Of Cops And Donuts

Of Cops And Donuts

A post for Winterfest Online 2021

By C. K. Armistead, 2021

 

 

“Whoa!”  Detective Greg Hughes exclaimed, “Decent coffee and fresh donuts?  Who are you people, and what have you done with the DA’s office staff?”

“Hey, just because Radcliffe here found a new bakery that will set us up with decent coffee and donuts for what our staff fund can afford, that doesn’t mean we’re pod people or something!” Joe Maxwell returned, grinning as he sipped his own cup of actually really good coffee.

Catherine Chandler smiled at the men and told them “There’s a new bakery in the neighborhood that got some startup help from a foundation I work with.  I suggested the Staff Coffee Committee speak to them and see if we could get a better set up than the sludge and stale lumps of dough we had before. “ 

Catherine smiled again, thinking of Katelyn and Jonah, and their little bakery business.  They were Tunnel kids who had grown up and gotten formal food service training to go along with everything William had taught them, and opened their own bakery, just down the street from her office.  Seems a Helper owned the building, and had both a storefront, AND an apartment available.  They were doing quite well so far.

Just then, the other participants in the meeting came in, and they had to get down to less pleasant business.

The meeting was about the child abuse cases she had investigated and prepared for trial several months ago.  The trials were finally over, and the men had all been convicted.  There was also evidence of another group of men abusing children and selling images of the children in explicit situations to other men.  They were discussing how to go about cooperating with the FBI on the investigation, and now they were winding down.  Greg had been detailing how they were to pass on any evidence they came across, and to whom, and Joe was summarizing everything prior to ending the meeting.  Catherine’s mind was wandering, remembering how Vincent had helped her recover after she had worked herself far too hard on that abuse investigation.  He would be glad to hear that the verdicts were in, and the men convicted. 

“Hey Radcliffe, “Joe teased, “Are we keeping you awake here?”  Evidently he had asked her a question.

“Sorry, Joe, I was remembering how beat I was at the end of that investigation.”

“It’s OK, Radcliffe.  I just asked if you had anything to add before we close this meeting,” Joe replied.

“Not really, just that I hope the FBI can get these guys on Federal charges.” Catherine replied.

“We’re all agreed on that!  Ok, meeting adjourned until two weeks from now!”

As they gathered their things and got ready to get back to their desks, Joe stopped Catherine and said “Seriously, Radcliffe, you OK?”

“Yeah, Joe, I’m fine.”  She said with a small smile.  “I learned my lesson on those cases.  I won’t let myself get so run down again.  Landing in the hospital won’t help those kids, as one of my doctors very forcefully reminded me.”

“Yeah, well, be sure you take care.  You’ve been looking a little green around the gills again lately.  Anything I should know?” he asked. 

Catherine smiled, “Yes, as a matter of fact, there is, but I need to get a few things in order before I tell you.” With that, she left the conference room and went to her desk.

Let him ponder THAT for awhile!  She thought to herself.  He won’t like what I have to tell him, at least not the way it will affect my job.  He’ll be happy for me, though.

 

She sat down at her desk and checked her watch.  Hmm, almost lunch time.  She should call Jenny and see if she was free.  She’d gotten permission before she and Vincent were joined to introduce Jenny to the Tunnels, and Vincent, of course.  Jenny had been her maid of honor, and was now a valued helper, and NOT just because she gave them full sets of very much needed textbooks that were rejected from the printer because of minor defects.  Now that she and Vincent were sure about her pregnancy, she needed her most loyal Topside friend to be in the loop.  Phone call made, and lunch planned for 30 minutes from now at Henry and Lin’s restaurant, Catherine got her things together, especially her notebook full of to-do lists. She had lots to juggle now, with preparing for the baby, and getting the refurbishing of the brownstone her father left her finished.  Number one on her list now, though, was how to tell Joe about the baby. 

Joe knew she had gotten married, but not much more than that his name was Vincent Wells, and he lived pretty much in seclusion.  She had been stunned to find that Peter had filled out a birth certificate for Vincent, and gotten a Helper who was also a lawyer to draw up papers showing Jacob Wells as Vincent’s adoptive parent.  Peter’s address was used.  The papers were filed quietly, and nobody ever questioned any of it. This way, she and Vincent were legally wed, since Master Po was legally able to officiate at weddings, and he signed their license along with Peter and Jenny as witnesses.  She saw to it that their license was obtained and filed quietly.  It paid to have people in the County Clerk’s office who were Helpers, and also owed you favors. Since Catherine was in and out of that office at times looking for documentation on cases when the clerks were overloaded, nobody even paid any attention to her presence there when she brought the paperwork in.  She kept her maiden name for professional purposes, and also because the less topside attention she drew to her marriage, the better.

Time to stop the woolgathering, Chandler!   I have to get moving if I’m going to meet Jenny on time!  She thought as she grabbed her bag and hurried out the door.

 

 

Meanwhile, at J & K Bakery, just down the street from the building the D.A.’s office was in, Greg Hughes was waiting in line to pick up donuts and a service container of coffee for his office. 

This place sure seems popular.  No wonder, though, the donuts are out of this world. He thought as he waited. He smiled as he thought how Chandler had slid one of the bakery’s business cards to him right before they got the meeting started.

The young woman behind the counter was cute, and very, very busy.  Her sandy, curly hair was trying its best to escape from the ponytail and cap she had contained it in.  Her nametag said Katelyn.  Busy as she was, she had a bright smile for each and every customer, and a kind word, too.  Greg was impressed. 

Not surprising, though, if Chandler is a friend of theirs, they have to be good people running this place.  I’ll make sure the word gets around the precinct.  Heck, the coffee and donuts will do that for them all on their own!  When he got close to the counter, he made sure he picked up a few business cards to take with him and put on the table by the donuts and coffee.  Otherwise, he’d spend the next several hours hearing “Hey, Hughes!  Where did the coffee and donuts come from?”

“Can I help you, sir?” Said a smiling Katelyn as Greg was at last the next to be served. 

“Yes, I called in and ordered three dozen mixed, and a service container of medium roast about 15 minutes ago.  Greg Hughes.”

“Ah, yes.  Catherine’s friend!” Katelyn said, still smiling.

“How did you know?” the detective asked.

“She told us her friend Greg was coming to a meeting today, and would no doubt want to know where the coffee and donuts came from!” (“He IS a policeman, you know.” Catherine had added, but Katelyn wisely didn’t share that statement.)  Katelyn smiled, adding “We have your order all ready to go, do you need any help transporting it?”

Greg looked at the stacked boxes and the coffee container, which had a carrying handle, and decided the precinct was close enough that he’d make it.  “Nah, I’m good. Do you have a big enough bag to stack the donut boxes in, though? That would help.”

“Indeed we do!” said a new voice next to Greg. 

Greg looked up to see a dark haired young man smiling, and already placing the donut boxes in a very large tote bag with the J&K logo on it. “Hi, I’m Jonah!” he said offering his hand for Greg to shake.

“Glad to meet you! Any friends of Chandler’s, especially ones that make donuts like these, are friends of mine!” Greg said, returning Jonah’s handshake, and nodding at Katelyn.

Jonah and Katelyn smiled, and said “Likewise!” 

“Catherine is a very special person.  She’s done so much for us.” Katelyn said.

“Yeah, Cathy’s a good friend.  She’s been there, willing to listen when nobody wanted to hear the truth – about a case, or my reaction to it.  She’s a very special lady.” Greg said.

“Well, you better get that coffee to your office before it gets cold,” Jonah said, as Katelyn turned to the next person in line.

“Sorry if I held up the line.” Greg offered to the person at the counter.

“That’s ok.  I’m a friend of Catherine’s, too,” the lanky young man, who was obviously a bicycle messenger, offered with a smile. 

Greg just smiled, waved, and went on his way.

“Speaking of Catherine,” Benny the bicycle messenger said, handing a note to Katelyn, “She sent this for you, and my tip was enough to buy an apple pie and a large to-go coffee!”

They all laughed.  The rush was quieting down, and Katelyn let Jonah take over the counter while she read Catherine’s note to see if there was anything she needed to send as a reply.

The note was a request to keep an eye out for men acting strangely, and /or pestering children or young teens around the shop. Catherine further asked that they keep an extra close eye on their tunnel runners, even though the young people had done some “self defense” training with Catherine.

