this security business with you. I think he felt like he was losing touch, losing you, and he needed an anchor." She cast a sidelong glance at her companion. "That, and that he thought you were feeling worthless." Danny threw her a sharp look. "After the shooting -- he told me that much, that you'd been shot -- he didn't want you to feel used up." She bit her lip. "Like he was feeling."

Danno felt the enormity of the woman's words. It was rare that Steve McGarrett called you a close friend, but if what Nicole felt was true, Williams wondered how worthy he was of the other man's love. And the confirmation of his own suspicions that McGarrett had had a physically and emotionally draining year with his new team sent a pang of anger and pain shooting through him.

He tried to interject a lighter note. "Well, he's out of it now, and driving me nuts!"

Nicole laughed. "I'm sure he is. Boredom is a very dangerous thing for Steve."

Williams snorted. "No kidding."

Dan drove her to a local car rental agency where he'd reserved a white Ford sedan.

"Danny, you don't have to pay for all of this." Nicole protested for the dozenth time since he'd called her. "I like Hawaii and I love being with Steve. It's not an imposition."

"I know, but it was my idea and the whole point is to get his mind off of work and onto enjoying his retirement."

Nicole grinned. "I thought the point was getting him out from underfoot?"

Danny turned to hand the man at the desk his credit car, a faint blush creeping around his ears. The plan was that Nicole would show up half an hour before Dan was supposed to pick McGarrett up for a client meeting. With any luck, Dan had told her, Steve would opt to stay with her and he'd go on to the meeting himself.

"Is he really that bad?" Nicole had asked, suddenly concerned.

"No, it's me." Danno had assured her. "He's like a big kid with a new toy and he sees it as a way to avoid sitting around relaxing." He shrugged. "Old habits die hard. Steve's not used to enjoying himself, at least not on a regular basis."

"Well," Nicole had slipped into the rented car; "We'll just have to adjust his way of thinking, won't we?"

Danny watched her drive off, a smile on his face. He could see why Steve liked her. He cocked his head, watching the white car disappear around a corner. Maybe since he had more time, Steve would see the advantages of a steady girl. Danny shook himself. "If Steve ever caught you match-making he'd skin you alive." With a grin he climbed back into his own car and headed for a local burger stand for lunch.

*****

McGarrett glanced out the window as the white car pulled into his drive. He'd expected Dan's Mustang and angled toward the door at the sight of the strange vehicle. His steps turned into a jog when Nicole stepped out of the driver's seat and turned toward the front door.

"Nicole!" He murmured, a grin shaping his features. She ran to meet him, throwing herself into his arms.

Steve held her tightly, wondering what had happened. Delighted as he was to see her, it wasn't like Nicole to visit without warning. Both of them knew the other led a separate life and neither wanted to intrude on that.

"What's wrong?" He asked, pulling her away so that he could look into her eyes. Nicole laughed, pushing unruly hair from her eyes.

"Well I like that! The first thing out of your mouth after almost a year is 'What's wrong'?"

Steve chuckled. "Okay, how about, 'What a surprise'?"

"Better." Nicole told him. She ran her hands along his arms, savoring every inch of him. "Oh, Steve, it's good to see you!"

McGarrett pulled her into another hug, then pointed to the car. "How long have you been here? You're not on a job, are you?"

"Nope. Vacation. I decided I was seeing everything through a viewfinder and it as time I looked at the world around me again." She gestured to the ocean that lapped against smooth sand at the edge of McGarrett's property. "And where could I find a more beautiful piece of the world?"

"Where are your bags?" He started for the car, then turned, suspicious. "You were planning to stay here?"

Nicole nodded. "Where else?"

Steve resumed his trek to her car. "I'll get your bags."

"Singular." She called as he opened the door and pulled out the overnight bag. "I thought I'd do some shopping while I was here."

"Think you'll have time?" He asked, blue eyes sparkling as he headed back to her.

"I thought we could go together." She said with marked innocence. "You must know all the good places by now."

Steve slipped his arm around her, guiding her up the steps. "Oh, I do, Ms Wylie I certainly do."

After depositing her bag in his bedroom, Steve fixed them lemonade while Nicole lounged against the counter, nibbling on a carrot stick she'd dug out of the refrigerator.

"I can't believe you really squeeze lemons for this," she said, awe in her voice as she watched, entranced, while he sliced and squeezed fresh lemons into a jar.

"How else do you think you get lemonade?" he countered, tossing the rinds into the sink. "You open a carton and pour it into a glass." She said flatly

Nicole eyed the vegetable between her fingers with a sigh. "I see I'm going to have to go shopping this afternoon if I plan to eat tonight."

"I've got food." He protested with a grin. Nicole treated him to a sour look.

"Not eatable food, McGarrett. I'm not the usual health food nut you're used to going around with."

"Is that a ploy to find out if I've been going out with anybody?" He asked sweetly as he reached for the pitcher.

"Humph." Nicole snapped off a bite of carrot, chewing thoroughly. He's much too clever, she thought, we're not going to get away with this.

"So what really brings you to paradise?" Steve asked, handing her a glass of iced lemonade. "Let's go in the living room."

"What usually brings me here?" She frowned. "You."

McGarrett pulled her down on the sofa beside him. "Really? Let's see, it's not my birthday, not Christmas or New Years." His smile was deceptive. "So why the surprise visit?"

"I can stay in a hotel, you know." Nicole snapped. "If I'd wanted a third degree, I'd have gone to the Palace and talked to what's-his-name."

"I'm sorry, Honey." McGarrett kissed her cheek. "Once a suspicious cop, always one, I guess." He ran a finger down her cheek. "It's good to see you."

Nicole took a sip of her drink. This is good."

"Don't sound so surprised. We both know I'm the domestic one around here."

"I can sew!" She protested indignantly. "A little."

"And cook." Steve added, sipping the lemonade. "Last time you almost didn't burn the-"

"Oh, shut up!" She poked him in the ribs with her elbow. "I didn't come here to be harassed."

"Too bad." He nuzzled her neck, his free arm sliding along the back of the couch to tickle her ear. "Harassment is one of my best things."

"I've heard that about you." Nicole agreed. "I'm going to spill this all over the furniture."

"Hum..."Steve looked up as another car pulled into the drive. "That'll be Danno." He said.

"Dan Williams?" Nicole rose and followed him to the door. "I told you we'd gone into business together?" He opened the door, waiting as the younger man approached.

"I thought you were mostly a backer," She said, casually. "Not a participant."

McGarrett shrugged. "Well, since I've retired, I felt it was only right to take some of the burden off Danno. He's done a damned good job, but it's a lot work for one man. This modest little venture has actually grown the past year."

Nicole glanced up at him, then at the man approaching. Oh, Daniel, she thought, We have got a long road ahead of us. He's actually convinced himself he's doing this for you, Danny!

"You're late." McGarrett chided his friend good-naturedly.

"Sorry, Steve. I got held up." Danny stopped on the doorstep and smiled at Nicole.

"You remember Nicole." McGarrett made the introduction.

"Of course."

Nicole held out her hand. "It's nice to see you again."

"Good to see you, too." He turned to McGarrett. "If you want to sit this one out, Steve..."

"No, no, I'm sure Nicole could use some time to recover from her flight out."

Nicole nodded, deadpan. "Oh, it was harrowing."

McGarrett smacked her lightly on the rear. "Smart-ass."

Nicole smiled sweetly. "Have a nice time. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine."

Brow furrowing slightly, Steve looked from one to the other. Williams' discovery of the photo two days before and their conversation about Nicole played in his mind, and the cop in him smelled a rat.

"I see..." His laugh was without mirth. He waved a finger between the two. "This was a setup."

"What are you talking about, Steve?" Williams said lightly. "What kind of setup?"

"Oh, no." McGarrett smiled at his friend. "No, no, I'm retired, Danno, not dead. Even a rookie would smell a setup. When you found out Nicole and I were still corresponding, you called her to come out and save me from my boredom, didn't you?"

"Steve--" Williams began.

"Corresponding?" Nicole echoed.

"Exactly what is it about my life you think I need to be diverted from?"

"Well," Williams shifted uncomfortably on the wood stair. He'd never been able to lie to McGarrett. "I just thought..."

"Corresponding?" Nicole repeated.

"You having a problem with that?" Steve asked, shifting his gaze.

Danny rolled his eyes heavenward. He was dead. They were both dead. No, Steve wouldn't hit a woman.

"Yes, dammit, I do." Nicole snapped, her patience fraying from jet lag. "Danny called me because you're making him crazy the way you're pushing this business of yours."

Steve opened his mouth to protest, but Nicole continued without giving him an opening. "It was supposed to be a nice, amusing way to spend some of your time. How can it be any fun if you run it like Five-0?" Her voice had risen a notch and her hands were clenched into fists. McGarrett shut his mouth, hands on hips, and looked at first one, then the other. "I know, I know." She turned to go to the bedroom. "I'll get my bag."

Finally Steve found his voice. "Where are you going?" He shouted down the hallway after her. Nicole poked her head around the doorframe. "Home."

"Why?"

Danny frowned. This wasn't going the way he'd expected. Either way he'd expected.

"Why? You figured it out, we tricked you. We should have known better than to try and con the great Steve McGarrett." Her head disappeared and Steve moved down the hall.

"Now wait a minute! That's not fair."

Danny stayed rooted in place, unwilling to stray too far into the battle zone. Of all the women Steve had known, Nicole Wylie was the one who could turn McGarrett on the fastest, make him the maddest and drive him the craziest. Williams still thought it was because her force of will was as great as Steve's. And she had no compulsion about telling him when she thought he was out of line. Raised voices lowered to murmurs and soon the two returned, without Nicole's bag.

"So," Danny said brightly, for lack of anything else. "Ready to go?"

McGarrett laughed. "You two are something." Then he held the door open. "No, I'm not, and neither are you. We're going to take this lady shopping for some decent clothes and then we're going to take her to dinner."