Katelyn wrote a quick “Will do”, and gave the note to Benny. She also wrote a quick note with the same request to the “From Loving Hearts” craft shop down the block.  They got space low rent from another helper because the shop (run by tunnel folk) made money for the foundation that Catherine administered for the benefit of the tunnels and their helpers, as well as other worthy causes around the city.

“Hey Benny”, Katelyn said “Stop at Loving Hearts and drop this off for me, will ya? There’s an extra donut in it for ya.”

“Sure thing, Kate,” Benny replied, grabbing the note, his favorite type of donut, handed to him by Jonah, and heading out the door.

Benny stopped at the craft shop, and found Kanin minding the store.  He was arranging a few of the small garden sculptures he had made from some of the larger pieces chipped out when making a new chamber.

“Hey, Benny,” Kanin said.

“Hey yourself,” Benny responded, “I got a message from Katelyn for ya.”

“Thanks, Benny,” Kanin said as he opened the note.

“I like this one a lot!” Benny pointed to a sculpted panel showing a tortoise and a hare.

“Of course you do,” said Kanin, “that one took me a month to finish!”

Benny eyed the price tag and whistled.  “I bet it did at that! Gotta fly! See ya!” Benny laughed as he went out to go back to work.

Kanin frowned as he considered Katelyn’s note.  He knew she was just passing on Catherine’s warning, but he was determined to be up here when the kids were helping.  He wouldn’t let anything happen to ANY of the kids.

He passed the message along to Cullen, who came up for the “closing shift” at the store that afternoon.

“I’ve got Samantha and Kipper working as dusting and straightening helpers from 3 to 5 today.  I pity anybody who tries to mess with either of those two!” Cullen remarked.

“Yeah, well, I’m going to speak with Catherine and Vincent about this tonight if I can catch them right after supper.” Kanin replied. “I have to talk to Catherine about some work I’m helping Mr. Carling with on the brownstone anyway.”

“Good idea.  Maybe we can get them both to speak to the next Council meeting.  We need all eyes and ears out for this.  We can’t let anybody hurt ANY kids if we can help it.”  Cullen said. 

 

Back at the controlled mayhem of the DA’s office, Catherine was just returning to her never-ending workload after a very pleasant lunch with an already self-proclaimed “Aunt Jenny”. Catherine smiled. Jenny was ecstatic for her and Vincent, knowing how much they both loved children.  She had also suggested that the best approach to Joe was the direct approach, and inviting him to dinner was probably a good way to introduce him to Vincent.  He’d understand more readily why she had to be extra careful with this pregnancy if he met Vincent.  Jenny had agreed to be there, too, to help Joe feel better about the whole thing.  Now she had to convince Vincent - and Father.

When she brought that subject up to Vincent as they were resting together before going to dinner, she was surprised by his response.  “I think that is an excellent idea, Catherine.  You need an ally like Joe above.  Jenny is a good friend, but she doesn’t see you as often as Joe does.  He can be much more effective at helping me keep you, and our child, safe until you are ready to stop your work.” 

“You’d risk him putting two and two together about you and all the killings associated with my cases just to have one more person trying to make me eat on a regular schedule?” she asked, feigning astonishment.

“I suggest we have the dinner at the Pei’s restaurant.  The basement small banquet room has an easy and safe exit for me if he should be too distressed by the answers he comes up with when adding two and two.”  Vincent offered.

“You’re right about the location.  I hope Joe reacts as favorably as Jenny seems to think he will.  She and Joe have been getting really close lately.  Maybe she knows what she’s talking about.  How do we handle Father?”

“Father will be concerned, of course, but I think he knows we will eventually have to let Mr. Maxwell in on the whole secret.  I caught him muttering something about having the District Attorney as a Helper the other day…” Vincent said

“It’s true.  Joe will want to know where I disappear to all the time, and once he meets you, he’ll know we don’t live in my apartment.” Catherine answered.

“True, he might think I’d be too apt to scare the neighbors’ dogs.” Vincent replied with that little one-fang-showing smile she adored. 

“Oh, you,” She answered, swatting playfully at his arm, “he’d probably take one look at the size of you and know for a certainty that you would never live in a place with such dinky little sofas, as he termed them.”

“I could assure him that we spend very little time on the sofas.  Mostly on the rug in front of the fire, or on the balcony, or in the bed…”he said this as he nibbled on her ear.

“Stop,” she said, gasping and giggling helplessly, “Just stop that.”  She regained some control.  “We need to get to dinner before someone comes looking for us.  Also, the baby and I are hungry!”

“Ah, you are correct on both points, counselor.  If you are willingly offering to eat a good dinner at this point, far be it from me to prevent you from doing so!” Vincent replied, remembering the earlier bouts of morning sickness that seemed to linger long into the day.  He was so glad she seemed to be past that.  He suffered right along with her.

As they entered the Dining Hall, they saw Kanin waving to them from a table where he was seated with Olivia, Luke, and Father and Mary.

They made their way to the table, and Catherine sat down next to Mary while Vincent went to get their food.

“Well, Catherine, I am very glad to see you here!” Father offered by way of greeting.

“Thank you, Father, I actually feel hungry tonight,” Catherine answered.

“Perhaps the morning sickness has passed, or is passing,” Mary offered with a smile.  “You look better, dear, not as pale as you were.”

“That’s good; then it isn’t just my imagination that things are finally smoothing out with this pregnancy.  I’ve been a little afraid that this was going to be one long and worrying ordeal for me, and especially for Vincent.”

“Every pregnancy is different, but things usually settle down toward the end of the first trimester, so you’re right on schedule,” said Mary with a smile.

Vincent arrived with the food, and Catherine dug in with gusto. 

“It does my heart good to see you here and eating well again, Catherine,” said William from behind her, with a dessert plate in his hand.  “Now I have hope that you’ll enjoy this, too,” he said as he set the slice of chocolate cake down.  It was big enough for her and Vincent to share it.

“Thank you, William.  I will let Vincent have at least a few bites of the cake, but I have lots of calories to make up for,” Catherine said.

Conversation for the rest of the meal was light, they all chatted about the progress of the children’s music group, and various other topics, then Kanin turned to Catherine and said “We got the message you passed to Katelyn and Jonah  passed on to us at Loving Hearts today.”

“Good, I knew Katelyn likely would send the word along.  Do you have any suggestions for helping to keep our message runners and delivery help safe?”

“I plan to take as many of the late afternoon and evening shifts up there as I can, so I can be there if anything goes down.  I know some of the kids can take care of themselves pretty well, but I don’t want to take any chances,” Kanin replied.

“I agree with your caution, Kanin,” Vincent said.  “Perhaps we can have a few refresher classes of the streetwise self defense course.  Especially now that Isaac is back from his vacation, he might be able to squeeze in a session or two for the children.”

Isaac had become a Helper not too long after he saw Vincent that first time when helping Catherine search for him as he ran from the Silks.  He helped Vincent train sentries, and did some self-defense courses for the children and the women who, like Catherine, worked in the world Above.

“That’s an excellent idea,” Father put in.  “I assume we are concerned about that group of child abusers you briefed the Council about last week, Catherine?”

“Yes, Father,” Catherine answered, “we’ve heard that they are expanding their activities here in the city, and now the FBI is helping with the investigation, hoping to add federal charges, depending upon the evidence we find.”

“I’m also glad,” she added, “that Isaac is back.  Even though I enjoyed teaching the girls in the first class, with Isaac’s help, I am in no shape to be doing that much rough housing right now!”

Everyone agreed with that statement. 

“Well, “Kanin said,” I guess we’d better be getting back to our chambers to get Luke ready for story time.”

“Yes,” Olivia agreed, “We want to get him bathed and hopefully calmed down a bit so he gets sleepy during the story!”

Vincent turned to Father and Mary and said “Catherine and I have a request to make of the Council, and I thought we’d run it by you two first.”

“Sorry to eavesdrop,” William’s voice came from the end of the table where he stopped to see if anyone needed anything else, “but since I’m here now, and this makes a quorum of the Council, why don’t you run it by me, too?”

“A very good idea, William,” Father said, being pretty sure already what the request was.

“In the interest of keeping Catherine and the baby as safe as possible while she is still able to work Above, we would like to introduce Joe Maxwell to me, and possibly to the Tunnels.  Catherine’s friend Jenny is also dating him seriously, so he’d probably need to find out about us soon in any case.” Vincent made his case succinctly. 