"What about Freeman?" Danny glanced at his watch. "I told him I'd be there at 3:30."

"Go. We'll meet you at the Singapore Palace at 7:30."

"Great." Danno smiled, relieved. Steve seemed to be taking it well, though in the back of his mind Dan had a feeling of trepidation. "I'll see you then."

"What are you up to?" Nicole asked, suspiciously, as they watched Danny walk back to the Mustang.

"Why, Ms Wylie, what a suspicious mind you have. Subterfuge is your line, not mine."

With a snort she turned and headed for the bedroom. "If we're going shopping, I've got to change my shoes."

McGarrett smiled at he watched Danno back into the street and drive away. Then he reached for the phone book.

The Singapore Palace was one of Honolulu's most popular Oriental restaurants. It was rare that McGarrett took the time to go to the plush eatery, but he considered this a special occasion, in more ways than one. Knowing he was hatching a plot, Nicole had spent most of the trip to the restaurant trying to pry information out of her companion, but to no avail. The most McGarrett would admit was that he'd arranged for a date for Danno.

"A date? Don't you think he can get his own girls?" She'd asked. "I seem to remember a few sarcastic remarks in that direction."

"Sarcastic? Me?" McGarrett had managed to look injured. "Really, Nicole."

She'd made a face. "Really, Nicole."

Now the three of them sat in a secluded booth, awaiting the arrival of Williams' companion for the evening.

"Steve, you really didn't have to come up with a date for me." Danny told him. "I hadn't planned to bring one."

"My pleasure, Danno." Steve said with marked sincerity.

"Hi, Mr. McGarrett."

They looked up to find a petite redhead standing beside them.

"Shauna, sit down." McGarrett stood, as did Danny. "I don't believe you know Dan Williams and Nicole Wylie."

Shauna shook hands with both and sat down next to Danny. "I'm so glad you caught me, Steve

I mean, I was just about to maybe hire a plane or something to go over to one of the other islands for the weekend or something. Sometimes, you know, being rich isn't all it's cracked up to be. I mean, sometimes I'm just plain bored." She beamed at Danny. "I'd much rather spend it with friends."

Nicole forced her jaw closed. She didn't dare look at her own date. She could feel him tense beside her, desperately trying not to laugh. 'Oh, McGarrett,' she thought, darkly, 'Check and Mate. It will be a long time before that boy interferes in your love life again.'

Three hours later Nicole was wondering how in the world Shauna had managed to chatter through dinner, desert and drinks without losing her voice.

"Well, I'm beat." Steve turned to Nicole. "How about a ride home, pretty girl?"

"Fine." Nicole glanced at Danno. Swallowing hard, Dan smiled at his date. "Did you drive?" He asked hopefully.

"Oh, no, Steve told me to take a cab and that's what I did." She ran a finger down Williams' shoulder. "It always pays to follow Top Cop's suggestions."

Dan nodded ruefully. "Yep, sure does." Rising, he helped Shauna on with her light sweater. "'Night Steve, Nicole."

"'Night, Danno."

Nicole watched the couple leave, then peered up at McGarrett. "That was really rotten."

"Oh, she wasn't so bad." Steve helped her out of the booth. "Actually she's a good kid, just too much money and not enough supervision. I look in on her every once in a while. Her dad was a good friend of mine."

"Uh-huh." Nicole allowed herself to be led out of the restaurant. "Are you even now?"

"Why, Nicole, whatever do you mean?"

Shaking her head at his supercilious tone, Nicole waited by the door while he went to retrieve the car. And, amazingly, she found she was smiling. Williams had meddled, Steve had retaliated. And she knew that in morning, things would be the same as they always were. McGarrett didn't really mind Danny worrying about him and Williams would understand why Steve's pride had been ruffled.

"You're very lucky to have a friend like that, McGarrett." She murmured.

"Very lucky indeed." McGarrett pulled the car into his driveway and switched off the engine. He looked at Nicole, snuggled into his side, and smiled. "Hey, pretty girl, we're home."

"Hummm." Nicole murmured, burrowing deeper against him. "Can't we just sleep here?"

Steve opened the door and ruffled her dark hair. "Come on, I'm too old to carry you."

"Bull." She retorted, but slid across the seat and into the cool night. McGarrett put his arm around her as they walked to the door.

Pulling he keys out, he unlocked the front door and ushered Nicole inside. "Okay, you're in."

Nicole yawned. "I had a wonderful time, Steve. Thank you."

"My pleasure." He said sincerely. "You don't think I was too rough on Danno, do you?"

Nicole grinned. "Well, she was a bit of a talker, but I don't think he had an awful time. But the point was made."

"I just don't like people manipulating me, even Danno."

"Sometimes you need to be manipulated."

"I'll take that as a promise, Miss." Steve told her.

She squinted as he flipped on a lamp. "I'm going to take a shower. Then we'll see about that."

"Go ahead. I usually shower after I jog in the morning."