“Vincent, we’ve all heard Catherine’s, and some of Jenny’s ‘Joe stories’, so I think we’ve been expecting this,” Mary said.  “I for one would be glad to meet the famous Mr. Maxwell.”

“I agree, Vincent.  I think we need another ally in the fight to make sure Catherine eats properly!” William offered.

“Well, then,” Father said, “As I also would like to finally meet the estimable Mr. Maxwell, I say you may go ahead and meet with him, and bring him on down.”

“You aren’t nervous about the Attorney General knowing about this place, and about Vincent?” Catherine asked.

“No, dear,” Mary said, “You have told us about Mr. Maxwell, and if YOU trust him, so will we.”

“I’m glad you trust my judgment so much.” Catherine said, “I’m sure Joe will have a few uncomfortable moments when he thinks back over some of my past cases, but I’m certain he’ll come to the conclusion I have, that Vincent was just acting in self defense, or in defense of me.  As for finding out about this place, I think he’ll be grateful for all you do to keep those who would use it for criminal purposes from using it, and giving help to the hopeless like you do, you help decrease crimes of desperation, so, I think we’ll be OK.”

“When are you planning to meet Mr. Maxwell?” Father asked

“This Friday evening at the Pei’s restaurant was offered as a good time and place,” Vincent answered.

“Fine, then we’ll all arrange to be here that evening so you can introduce him to the Council when you bring him down,” Father said.

“Does Mr. Maxwell have a sweet tooth, Catherine?” William asked.

“Well, he does like good pastries, but his only chocolate addiction that I know of is chocolate covered cheese nuggets,” she answered.

“Huh.  Well, I tried those once.  They aren’t as bad as they sound.  I’ll make a chocolate cheesecake and you all can have dessert when you bring him down, so don’t overdo the fortune cookies at Pei’s!” William said.

“Oh, that will be wonderful.  Joe will want to move in if he tastes your cheesecake, William,” Catherine said with a smile.

“If his visit is the cause of us having William’s chocolate cheesecake, I think he will ALWAYS be welcome here!” Mary exclaimed, and everyone laughed. 

“I’ll call Jenny and Henry tomorrow morning and make sure everything is set up for Friday then.  Thank you all for this,” Catherine said.

“Well, I better get back to the kitchen and check on the crew, and some of you better get ready to read at Story Hour!” William said on his way back to the kitchen.

Vincent and Catherine went back to their chamber

“Are you certain you want to read tonight, Catherine?” Vincent asked, “Aren’t you tired?”

“Not too tired,” she said.  “Besides, “I Can’t,” Said the Ant is an old favorite, and I love reading it to the kids.  It isn’t very long.”

“Just as long as you aren’t echoing the frosting by the end,” Vincent added.

“Hey, the frosting was only observing that what the ants and spiders were doing was exhausting,” Catherine laughed.  “That rhyming and silliness are the main reasons kids enjoy that book.”

As Catherine predicted, the children loved “I Can’t, “Said the Ant (Written by Polly Cameron in 1961, Big Book edition, Scholastic Publishing, 1989), the story of a teapot that fell off the counter and broke her spout, and how the ants and a few spiders helped her.  Catherine had vaguely remembered the book from childhood, and a helper found her a copy in a “Friends of the Library” sale. 

Of course, given that the last line of the book is “Polly, put the kettle on, we’ll all have tea,” William had herb tea and cookies for everyone. 

The next morning, Catherine called both the Peis and Jenny to make sure that Friday would work for everyone. Then she went to Joe’s office.

“Hey Radcliffe, come on in!” Joe called as she approached.  He had just gotten off the phone with Jenny, so he knew what was coming.

“That’s quite a smile, Joe,” Catherine said, “are you that anxious to talk to me?”

“I just got off the phone with Jen.  She says we’re having dinner with you AND your husband this Friday.”

“Well, yes, you are.  I wanted you to meet Vincent so you’d understand a few things about me better.  We also have some news to share.”

“You’re going to have a baby, aren’t you?” Joe asked, still smiling.

“Yes,” Catherine answered, “did Jen tell you that, too?”

“No, but I suspected.  You don’t guzzle coffee all day anymore, you actually eat lunch, and I noticed you looking pretty green when somebody had anything that smelled strong for lunch at their desk. I’ve got sisters who have kids, you know.” Joe said.

“Well, I want you and Vincent to get to know each other.  He’s wanted to meet you for a long time, but we had to make sure meeting him wouldn’t put you in too awkward of a position.”

After a pause, Catherine continued, “Joe, Vincent is very different.  He can’t just walk out in public and go where he pleases.  His differences make some people fear him, and assume things about him that just aren’t true.”

“What do you mean, Cath?”  Joe asked, beginning to be a little concerned.

“Well, Vincent’s appearance is a bit startling.  He’s a big guy, and his face is different.  I think he’s beautiful, but some people are scared of him.   Don’t worry, once you meet him, you’ll understand, and you’ll understand why I have to be really careful with this pregnancy.  We’ll all talk about it in detail on Friday, okay?”

“Okay, Cath.  I am so happy some kid gets to have you for a mommy.  Jenny is going to be in seventh heaven!”

“Yeah, when I told her, she was already calling herself ‘Aunt Jenny.’  I’m kind of surprised she didn’t tell you.”

“I think she wanted you to share your own news, Cath.  She knows how happy you are, I do, too.  I can see it in your eyes.  Strange looks or no, Vincent is one lucky guy.”

 

That night, Catherine was really tired, and she went to bed early.  Vincent, who had stayed up, was a bit worried.  He spoke to Father and Mary about it.

“It’s perfectly normal, Vincent.  Catherine is just tired, and probably has a bit of emotional stress what with having made the arrangements for Mr. Maxwell to meet you Friday night,” Mary reassured him.

“Yes, Son, Catherine is dealing with a lot at the moment, I’ve no doubt a few of her earlier “late nights” are catching up with her, that’s all.  She’s perfectly healthy, and all has been normal with her checkups all along.  Peter and I would not keep anything from you, you know that,” Father offered, backing Mary up.

“Why don’t you turn in early too?” Mary suggested, coming over to pat his cheek and look up into his eyes.  “You’re pretty tired yourself, aren’t you?”

Vincent smiled down at this woman who was the only mother he knew. “Yes, Mary, I am tired, too.  I shall take your excellent advice and go to bed, where at least if I cannot sleep, I can keep a close eye on Catherine.” He smiled at Father and Mary; “Thank you both, and goodnight.”

Their goodnights followed him as he left the library chamber and headed to the chamber he and Catherine now shared.  The bond told him Catherine was sleeping peacefully, so he went on to their bathing chamber first. 

Vincent lingered a bit in the bath, enjoying the relaxing warmth of the water in the bathing chamber.  He suddenly felt something odd along the bond though, so he got out and dried off as quickly as he could.  He snagged his bathrobe and made it into their bedchamber just in time to see Catherine thrashing on the bed, saying “No! Not my baby! You can’t have my baby! Vincent!!” she shouted. 

Dropping quickly onto the bed beside her, Vincent grabbed her wrists, pulled her close and then into his arms, holding her tight as he said, “Catherine! Wake up.  I’m here, I’m right here, you’re safe; our baby is safe.”

There was a strangely familiar flavor to her terror.  As she woke, she clung to him.  “Oh, Vincent, that was awful!  I haven’t been that frightened since you were so very ill that time.”

He kissed her head, and answered “I felt something was familiar about that nightmare, Catherine.  I believe you just had your own version of the terrible visions I was visited with when I was ill.”

“I’m so sorry my subconscious brought all that up again.”  She sighed.  “You certainly had enough worry from it at the time.  It was awful.  Someone was keeping me against my will, and they told me they wanted our baby.  I couldn’t feel you, I was so frightened!”

“Shhh, Catherine, I know.  I could feel it, and it felt all too familiar to me.  That blankness where you are in my heart was the worst feeling I’ve ever had, even if it was just a bad dream.  I know it felt the same to you just now in your nightmare.”

“I suppose thinking about Joe and telling him about you and the baby brought it up.  Thank God our bond is as strong as ever.  At least we know the nightmare was not a prophetic one.” 

“I have no doubt that it was false, Catherine.  We are together, you are already doing a desk job, Moreno is already out of the picture, and Joe is hale and healthy, and from what you told me earlier, absolutely thrilled that you are going to be a mother.”

Catherine smiled and tightened her arms around her husband. “Yes, he sounded almost ready to start calling himself “Uncle Joe” to Jenny’s “Aunt Jenny.”  This little one is going to be very well loved, both Above and Below.”

“I know, and I am grateful, Catherine,” Vincent said, kissing her temple, “I only hope Joe is still as thrilled about it once he meets me. He may have a few uncomfortable moments.”

“I think it will be all right, Vincent.  I know Joe pretty well by this point, and I have a strong feeling he’ll think about those cases and then think about what he would have done if he’d been there instead of you.  They’d have been shot, but they’d be just as dead.  He knows those men were trying to hurt me, or kill me. “

Moving so they could both lie down, Vincent kissed her again, her lips this time, and then said, “I pray you are right, Catherine.   Having Joe as a Helper, and an ally in keeping you safe would give me great peace of mind.  Now, I think it’s time we got some rest.  “

“Just rest?” Catherine asked, teasing him, “Or did you have a little recreation in mind first?”

He rolled onto his back and turned his head to look at her “I surrender to your judgment, Counselor, whatever you think is best.”

She laughed and leaned over to kiss him, and found herself suddenly on her back, Vincent above her, looking with absolute adoration into her eyes.  “I love you,” they both said at the same instant, smiling, then kissing again, and gently reaffirming that love before finally easing into restful sleep.

 

 

 

 J and K Bakery had become sort of an annex of the local police precincts and the D.A.’s office for quick meetings at lunch time.  The bakery also made Cornish Pasties for the lunch trade, so the people coming to meet informally at lunch could get a nice savory pie, AND something indulgent for dessert, if they wanted. On Thursday, Catherine found herself in a booth at the bakery with Joe and Greg Hughes. 

“Cathy, I cannot thank you enough for helping these kids set up this business,” Greg said as he pushed his empty plate away.  “That was the best lunch I’ve had in ages.”

“Yeah, and it must be good, even Miss Notorious For Not Eating Lunch here polished her pasty off in record time.” Joe teased, just for good measure.

“Hey, I know a good thing when I see it.” Catherine countered.  “And besides, these two grew up with friends of mine; I even know some of their teachers, so I KNEW they’d be able to make a go of it.”

“Well, now that we’ve all demolished our lunches,” Greg said, “guess we better get back to business.  My FBI contacts have told me they suspect the ring we’ve been after is passing video cassettes back and forth somewhere right here in this neighborhood.  Seems like a suicide move to me,” he continued, “with all the law enforcement presence around here, but these guys evidently feel invincible.”

“They won’t be for long.” Joe stated.  “We are watching for them, and sooner or later, they’ll screw up.”

“Yes,” Catherine agreed, “I just hope it’s sooner, and that no kids are really hurt in the meantime.”

“Amen to that,” Greg agreed.

“So, I guess it’s back to the salt mines we go, eh, Radcliffe?” Joe asked

“I guess so, Boss.” Catherine replied.

They took their leave of Greg, having agreed to meet with more members of the task force the next week, right there in the bakery for an afternoon meeting.  It was about the only time everyone needed could attend.

 Friday afternoon, Catherine was just about to start on the last remaining folder in her in-box when Joe approached her desk.  “Hey, Radcliffe, take off a little early, why don’t you?”

“Why, Joe?”Catherine asked, “Do I look as exhausted as I feel?”

“I don’t think so,” he answered with a smirk, “I just thought you’d like a little time to relax with Vincent before you guys meet us for dinner.” Before she could respond, he said “And quit worrying about how I’m going to react to meeting him.  I know how much you must love him, and if he doesn’t love you at least that much, he’s a crazy man, and I just don’t see you sticking with a crazy man.”

Catherine smiled, and blushed a bit. “If only you’d seen some of the ones I fell for before Vincent came along…”

“Oh, c’mon, Radcliff, “ Joe teased, “Nobody could have guessed how screwed up Bass had gotten, and Burch, well, let’s just say I figured you’d give him the heave ho as soon as you had a chance to see what he was really like.”

“Joe, Eliot isn’t a bad person,” Catherine stated. “He just chose not to see what was right under his nose at the time, and he wasn’t the guy for me.  I had already met Vincent, after all, and NOBODY measures up against him.”

“Well, now I am looking forward to meeting this paragon even more!” Joe teased some more.  “Go on home, Cath.  Jen and I will see you and Vincent at the restaurant later. “

“Thanks, Joe, “Catherine answered.  “Save room for dessert, I have a feeling you’ll be following us home for a special treat after dinner.” 

He smiled and went back to his office and hoped she had picked up something from the bakery to serve.  She didn’t have the greatest culinary reputation.

Catherine smiled to herself on her way out.  No doubt Joe was dubious about what sort of treat she’d serve at “home”, which he probably thought was her apartment, at least for now.  He knew she was having the brownstone her father left her renovated. He was in for a big surprise, or maybe not, given how many times she’d vanished in the past three years and no one but Peter seemed to have any idea where she was.  Oh, well.  All would be explained soon enough.

 

Jenny, in the meantime, had done her best to prepare Joe for meeting Vincent.  She’d told him that Vincent’s appearance was unusual, he wasn’t deformed in any way, just very different. Having heard something similar from Cathy, Joe thought Vincent must have some inherited facial deformity or something.   Jenny had also told him that she’d met his family, and seen where they live.  “They like to live a bit in isolation” was how she put it.  Joe pondered that one.  He knew there had been times when Cathy had just seemed to disappear.  He was now willing to bet she was staying with Vincent and his family.  He was glad to know she had such a place, such a support system.  He didn’t have to drive himself crazy with worry anymore.  Jenny seemed to feel the same way, and laughed at him when she could tell by the look on his face that he had made the connection. 

Unbeknownst to Jenny, or Cathy, Joe had looked into the slashing deaths that had happened in proximity to certain cases Cathy had worked on.  He came to the conclusion that if Vincent was “different”, and had killed to protect Cathy, well, he was only acting in her defense, and he would have done the same.  The victims would have been full of bullet holes instead of slashed, but hey, you used the weapons you had. Yeah, Cathy was in for a pleasant surprise.  Joe was prepared to really like Vincent, in spite of how he looked.  After all, nobody else had put that sappy smile on Cathy’s face, or that light in her eyes. 

As Joe and Jenny were entering the restaurant, they were greeted by a familiar but unexpected voice. “Joe, Jenny!” Peter Alcott called from the hostess’ desk, “How are you?  Are you meeting Cathy for dinner, or just out on your own?”

“Hi Peter,” Jenny said, hugging him briefly, “Actually, we’re here to meet Cathy AND Vincent.”

“Yeah” Joe added, “I finally proved I could be trusted, I guess.”

“Oh, I’ve been expecting you’d get an invitation any day now, Joe.  You and Jenny are awfully close, and Cathy values your friendship.  You’ll get along great with Vincent.  I’ve known him since he was a baby, too, you know.”

“Do tell,” Joe said smiling, “and should we be talking so freely about him here? I got the feeling he’s something of a secret.”

“Vincent and Catherine helped us save this restaurant,” Lin said.  “We owe them a lot.  I have known Vincent and his family since I was a child and first came to this country.  My grandfather helps them with herbs for medicine.” She smiled and added, “Will you be joining the party Dr. Peter?  I am sure Catherine and Vincent won’t mind.  I understand there is to be a special dessert served in Father’s chamber afterwards.”

“Oh, William’s making something special?”  Peter said, “I had heard rumors.  Actually, Cathy called and asked me to come along if I could, so I could answer any questions Joe might have before he meets the family.”

“Well, then, all of you come this way, please.  Vincent and Catherine are waiting in the downstairs banquet room.”  Lin led them down a narrow stair to an ornate door.  She opened the door, and called, “Catherine, Vincent, your guests have arrived.”

“Thank you, Lin.” Catherine said. She turned and greeted Jenny with a hug, and Peter, too, and then Joe.  Taking Joe’s hand, she led him over to where Vincent was standing with his back to the room, pouring tea.

Joe looked at the tall man in front of him and noted the long hair, and the very broad shoulders.  Vincent turned just as they got to him, and Joe was surprised, but not unpleasantly.  He took in the leonine features, and the fur- backed hands that had what looked like pretty sharp nails.  He was a little startled, but the files he had read made even more sense now. 