Nicole stopped in mid-stride. "Oh, I'd forgotten about that annoying habit of yours."

McGarrett grinned at her back. "Don't worry, sleeping beauty, I'll be quiet."

"Thank you." Nicole murmured, continuing on to the bathroom.

Steve stood, watching her move down the hallway, and felt the familiar excitement spread through him. The excitement he always felt whenever he was with Nicole. What was it about her that he found so attractive? He snorted. Attractive? That was an understatement. With a start Steve realized that he'd enjoyed himself more this evening than he had since he'd quit Five-0. In fact, he admitted to himself, since long before that. Maybe Danno was right; maybe Nicole was just what he needed right now. With a philosophical shrug, he headed for his study and the report Danno had written up on the Reef Hotel's security. Maybe he could read through it before Nicole was out of the shower. He heard the water start as he settled in his chair, feet propped on the desk, the file in his lap. But his mind wandered and he found himself listening to Nicole's singing rather than reading the report.

Admitting defeat, Steve tossed the folder on the desk and got to his feet. "All work and no play, as they say..." He smiled, unbuttoning his white shirt as he moved toward the bathroom.

*****

Later, dry and warm, Nicole lay nestled in the crook of Steve's arm, silky head pillowed on his chest

"Are you really angry with Danny for calling me?" She asked finally.

"No, of course I'm not." Steve smiled in the darkness.

"Are you sure?" Nicole persisted. McGarrett could hear the insecurity in her voice.

For an intelligent, beautiful woman who had completely turned her life around in the last ten years, she had the most amazing ability for self-doubt he'd ever seen.

"Yes, I'm sure. I love your company and I understand why Danno did it." He tried to find the words to explain just why he'd felt it necessary to retaliate against his friend. "I had to let him know that even though he had the best of intentions, I don't like people trying to manipulate my life."

"But if I'd come of my own volition, that would have been all right?" She asked, eyes narrowing.

"It's all right now, baby." McGarrett assured her, one hand smoothing through her hair. "It's just one of my quirks."

"He only did it because he cares about you." McGarrett kissed the top of her head. "I know."

"He thinks you're working too hard when you should be relaxing."

"I relaxed for six months. Now it's time I did my share with the business. Danno's been running it for over a year. It's time I gave him a break."

Frustrated, Nicole tried another tactic. "What about the things you enjoy? Tennis, windsurfing. your painting?"

"I've painted everything I can see and some things I can't." McGarrett told her.

"Well, maybe tomorrow I'll go and take some pictures for you to paint."

"You got a deal, honey. We'd make a hell of a team."

"Then you're glad I'm here?" She turned to peer up at him in the darkness.

Shaking his head in mock dismay, Steve shifted out from under her. "You are a stubborn woman. I guess there's only one way to convince you that I want you here."

The corner of her mouth quirked. "I guess..."

Rolling over, McGarrett smoothed the hair from her face and covered her mouth with his own.

*****

The next morning, after a leisurely breakfast, Nicole set out with two cameras and a pocketful of film. She drove for hours, covering every terrain the island had to offer, her trained photographer's eye looking for things that an artist might want to paint. By late afternoon she was finishing up the last roll of film.

"And if there's nothing in here that inspires him, the next trip is going to be to Los Angeles." She told herself. "I'll find things for him to paint there." She walked through a deserted part, short grass springy beneath her shoes

She had a strong urge to take them off and go barefoot, but the thought of juggling shoes along with her cameras and film didn't appeal. Instead she stopped near the entrance and began snapping shots. She had half a roll left and it was getting close to the time she was supposed to meet Steve. She took shots of at a magnificent waterfall where floating lilies collected in a rock-lined pool.

Rippling water spilled into the ocean and beyond the sandy beach a pod of dolphins danced just off shore. Clouds hung lazily overhead, drifting in front of a pale rainbow stretched across the perfect blue sky. Two men sat on a bench near the water's edge and she included them in several of the shots. As she watched one of the men got up and headed for the other entrance while his companion remained on the bench. The camera shut down and she slipped the roll of film and, adding it to her purse.

Then she headed for the road and her car. She got into the sedan and headed for the building where Steve and Danny had their office. She stayed away from the main roads and met little traffic. Finally she pulled into the tiny lot just, she noted with satisfaction, five minutes before the appointed time. Whistling, she hurried up the flight of wooden stairs to the small office.

Outside a car sat idling in the lot for a moment then pulled into a space. It's occupant got out and jogged down the street a block to a pay phone.

"So you took a lot of pictures, did you?" Steve said, accepting Nicole's kiss on his cheek.

"Hundreds. And if you can't find something worth painting in this bunch..." She patted the purse at her side, "Then I'm turning in my light meter."

"Oh, I'm sure there's be one or two of interest."

"I noticed one of those overnight booths in the parking lot. I'm going to drop the film off tonight."

"Okay." Steve glanced at his watch. "Why don't you do that now? Danno should be back any minute and then we can go."

"Okay. Be right back."

Ten minutes later the man from the green Plymouth returned in time to see McGarrett come down the stairs to meet Nicole. He got in his car to wait. He'd been right, she had gone to McGarrett's office.

"What's the matter?" Nicole asked. "I thought I was coming upstairs."

"Danno just called. He had a flat tire, so he's going home to change clothes. Why don't you go on back to the house and get ready? He'll pick me up here and we'll meet you about 5:00."

"Why don't you come with me?"

McGarrett shook his head. "I have a couple of phone calls to make."

"You're no fun, you know that McGarrett?"

Blue eyes twinkled devilishly. "That is not what you said last night."

"I was in the throes of passion. What did you expect me to say?" She demanded in mock anger.

"Actually, I don't remember you saying much of anything."

"I think this conversation has gone on long enough." But she was smiling. It was good to see Steve relaxed and joking. So much of the last years in Five-0 had not left him so. "Take off." Steve kissed her

"We'll see you in about an hour."

"Okay." She turned toward her car.

McGarrett watched as she pulled out of the lot, then he hurried back to his office. What he didn't see was the green Plymouth pulling out of the parking lot to follow his friend's car.

Nicole glanced in the rearview mirror, forehead wrinkling. The green Plymouth had been tailgating her since she'd left Steve's office and he was beginning to make her nervous. She slowed well below the limit, hoping he'd pass her, but he stuck to her. Finally they came to a stretch of deserted road and Nicole was relieved to see him start to go around her.

"Finally!" She exclaimed. Then she realized that he didn't plan to pass her, he planned to run her off the road! Frantically Nicole swerved to avoid his first attempt, jerking the wheel first right then left as the Plymouth moved into her lane.

The second attempt succeeded in putting a dent in the side of her car and pushing her onto the dusty shoulder of the road. Panic gripped her as she clung to the wheel, desperately trying to evade her assailant. They rounded a corner and suddenly a semi was in the oncoming lane, forcing the green Plymouth behind her. Nicole gunned the engine and shot away, losing herself in the mainstream of rush hour traffic. Without really seeing she drove to McGarrett's and parked in the driveway. When the car didn't appear, she leaned her forehead against the steering wheel, trying to slow her racing heart. Finally she caught her breath and climbed out of the car. On only slightly unsteady legs she moved across the front lawn and unlocked the door.

"You think she's ready?" Williams grinned at his companion as he swung into the driveway behind Nicole's car.

"Oh, she'll be ready." McGarrett told him. "She was starving an hour ago at the office."

The two men got out of the car and started for the house, but Steve's steps slowed as he passed Nicole's car.

The driver's door was standing open and the engine was still running.

"Something's wrong!" He shouted to Danno and they both run the distance into the house. "Nicole!" McGarrett shouted. "Nicole, where are you?"

"Here."

It was a tiny sound and he almost didn't hear her. Nicole sat cross-legged on the couch, in the same clothes she'd worn earlier, arms wrapped around her knees. Steve knelt in front of her, hands on her shoulders, while Danny hovered behind him

."Nicole? Honey, what happened?"

"He tried to kill." She murmured, eyes fixed on a point over his shoulder.

"Who?" McGarrett gave her a gentle shake. "Who tried to kill you?"

"I don't know." A tear slipped down her cheek. She turned her eyes to meet his. "You said I was safe. You said that after Ravasco was killed I'd be safe."

"Nicole, what happened?"

"Somebody tried to run me off the road." The tears fell in earnest now. "He tried to kill me, Steve."

McGarrett rose as she came forward, into his arms. He exchanged a bewildered look with Danny who looked just as confused.

"Somebody tried to run you off the road, is that what happened?" He asked gently, fingers massaging her back. Nicole nodded against his shoulder. Steve could feel her tears against his neck and he held her tighter. "Honey, I don't think anybody was trying to kill you. They would have done it long before this if it were Ravasco's men. They're just not around anymore, Nicole."

"Well somebody did!" She told him, sitting up. "I didn't dream it! And I have a dent on my car door to prove it!"

"I didn't think you imagined it, Honey." Steve soothed, brushing the wetness from her cheeks. "But it was probably a drunk driver or some kid out joyriding. He didn't follow you here, did he?"

Nicole shook her head. "No."

"You see? I'm sure he didn't even know who you were." Steve looked to his partner for help.

"Sure." Danny knelt beside them. "Unfortunately, it happens all the time."

Her dark eyes were black from fear and crying, but McGarrett could see she wanted to believe them.

"Come on." He urged her to her feet. "Go and wash you face and we'll go to dinner." He grinned at her. "You wouldn't want to be late for our reservation, would you?"

Nicole sniffed. "You really think that's all it was? A drunk or some smart ass kid?"

"I'm sure of it." Steve kissed her cheek. "Come on. Go and wash up."

When she'd gone, Danny turned to his friend. "You really think some drunk tried to run her off the road?"

McGarrett shrugged. "I find it easier to believe that than Ravasco coming back from the dead."

Dan started for he door. "I'm going to take a look at her car and shut it off before she runs out of gas."