Noting the more positive than not reaction, Catherine spoke. “Joe, this is my husband, Vincent.  Vincent, this is my boss, good friend, and tormentor, Joe Maxwell.”

“Hey, now, I don’t torment her any more than anyone else!” Joe defended with a smile.  He stuck out his hand. “Vincent, it is very good to finally meet you. “ Vincent took his hand, and Joe had a moment of shock at the hair and the claws, but it wasn’t completely unexpected, so he recovered quickly.

“It is an honor to meet you, Joe, and to know that I now have an ally in making sure Catherine eats properly and stays safe while she is working above,” Vincent said.

“Oh, I’ll watch her like a hawk, and I won’t let her go out on anymore witness interviews unless a big, burly, well-armed policeman goes with her.  She isn’t doing that many interviews anymore anyway, and those witnesses usually come to the office.” Joe countered. 

“You are remarkably calm about meeting me, Joe.  Catherine said she prepared you a little, am I to assume Jennifer also spoke to you?”  Vincent asked.

“Well, yeah,” Joe answered, “I got the heads up from both of them, and you definitely are unique, but you’re not scary; at least, not right now.  I have a feeling it would be another story if you were especially angry.  Say, about someone trying to hurt Cathy.”

Vincent hung his head.  “Yes.  You will have noticed some things in the cases Catherine has been involved with, I am sure.  I only seem to become that enraged when it is Catherine who is threatened. I feel her fear, and I just cannot help but go to her and protect her.  Catherine and I share a bond; I can sense her emotions, and she can sense mine, to a lesser extent, because of it.  That is one reason I react so strongly to her being in danger.

“Wow, you can feel her emotions?” Joe contemplated this for a moment. “That must make some things easier and some things a lot harder for the two of you! I understand your intense reactions even more now, and don’t worry; I would have done the same.  I mean, I’d have shot them, clubbed them, or stabbed them, whatever weapon I had handy if it were me.”  Joe answered.  “It’s all in the past now, anyway, so let’s not dwell on it, all right?”

Vincent smiled “Thank you Joe.  I am greatly relieved to hear you say that.”

Catherine hugged Joe. “Thank you, Joe.  It means a lot to me to have my two favorite guys be friends.”

“Hey, what am I, chopped liver?” Peter said.

“Oh, Peter,” Catherine said, coming to hug him, too, “You know you’ll always be my first best guy.  After all, you are the closest thing to a dad I have now.”

“You bet, Sweetheart” Peter said, “And I’ll always be proud to stand in for your Dad.  He was so proud of you, how you blossomed after your attack.”

“OK, it’s getting mushy in here,” Jenny said “This is supposed to be a festive occasion, and I’m hungry!”

Catherine and the others laughed.  “You’re ALWAYS hungry, Jen!” Catherine teased.  “And you’re right, this is officially a party!” She and Jenny hugged, and everyone went to sit down. 

Lin and Henry brought in the food, and soon everyone was exclaiming over the delicious dishes they served.

 

“Be sure to save room for dessert!” Catherine cautioned. “William will kill me if no one wants the special dessert he’s making!”

“Oh, trust me,” Jenny replied, “If William is making something special, everyone will FIND room for dessert!”

“Who is William?” Joe asked, looking puzzled, “Your personal chef?”

“I wish!” Catherine replied.  “William is one of the people who live where Vincent and I do, and you will see that place and meet those people very soon.”

“And you may not believe your eyes, but it will all be true,” Peter added with a smirk.

“OK, so now you guys have REALLY got me intrigued.  I promise to keep an open mind, and play nice,” Joe told them.

 

After dinner, and before they went Below, Peter addressed Joe.  “Joe, the place you are going to see is very special.  The people who have built this place have taken years to do so, and have worked very hard to keep its existence a secret.  Only a select few get to learn of this world, a world we refer to as “Below”, because it exists far below the city, below the subways, in caverns both man-made and natural.  There are natural wonders there that defy description, and the quality of life they have made for themselves is surprising, given the location and challenges they face. “

Vincent continued the tale “We have few laws in our community.  The first is that we are to offer help to those who need it, and accept the help that is offered when we need it.  We all work together for the good of the community, and we keep our secret with the help of our Helpers Above, like Peter, Jenny, and Catherine. Catherine is also one of us now, since we have been married.”

Joe looked thoughtful for a moment and said, “I will respect the laws of your community, Vincent, and I will keep your secret.  You and your community have kept Cathy alive and safe when I couldn’t, when I failed to see the amount of danger I was sending her into.”

“Oh, Joe, no,” Catherine said, “You did not force me to take on some of those investigations that I went after on my own.  You would have been happy if I had just taken the normal steps, and kept the meetings in the office, or taken back-up with me.  It was my own need to prove myself that made me take chances I really shouldn’t have, and I will never forgive myself for the danger I put Vincent in, or the worry I caused you.  I am glad those days are behind us.”

“Hey, Radcliffe, don’t beat yourself up.  I know you felt like you had to prove you weren’t just a spoiled rich kid.  I took advantage.  From now on, we’ll both do better.  I am really glad, however, that Vincent was on the scene to get you out of the trunk of the car when that maniac who was stalking you tried to kill you.  I realize now why you were so adamant about not going to the police.  He had seen Vincent, hadn’t he?” 

“Yes.  He told me he could see him,” Catherine admitted.  “I should have listened to Vincent and gone Below that night BEFORE I found him in my apartment.”

“These things may well be true, Catherine, but they are past now, and we have a wonderful future ahead of us, including a dessert William has hinted may be a chocolate cheesecake,” Vincent reminded them.

“Oh, yeah,” Jenny said, “we cannot possibly miss a dessert that William is preparing, I vote we go Below!”

“How exactly do we get there?” Joe asked.

“Well, perhaps it would be best to use Lin and Henry’s access, and then you can come back the same way.  It will appear that you were here the whole time.” Catherine suggested.

“Yes,” Peter agreed, “That would probably work best, but it IS a bit of a walk from down here to the main hub.”

“That sounds like a good way to work off some dinner and make room for cheesecake,” Joe offered, “as long as it isn’t too far for Cathy to walk.”

“I assure you, Catherine will be fine.  She walks often, and if she does tire, I can carry her home,” Vincent stated smugly.

“Well, then, let’s GO!” Jenny said, smiling at Lin and asking “Would you like me to see if I can snag a piece of the cheesecake for you and Henry?”

Lin, leading the way to the tunnel access, smiled and said “That’s all right Jenny, I am sure William will send some for us when he goes to pick up his herbs from Grandfather! He likes the herbal foot soak Grandfather prepares for him.”

Soon the two couples and Peter were on their way through the tunnels between Chinatown and the Hub. 

As they began to hear tapping on the pipes, Joe cocked his head and squinted for a moment. “Is that Morse Code?  It doesn’t quite translate, if I remember correctly.”

“Very good, Joe, it is loosely based on Morse Code and has had many shorthand and variant codes added, but it IS our communication system.  We have been seen passing the sentry post in this tunnel, and word has been sent on to Father and William that we are on our way,” Vincent said.

“You have sentries? Well, of course you would.  I am glad to know this system of tunnels is patrolled and kept safe from the less savory elements who might try to hide out down here,” Joe replied.

“Yes, this world does a lot for those of us who live Above, and we never realize it,” Peter said.  “They keep sewer and water lines in good repair, because they don’t want repair crews stumbling upon their world, so the city rarely has to worry about this deeper infrastructure.  We taxpayers ought to be very grateful!”

Soon they came to the entrance to the library. 

“Wow!” Joe exclaimed, “There are enough books in here to furnish four or five libraries!”

“Yes, and they’re all in an order known only to their librarian,” Catherine quipped.

“Vincent knows where to find what he wants in here, and unless I’m very much mistaken, you do as well, Catherine!” Father said from the stair.  He was on his way down with a reference book tucked under one arm, using the stair rail in lieu of his cane, which rested at the bottom of the stair. “Come in, come in,” Father invited.  “I am anxious to meet our special guest.”

Catherine went to Father and helped him trade the stair rail for his cane, and took the reference book and placed it on the desk.  “Our guest is anxious to meet you as well, Father.” 

Joe smiled at the banter between Catherine and Father, and noted that Peter and Vincent seemed to be smiling, too.  He stepped forward and extended his hand.  “Hello.  I’m Joe Maxwell.  I’m pleased to meet you and to find out about this place.”

Father smiled at Joe, and shook his hand. “I am called Father by most people down here, but my name is Jacob Wells.  It is very nice to finally meet you, Joe.  Catherine and Jenny have both told us many amusing stories about you.”

“Indeed they have,” said Mary, entering the room with the tea tray.

“Oh, no,” Joe groaned, “don’t believe everything these two tell you.  I do NOT chain Cathy to her desk, and I do not force her to take work home!”

“Don’t worry Joe, we told him nice things about you, too.  Like how you got so worried about me when the Watcher was stalking me that you broke my door down when I didn’t answer,” Catherine reassured him.

“And I told them how you suffered through a book signing by the world’s most insufferable author for my sake,” Jenny added.

“They have both told me how protective you are of Catherine, and that you have always been a true friend to her,” Vincent offered.

Peter laughed, “Face it Joe, they’ve told the truth, and the truth is, for a tough district attorney, you are a remarkably caring guy.  It’s one reason I recommended you be let in on Cathy’s big secret.”

“Yes, Joe, we have all heard good things about you, and the fact that Catherine and Jenny both see fit to tease you so much, well, that tells me that they care about you a great deal,” Father concluded.

“By the way, Joe, this dear lady”’ Vincent said, indicating Mary, ”Is the closest thing to a mother I have ever known.  This is Mary, who works with all the children, and is always there for her grown children as well.”

“Pleased to meet you, Mary,” said Joe

“I am delighted t meet you, Joe, anyone that Catherine and Jenny are so fond of is someone I’m glad to meet.” Mary said with a smile.

“Come, let’s sit down.  The rest of the Council will be here soon, and I believe William is bringing something he called a ‘Chocolate Cheese Nugget Cheesecake,’ or some such,” Father said.

  “That sounds very interesting, and likely to be tasty,” Joe commented.

“Well, I’d be very skeptical if it was anybody but William making it,” Jenny stated.  “How you can eat those things is beyond me.”

“Hey, don’t knock ‘em ‘till you’ve tried ‘em!” Joe said, laughing.  “You and Cathy won’t even taste them!”

“That’s what I told them,” said William, as he entered the study with a large tray.

“Oh, William,” said Catherine, as he set down the tray, “That looks WONDERFUL!”

“I’ll say!”Joe agreed.  That looks like a chocolate cheese nugget died and went to heaven.”

William laughed.  “I had a little help to remember the flavor, so these are for you, too.” He handed Joe most of a bag of chocolate cheese nuggets. 

“Why not keep them here for the others to share?” Joe asked.

“Well, most people are just as squeamish as these ladies here, and those of us that like them have been told by our physician,” he looked pointedly at Father, “that we shouldn’t have too many sweets.”

“Oh, well, happy to oblige, then!” Joe smiled.  “Thanks!”

The rest of the council had arrived and been introduced, and  everyone had a slice of cheesecake, and a blissful smile on their faces.

Catherine confessed, “I take it back, Joe, you DO have good taste in snacks.” 

“I also had a little help procuring the aged cream cheese I needed to get the tanginess in the flavor profile just right.”

“Yeah, helps to be a legit bakery with commercial suppliers to order from!” said a voice from the entry.

“Well, if it isn’t Katelyn and Jonah,” Father exclaimed.  “It’s so good to see you two here!”

“Hello everyone!”, Katelyn said.  “We’ve been awfully busy, Father.  Thanks to Catherine and her friends on the force, we have a LOT of business!”

“That’s good, that’s very good.  Starting out a new venture like yours is always a risk, but you seem to have found your niche.”

“So THIS is how Cathy found the amazing donuts and coffee for the office, not to mention the great deal our “coffee committee “ gets for them,” Joe said.

“Guilty!” Catherine said.  “I knew they would need a good start, and I thought where better to get the word out than our office, where many police officers come for meetings, and well, you know about the association between police and donuts.”

“Yeah, “ Joe said, “My Pop told me it was because back in the day, a donut shop was the easiest place to get a coffee and a snack when you were on patrol, no matter what time it was, there was usually a donut shop open.”

“I’m glad the grand experiment was a success, William,” said Jonah, “but we have to get going.  We open early, and the donuts and bread don’t make themselves!”

Everyone said good night to the young bakers, once again expressing their thanks for helping William get what he needed to prepare Joe’s cheesecake.

“Boy, if those kids add this cheesecake to their bakery menu, I’m gonna gain 50 pounds.” Joe remarked.

“Glad you enjoyed it, Joe, “ said William, “But I didn’t share that recipe, so you’re going to have to come down here if you want more!”

“Good, that way I can control myself, because I can’t come running down here every day, I’d risk giving away your secret!” Joe answered.

“Joe,” said Father, “we are very glad to have you as one of our helpers.  Catherine will show you how to use our messaging system, so if you ever need us, or want to send us something, you will be able to contact us as easily as she can.  You can also feel free to let Vincent or myself know if she’s trying to do too much, though I don’t think she will.”

“Nah, she’s on desk duty until you all decide it’s safer for her not to be Above anymore.  I know she can’t tell everyone that she’s expecting, just in case Junior looks like Dad, here", he said, indicating Vincent with a wink.  “We’ll leave it to you to decide when she should take leave, and I trust Doctor Alcott and yourself will let us know the date.”Joe replied.

“Thank you, Joe, for understanding, and being a friend as well as a boss.” Catherine said.

“Oh, hey, Radcliffe, I appreciate being finally let in on your huge secrets.” Joe teased.  “It’s a relief to know now that if you disappear suddenly, I have a place to check besides your apartment or Doctor Alcott.”

“I promise, Joe, from now on, if I disappear on my own, I’ll leave word with you first. “ Catherine answered.

“Please, Catherine,” Vincent said, putting a hand on her shoulder, “don’t even tease about such a thing.”

“Yeah,” Joe said, “that time you were being stalked and that nut job got to you was the WORST night of my life, and Vincent’s, too, I imagine.  We’ll just do everything we can to make sure that NEVER happens again.”

“Not to be a party pooper,” Mary said from her spot at the table,” but Catherine is looking tired, and it is late.  You all need to get back, and that’s a bit of a walk.”

“You’re right, Mary.” Catherine said, getting up from the chair Vincent was standing behind, “I’ll say  goodnight, and I imagine Vincent would be willing to guide you all back to the restaurant so you can get home.  “

After they all said goodnight, Catherine departed for the chamber she and Vincent now shared, and Vincent walked back toward Chinatown with Peter, Jenny, and Joe.

“That went well.” Mary commented.

“Yes, very well,” Father agreed.  “I find myself liking Mr. Maxwell a great deal.  He’s a very forthright and dedicated person.”

“Yeah,” said William, “and he has good taste; in food and friends!”

Father asked the remaining council members, including Sarah, Jamie, and Sam, “How do the rest of you feel about him?”

The general opinion seemed to be that Joe was a good guy. 

“He’s a really good friend to Catherine,” Jamie said, “and Jenny obviously loves him.  I think he’ll be a great Helper for us.”

“Yes“, Sarah observed, “he is in a position to be an extra protection for us in that world up there.  He can help keep us safe.”

“Then we are agreed, this was a good decision, and we can perhaps let Joe and Jenny both in on a few more of our operating details so they can be of help to Peter when Catherine is on maternity leave, as far as our procurement systems go.  Peter can sign on the trust accounts, and Joe and Jenny can give him any other logistical assistance that Catherine normally does.” Father concluded with a smile.  “It’s good to know we have others up there to ease Catherine’s mind about this.”

All were happy that the meeting with Joe went so well, and they adjourned for the evening.

 

As they walked back to Chinatown, Vincent and Joe were chatting. 

“Joe,” Vincent began, “there is an entrance not far from your apartment building.  Catherine told us your address, and we checked.  I’ll have one of our helpers, Daniel, who lives in your building make contact and show you how to use it safely.”

“Thanks, Vincent,” Joe replied, “Though that might make it too easy to get down here for a piece of that cheesecake, or whatever else William makes.  I’ll try to keep it to necessary trips only.”