"I'll wait for her."

*****

It was almost midnight when the Mustang pulled into the drive. The two men had devoted themselves to making Nicole forget what had happened and enjoy herself. By the time they arrived at McGarrett's house, her lighthearted mood had been completely restored.

"Want to come in for a minute, Danno?" Steve asked as he helped Nicole out of the sportscar.

"I'm beat, Steve. I think I'll take a raincheck."

"We'll hold you to that." Nicole leaned in the window, kissing his cheek. "Goodnight. And thanks."

"My pleasure." He waited until he saw lights on inside, then started to back out of the drive. He hit the brake when Steve shot out the front door, shouting at him. "What?" Danny shut off the car and got out.

"The house has been tossed." McGarrett told him grimly. "Do me a favor and hang around for HPD, will you?"

"Sure, Steve." Danny followed him back inside. "Robbery?"

"No."

Danny turned to see Nicole standing in one corner of the living room, her eyes on McGarrett.

"It's happening again, isn't it?"

"I don't know, Nicole." He admitted

"Let's see what the police come up with."

*****

"And that's all you remember about the car?" Officer Reid asked her.

"Nothing about the man driving?"

Nicole shook her head. "It all happened so fast. But it was a dark green Plymouth, I know that. And the last three numbers of the license were 336."

"Okay, thanks."

The officer went to where McGarrett stood with Danny, watching the fingerprint team winding up their efforts. "We'll get an APD out on the car." He told them. "I don't know how much good it'll do, but it's worth a try."

"Thanks, Jerry." Steve said, glancing at Nicole. "She seem okay?"

"She's a tough lady." The cop said. "But she's pretty shook."

McGarrett nodded. "Can you go over this list with me, Mr. McGarrett?" Reid asked.

"Sure." He glanced at Nicole again. "Danno, will you go and sit with her. She doesn't look good."

"Sure, Steve."

Danny walked over to the sofa and sat down beside Nicole.

"He send you to keep an eye on me?" She asked with a shaky smile.

"Not really." Danny grinned back. "But he's worried about you."

"I'm okay." Nicole told him. "It's just -- for a second there it was like Singapore all over again. The fear, the running." She shivered. "But I know it's not connected. Steve's right about that. He thinks it's someone after him, and I have to admit, it sounds more likely."

They sat in silence for a moment, and then Danny tried to change the direction of her thoughts to something more pleasant. "So tell me how you got involved in photography." He said.

Nicole laughed softly. "Well, I was a photography student in college, but my part-time job didn't cover the bills after awhile and I couldn't make ends meet." She lifted a rueful shoulder. I fell in with the wrong crowd and found an easier way of making money." She glanced at Dan's attentive face. "Does that shock you?"

"I was a cop for 20 years, remember?" He smiled.

"You're really very nice, you know that?" Nicole told him.

"Then what happened?" He prompted.

"Then," she continued, "I quit school and, well, you know the rest. I met Ravasco and life suddenly became a living hell." Her gaze shifted to where McGarrett stood talking with the HPD officers. "And then I met Steve, and everything changed. Suddenly I was worth something -- my life was worth something again." She looked at Danny. "I hadn't felt that way in a long, long time."

Williams nodded. "Steve has that affect on some people."

"Then," Nicole went on, "Almost as soon as he was sent to prison, Ravasco was killed and then Victor, his right hand man, was assassinated by their minions." She shrugged. "I got out of the witness protection program before I even joined and went to LA to live." She smiled. "I went back to school and got my degree. Then I got very lucky and sold covers to a couple of very good magazines. And here we are."

"Where are we?" They looked up to see Steve standing over them.

"What did the police say?" Nicole asked.

"Well, they've ruled out the likelihood that someone's after either of us. They think it was an aborted burglary. The bedroom window's open. I think we surprised them."

"Thank God." She breathed. "Something as simple as burglary. "

Dan stood up. "I think I'll hit the road, Steve." He told them. "Talk to you in the morning."

He patted the younger man's back. "Thanks, Danno."

When he'd gone, McGarrett locked the house and shepherded Nicole through a hot bath and a large brandy. Then he tucked her into bed beside him and turned out the light. "You okay?" He asked, stroking her hair.

Nicole yawned, the liquor taking hold. "Yep. 'Night McGarrett."

He smiled in the darkness. "Why do you still call me that?"

"What?" She yawned again. "McGarrett. Don't you think we've graduated to a first name basis by now?"

Nicole snuggled closer. "Sometimes, when things are weird or scary, it reminds me of the time we spent getting back here from Singapore. I guess it's kind of a nickname." She shrugged against him. "I won't if you don't like it."

"No, that's okay." He kissed the top of her head. "I just wondered."

A few minutes later Nicole drifted off to sleep. Steve pulled the blanket over them and forced himself to relax. But the day's events kept replaying in his mind and it was a long time before he closed his eyes.