“Of course, Joe,” Vincent said, “you are welcome to visit whenever you like, always keeping safety in mind.  We’ll have Daniel show you a couple of other entrances as well, so you can vary the ones you use.  Again, I am very grateful for your concern for Catherine.  It makes it easier for me when I cannot keep an eye on her myself.”

“Yeah, that girl can sure find trouble.” Joe opined.  “I am very glad you found her, she never would have come to work at our office if she hadn’t met you, and found this place.  You and Father also saved her life, didn’t you?” 

“Yes,” Vincent admitted, “There was no time to get her to a hospital; she would have bled to death.  She was already in shock, and Father was afraid for a while that he might lose her.  I sent her all the strength I could, to reinforce her will to live. Thankfully, it worked.”

“I first realized she had someone special in her life the night the stalker got her, and she couldn’t throw me out of the apartment fast enough. “ Jenny quipped.  “I found out later that Vincent was waiting impatiently on the balcony the whole time.”

“I was very grateful for the care both of you gave her that night,” Vincent said, “but I FELT it when she died.  I had to do CPR to get her to come around.  I needed to hold her, to make myself believe she was really all right. “

“Dear God,” Joe exclaimed, “She actually drowned before you got her out of there?”

“Yes.” Vincent said. “I had to revive her, and then, just as I got her stabilized, I had to leave her.  I had to trust she’d be well cared for, and thanks to you, Joe, she was. “

“Well, from now on, she’s going to be as safe as we can keep her, “Joe said, and Jenny nodded in agreement. 

“I know, and I cannot thank either of you, or Peter, enough for your support in this.” Vincent replied.

“You know Cathy, Vincent,” Peter quipped, “she’s always going to be headstrong and try to do everything she can to help others.  I do believe this time you’ll find her more than willing to be careful.  She knows exactly how much she stands to lose, and she doesn’t want to take any chances.”

They had reached the restaurant’s entrance, and said their good nights. 

Vincent had a long, thoughtful walk back to the home tunnels.  He was very grateful that meeting was over, and had gone so well.  Time to get some rest, he thought, and to make sure Catherine is tucked in properly.  That meant with him holding her as they slept, of course.

 

The next day, being Saturday, was a bit of a day of rest for some Below.  Catherine, and the others like her who worked Above were indulged and allowed to sleep in.  Catherine would have been encouraged to sleep in anyway, since Father and Vincent both were convinced she never got enough rest. 

Not everyone had the day off, however, and Mouse and Jamie were no exceptions.  Jamie had thought about the entrance Joe would have to use, and now that they had TWO helpers in that building, she asked the rest of the council members for permission to get Mouse and Kanin to help open an entrance in Joe’s building.  There was a good spot in the basement, according to Daniel, the helper who also lived in the building.  So, that Saturday morning, Kanin, Mouse, Jamie, and Vincent were busy making an entrance in the basement of Joe’s (and Daniel’s) building. 

“This is good.  Better than good.” Mouse opined.  “Tunnel runs right where we need it, as easy as Catherine’s basement.  Just need to make a hidden door. “

Cullen had tagged along in case any carpentry was needed, and he piped up: “I have some old shelves that would blend right in down there.  I went to visit Daniel a little while back, and he showed me the wall he thought we might be able to open.  It opens in a back corner of the basement storage area, it’s well out of the way.  We just need to tell Joe and Daniel to secure some things to the shelves, and make them look dusty, so nothing falls off when they move the door, and so nobody goes investigating back there.”

“We should be able to finish this today,” Kanin observed. “We should contact Daniel and get him to get Joe and come check it out.  Maybe they can even work on the shelves while we finish up down here.”

“That sounds good,” Vincent said. “I’ll notify Daniel, and help Cullen bring the shelves up here.  We can put them through the opening as soon as the door is ready, and Joe and Daniel can secure them to the door on their side. That is, if them working down there won’t attract too much attention.”

“I don’t think it will,” Cullen observed.  “The laundry facilities are available on the ground level in that building, so not too many venture into the basement, and the trash is nowhere near the storage area.”

With that, they all went to do their respective parts of the job, and Cullen went up to see Daniel, via the front door, as soon as the door in the basement was ready.

“There.  That last screw’s got it all secured.  What did you find to put on the shelves, Joe?” Daniel asked.

“Here’s an old lamp and a fan that were made to be secured to a desk or shelf.  I’ve had them forever, they don’t work, I just never had the heart to throw them out since they were my Pop’s.”

“Yeah, those’ll work great!” Cullen said.  “I have a few other things to add, and we’ll just bring in some of the dust from the tunnel to make I look like it’s been here forever.”

“Wow, “ Joe said when they were done, “It looks like it’s always been there.”

“Yep.” Said Cullen. “You guys are good at this.  I may just call on you the next time we have to hide something in a basement!”

“Long as it’s not a body,” Joe quipped.  They all laughed.

“Why don’t you guys come on back with me? William probably has dinner ready by now, and I heard rumors that he made more cheese cake so everybody can have some for dessert…”

The guys jumped at the chance, and were soon following Cullen through the tunnel, having secured their new secret door.  Cullen showed them the subtle signs to look for so they wouldn’t get lost when they came this way, and how to tell which way to go when the ways change.  He also showed them their signal pipe, and Daniel said he’d teach Joe how to send his name code and call for a guide.

It was a bit of a walk from Joe and Daniel’s neighborhood to the hub, but not too bad.  “Great,” said Joe, “I can eat William’s good cooking and not worry about gaining too much weight.  I’ll get plenty of exercise going home!”

“Yeah, the walking we all do is one reason everybody down here EXCEPT William doesn’t get too heavy eating his good cooking.  He never gets to go too far from the kitchen!” Cullen remarked.

As they came close to the hub, they passed a large open space, where a bunch of kids were taking what looked like martial arts instruction from a large, well muscled African American man. 

“Isaac Stubbs?” Joe said, incredulously.

“Yeah”, Cullen answered.  “He became a Helper shortly after he helped Catherine find Vincent when he was lost Above on the Lower East side awhile back.  He’d been hurt, and couldn’t get home easily on his own.”

“Is that Joe Maxwell I see back there?” Isaac called out.

“Yeah, Isaac, it’s me.” Joe answered.

“Heard from the kids here that you were the newest Helper.  Welcome to the club, man.  Nice to have the DA on our side!” Isaac quipped.

“What are you and the kids up to?” Joe asked.

“We’re learning Streetwise Self Defense, Mr. Maxwell!”  Said a pretty dark haired girl.

“That’s right, Samantha, and you are just about my best student.  Cathy’s the best, but you’re getting close!” Isaac answered.

“So you guys are learning to keep as safe as possible when you have to go Above, huh?” Joe asked.

“Yes!” the kids all answered.

“The kids run errands and take messages all over town.  Cathy came up with this idea a few months ago, and wanted me to teach another class now that those scumbags are hanging around near the bakery and the crafts store.”  Isaac told him.

Cathy had told Joe about the “From Loving Hearts” shop right after it opened.  She told him friends of hers ran it, and that it donated profits to the foundation she worked with as well as other charities.  Now he knew why a couple of the kids looked familiar.  He’d seen them in there when he and Cathy stopped by right after it opened.  He’d also seen one of the older boys dropping stuff off for Cathy a time or two.

“Well, I am sure I’ll get to meet all of you more formally at some point, but Cullen here told me that dinner should be served down here soon, so I guess we better get going so you can finish your class and get cleaned up before it’s time to eat!” Joe told them.

“We’ll see you at dinner, Joe!” Isaac said, as the kids all said “See ya!”

“How are the kids doing with the self defense stuff?”Joe asked Cullen.

“Well, they learn to do things that can help them escape if they get grabbed, and make it harder for their attacker to be able to chase them.  Just don’t EVER startle Samantha.  She laid me out worse than Catherine did when I walked up behind her once when she wasn’t expecting me.  For a little woman, she’s STRONG! And Samantha, that girl’s very VERY good at clobbering somebody who grabs her from behind.  Even with padding, she put me on my knees when I helped Isaac with class.” Cullen told him.

“Yeah, Cathy’s pretty impressive.” Joe said.  “Isaac told me once when he was helping us out as an expert witness in a case that Cathy was his very best student ever.  Guess he wasn’t kidding.”

“Nope, he sure wasn’t.  Cathy can put a man twice her size down, easy as pie.  I just hope she doesn’t have to do that until well after the baby comes!” Cullen said.