The next morning McGarrett took his guest to an early breakfast. They'd picked up Nicole's photos and spent the meal going through them; McGarrett selecting shots to try on canvas. He particularly liked the three she'd taken at the park, with the two men sitting on the bench feeding ducks. He put them and several others in his pocket.

"Maybe I'll stop by the art shop on my way home." He'd commented.

After breakfast, McGarrett dropped Nicole at one of Honolulu's shopping malls, promising to pick her up for lunch after he and Williams had their meeting with the manager of the Reef Hotel and his head of security.

"Shouldn't be any later than 12:30." He'd assure her.

As he and Williams walked through the hotel parking lot, Steve noticed that the lost marked 'Security' was empty.

'Humph,' he thought, 'I'll bet that means Reynolds is going to be late.' They were in the middle of the review of their security plans with Mathews, the hotel manager, when his head of security entered the room.

"Sorry I'm late. Traffic."

Introductions were made and Dan went back over the points he'd missed. Steve watched the meeting, Steve had the vague feeling that he'd seen the security man somewhere before, but he couldn't place him. The feeling persisted through the meeting and their walk back to Dan's car.

"Something bothering you, Steve?" Williams asked, noting his companion's preoccupied mood.

"I don't know, Danno. I know I've seen Reynolds before, but I can't remember where. It bothers me." As they passed Reynolds parking space, McGarrett noticed it was occupied with a dark green Plymouth. His steps slowed and he circled to the passenger side. There was a wide scrape on the front fender with a layer of white paint over the green.

"Danno!"

Williams hurried to his side, taking in the evidence before them. "My God... It can't be."

"Yes! It can!" Steve reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out the snapshots Nicole had taken. He paged through them until he came to the three with the men on the bench. "I knew Reynolds looked familiar!" He hissed, snapping the picture with his finger. "Look!"

Danny studied the photograph. "It sure looks like him, but it's hard to tell at that distance." He hesitated. "And the other guy looks like Mathews!"

"Let's get to a phone!" McGarrett said, racing for their car.

They drove to the nearest payphone and Danny put in a call to a friend at DMV. She ran Reynolds' car and came up with the green Plymouth, license number 442336.

"Thanks, Ellie, I owe you one."

"Count on it, Dan." She smiled at the prospect.

Williams then called a contact at HPD and had him pull Reynolds' address. They man listed two a condo in Honolulu and a boat named the 'Deep Blue Sea', harbored not far from them. He hurried back to where McGarrett waited in the car.

"I got the address of his condo and the harbor where he keeps his boat."

"Boat?" Steve's mind raced hunches and facts merging and clicking into place. "Danno, let's go back to the hotel. I want to talk to Mr. Reynolds."

"Right."

But when they reached the hotel, Mathews' secretary told them both he and Mr. Reynolds had gone for the day. And the green Plymouth was gone.

"Where to, Steve?" Danny asked when they were back in the Mustang.

"The condo?"

"No, Danno, let's try the boat."

"The boat?" But he was already pointing the white sportscar in that direction.

"Don't ask me why, it's just a hunch."

When they reached the harbor, the two men hurried to slip 21.

"You lookin' for Mr. Reynolds?" A young Hawaiian asked. He was polishing a small boat tied next to the empty slip.

"Yeah. He been here today?"

"Sure." The kid gestured to the empty space. "Him and a guy and a woman left about ten minutes ago." He pointed. "That way."

"A woman?" Steve's heart skipped a beat. "What'd she look like?"

"Haole, brown hair, good looking."

"My God, Danno, they've got Nicole."

"Did it look like she was with them willingly?" Williams asked the young man.

"Couldn't tell, man." He shrugged. "She was drunk or something. The bigger guy was carrying her."

Danny turned as McGarrett rushed past him to leap on board the powerboat.

"Hey!" The kid protested. "This isn't mine! I just borrowed it!"

"Well we're just borrowing it, too." Steve told him, untying the lead. "Come on, Danno!" He fixed the boy with a steely gaze. "Okay, you contact the harbor patrol. Tell them Steve McGarrett told you to call. Tell them we're after a murderer."

"Murderer?!"

"Do it!"

The kid scrambled off the boat, almost knocking Williams to the deck in his hurry.

"Okay, Danno. Let's go."

Dan started the powerful engine and headed in the direction Nicole's kidnappers had taken.

*****

"What if they find her body?" Reynolds worried as he carried Nicole to the side. "It won't matter." Mathews soothed, scanning the horizon

"They'll never connect her with us."

"That's easy for you to say." the security man told him.

"It's my car that tried to run her off the road."

"Will you stop worrying!" Matthews snapped

"Toss her over and let's get back. By the time they find her, the convention will be over, we'll be rich and on our way to Switzerland."

Still unconvinced, but unable to think of anything better, Reynolds hoisted Nicole onto the wide wooden railing. "You're sure the drug you gave her isn't gonna wear off?"

"I'm sure. Will you push her, already?"

With a shove, Reynolds pushed Nicole over the side, into the churning water. Then Matthews turned the boat toward shore.

"They've dumped her overboard, Danno!" McGarrett was tearing at his jacket, finally ripping the buttons in his haste

"Pull along side!"

"Right."

McGarrett dove from the side of the boat, heart pounding in his throat, panic tight in his chest. He dove until he was out of breath, but didn't find Nicole. He broke the surface, taking in a lungful of air and diving again.

In the boat, Dan had his gun drawn, trying to stay out of the line of fire. He'd maneuvered beside the larger craft and was managing to get off a shot now and then and still stay out of their target area.

In the water, McGarrett dove again and again until finally he managed to drag Nicole's limp body with him to the surface. Supporting her above the water, he tried to force air into her lungs, but the ungainliness of the choppy water made it impossible. Fear shot through him again, making him frantic. She can't die, he thought, wildly searching for rescue. She can't die!

"This is the harbor patrol!" A voice boomed. "Put down your weapons!"

Steve looked up to see a patrol yacht pulling up beside Reynolds' boat. "Thank God." He breathed, swimming towards them, Nicole in tow. "Thank God."

Two of the officers pulled the unconscious woman aboard and began CPR. By the time Dan and McGarrett had climbed over the side, Nicole was conscious, spewing water onto the deck as her lungs filled with air. McGarrett dropped beside her, unmindful of the men who were being handcuffed behind him. His total focus was the woman beside him and forcing her to survive. Williams stood beside them, watching as Steve gathered Nicole into his arms, hugging her to him. Both soaked to the skin, they made an interesting pair.

Danno grinned. A very interesting pair.

Danno pulled into McGarrett's driveway. The ex-cop sat on his front steps, gazing moodily at the gently rolling sea. Danny walked to stand beside Steve, his shadow falling across the older man's boots.

You okay, Steve?"

Without looking up, McGarrett nodded. "Yeah, fine, Danno." He looked up at his friend. "You talk to HPD?"

"Yeah. Our client's been booked, along with his head of security. You were right, they were planning to rob the gem cutters convention. Reynolds' car not only matched the partial plate Nicole gave us but had a scrape of white paint on the fender that matched her rental. McGarrett nodded. "Where's Nicole?" Danny asked, scanning the strip of beach.

Steve jerked his thumb toward the house. "Packing."

Williams frowned. "Why?"

McGarrett looked genuinely surprised at the question. "The case is over. She's going home."

"She wasn't here for a case, Steve. She was here to see you."

"Because you brought her here." McGarrett pointed out.

"Are you sorry?"

"Well, no. . ."

"Does she have a job to get back to on the Mainland?" Williams persisted.

"Well, no..."

"Don't you enjoy having her here?"

"Yes, of course."

Danny gave an exasperated sigh. "Then why is she going home?"

"Well -- because..."

"Steve." Williams took his friend's arm and pulled him to his feet. "Let's take a walk on the beach." The two friends walked, Danno struggling to put his thoughts into words. Much as he knew Steve hated taking advice, Williams felt this time he needed it. Badly. "Steve," he began, "Why don't you want her to stay in Hawaii?"

McGarrett glanced at him. "Who says I don't?"

"You, I guess. Otherwise she wouldn't be leaving."

"She's a big girl, Danno, she can stay if she wants."

Williams shook his head at the lameness of his friend's logic. "She won't stay if she thinks you don't want her to." He took a breath. "Retirement doesn't necessarily mean you're getting old, Steve." McGarrett turned a sharp gaze on his companion. "I mean, this security business was just supposed to be something to do part time, a side venture. But you're acting like it's your career." He desperately wanted his friend to understand, but the words weren't coming out right. "You don't have to be afraid of commitment and you don't have to be afraid to relax and enjoy yourself. Something terrible won't happen if you have a good time instead of working." He paused. "And companionship never hurt anybody. Even you."

McGarrett swallowed eyes on the horizon. "You think that's what it is, Danno?" He asked softly.

"You think I'm hiding behind the business to avoid commitment? To kid myself into thinking I'm not getting older?"

"Older, Steve, not old. Not as long as you have interests and friends. And me. We won't let each other get old." He stopped and McGarrett stood beside him. "If you really don't care if Nicole goes back, fine. But if you want her to stay, if you think there might be a chance for a few weeks of fun, don't shut her out because you're afraid the fun might turn into a commitment. Don't shortchange her or yourself."

McGarrett squinted at the sun for a long moment, then turned to smile at his friend. "How'd you get to be so smart, Danno?" He reached out to cup the younger man's shoulder.

"Learned from a master." Williams smiled.

"Yeah, well the master's getting stupid in his old -- excuse me -- older age." He slapped Danny's arm. "Let's go."

They met Nicole as she came out of the house, bag in hand. "I'm ready." She said.

Danno noticed sadness in the deep brown eyes.

"Where are you going?" Steve's tone was innocence itself.

"The airport?" She sounded uncertain.

McGarrett shook his head and took her case, walking back to the house. Nicole stared after him, then turned to Danny. The younger man grinned at her. "You like to jog in the morning?" He asked, impishly.

PAU

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