“Well, my becoming a Helper is all part of helping keep that from happening.” Joe told Cullen.  “I’m not letting her out of the office on casework unless she takes a big, hairy, mean looking cop with her! Besides, she’s not doing field work anymore anyway.  Her biggest risk these days is a paper cut.”

“Good.  We all think a lot of Cathy.  She’s done a lot for the other Helpers, as well as for this place and especially for Vincent.  He seems to really be alive now,” Daniel said, "when before he seemed to just be existing.  He seems so much happier now.”

“Cathy brings her best wherever she goes, whatever she does.  Took me awhile to see it, though,“ Joe said.  “I thought she was just some rich dame out to ‘make a difference’ for about ten minutes, who would leave as soon as the going got the least bit tough.  I threw all the nasty stuff at her, and she just kept right on going.  She surprised the heck out of me.”

By this time they had arrived at the dining chamber, and who should they meet coming in but Vincent and Catherine. 

“Joe,” Cathy said, coming up to hug him, “It’s good to see you back so soon.  William will be your friend for life if you tell him it’s because of his cooking.”

The others all laughed.  “Well,” Joe said, “the food WAS a big reason I came today.  The other was that we finished a new entrance in the basement of our building today, and Daniel and I just had to try out the route once Cullen mentioned it was almost dinner time.”

“I am glad you could come,” Vincent added his greeting, “You didn’t meet Mouse earlier, and he wanted to meet you.”

“Did not,” Mouse said. “Mouse said I was afraid to meet Catherine’s boss.  He’s in charge of the law.  Might think Mouse stole stuff when Mouse doesn’t do that anymore!” The young blonde man was standing behind Vincent and Catherine, trying not to smile.

“Mouse,” Joe said, “Unusual name you have there, but I am glad to meet you.  You have nothing to fear from me as long as you only take things from the trash, not warehouses. It would be really embarrassing for the District Attorney to have to bail a friend out of jail.  The newspapers would give me a bad time, and it might make somebody find your secret world here because they’d wonder how I knew you.”

“Okay good.  Mouse knows not to steal.  Know the difference between stealing and taking now.  Catherine explained it.  Know better than to do stuff that might make people follow me home.” Mouse told him.

“Okay, fine, Mouse.” Joe said with a smile.  He had heard about Mouse from Jenny.

Everyone was trying not to laugh.  Father came in at this point and suggested everyone find a place to sit.  So Joe and Daniel had a pleasant dinner with their friends Below, and then made the long walk home.

“I am gonna sleep good tonight!” Joe commented as he and Daniel walked.

“Me, too!” Daniel offered. 

“Funny how we’ve been neighbors all this time and never had a conversation besides “excuse me” on the way in or out of the elevator.” Joe observed.

“Ah, yes, but that is New York, or indeed all of our bigger cities these days.  People don’t chit chat as much as they do in smaller, less crowded places.” Daniel offered.

“Yeah, you’re right,” Joe observed. It seems like there’s not enough energy left over for small talk when you’ve had to deal with the city all day.”

The two men agreed to meet regularly.  Seems they both liked to watch football on TV, and so did Kanin and Cullen, and they planned how they might be able to get them up to one or the other of their apartments to have a “tailgate” party sometime.  Joe thought  “ I wonder if William is a football fan.  If he came up, he’d bring REALLY good snacks.  Hmmm….”

 

Monday came all too soon, and Joe and Catherine were back at work trying to find out more about the child abuse ring, among other cases.

Kanin was working in Loving Hearts that afternoon, and Samantha and Eric were his helpers.  Samantha was dusting and straightening shelves, and Eric had been in the basement sorting the little paintings Elizabeth made for sale.  Kanin gave him price stickers for them, based on the list Elizabeth had made.  So far, it was a quiet afternoon.

As Catherine and Joe walked to the meeting at the bakery, Joe was telling her he’d met Samantha Saturday as she and the kids were finishing their self defense class.

“She’s a pistol,” Catherine said.  “I worry sometimes that she’s overconfident, that she’ll get herself into trouble like I used to, but Vincent says she has to find her own path, and all we can do is be there to help when she needs us.”

“Guess I’ll be joining the crowd being ready to help.” Joe said.  “She really made an impression on me.  We talked a bit after dinner, too.  She’s a smart kid, and seems to have a good heart.”

“Yes, Samantha is a great kid.  I think she’s working at the charity shop this afternoon.  Maybe we can go by and say hello after our meeting.”

“I’d like that.” Joe said, as they were arriving at the bakery.

Katelyn and Jonah had saved the big booth in the back for the lawyers and the officers and agents to use.  The bakery’s little dining room was already pretty full of uniformed officers taking their coffee breaks.  Many of them greeted Joe and Catherine on their way through to the booth.

 

Meanwhile, back at From Loving Hearts, Samantha was dusting the bookcase where the “book boxes” Vincent and Cullen made were displayed.  These were clever boxes made to look like old books. They were the same size as a book, and the perfect place to stash your treasures.  She noticed a man who sort of gave her the creeps looking at the boxes, so she switched to the other side of the bookcase, toward the opposite end, so she could still keep an eye on him.  She saw him put something in one of the boxes and then walk away. 

She waited a bit, until she thought he had left the store, then she went and grabbed the box he had picked up.  It had a video cassette in it.  She knew Catherine had been looking for creepy guys trading videos.  She decided to run to the bakery and see if Catherine was there yet.  She knew she’d be there for a meeting this afternoon.

Without thinking to tell Kanin she was leaving, she dashed out the door.  She didn’t see the creepy guy until he grabbed her from behind.  Reacting as Isaac had taught her, she slammed her heel down on his instep, kicked him as hard as she could in the groin, and of course, he let go of her, so she ran to the bakery.

“Catherine!” Samantha yelled as she pulled open the door. 

All of the officers still in the bakery immediately looked up at the door as Samantha charged in, waving a videocassette in her hand.

Joe got up before Catherine could and caught Samantha.  He really didn’t want Cathy to get body slammed by the over excited girl. “Hey, Sam, calm down, it’s me, Joe!”

“Joe!” Samantha said, and collapsed in his arms.  “I saw a guy put this in one of the boxes at Loving Hearts.  I thought he was gone, but he was outside and he caught me.”

“Too bad for him”, Joe thought as a very winded, very pained looking guy burst through the door.

“You!” he shouted at Samantha, “Your stole that tape!”

About that time, he found himself in the hands of several of New York’s Finest, and his hands were cuffed securely behind his back. 

“Read him his rights, Alavarez,” Joe said.  We can book him on assault on a minor to start with, and I’m pretty sure the FBI is going to have a few questions for him as soon as they get a look at this tape.”

Catherine had arrived at the front of the store during all this, and Samantha had detached herself from Joe and clung to Catherine sobbing.  “It’s all right, Sweetie, you’re all right.  I’m here.” She told the youngster, who had finally realized what she had really gotten herself into.  “I’ll stay with you while the FBI agents question you.  They’re going to have to talk to you and have you show them the box the man put the tape in.  Does Kanin know where you are?” 

Samantha lowered her head.  “No, I ran out without telling him.”

“Well, I bet Jonah would be willing to go tell him what’s going on, “ Catherine said. 

About that time an officer in uniform came over and said, “Hey Sam, hey Cathy! I’ll go tell Kanin what’s up.  Jonah’s got his hands full with the shift change crowd getting ready to come in for coffee.  I think the FBI is going to move this show down to the Loving Hearts store anyway.”

“Thanks, Joey!” Catherine said.  “I keep forgetting you’re on the force now.”

Joey smiled. “Yeah, good  job there Sammy, that guy was pretty rattled by what you did to get away from him.  That what Isaac’s been teaching you guys?”

“Yes“, Samantha answered.  “Isaac says I’m his second best student.  Catherine is the best.”

They all smiled at that, and then they followed Joey back down to From Loving Hearts where Kanin was about going nuts looking for Samantha. 

After Joey explained what happened to Kanin, he made sure Catherine had a place to sit down, and sent a message Below to let Vincent know what was going on. 

That evening, after the FBI had asked all their questions, and gone to interrogate their suspect, Joe went Below with Catherine to speak to the Council about what had happened.  Vincent met them and was walking along with them.

“I still can’t believe that guy ran into a room full of cops and was surprised to find himself under arrest.” Joe said.

“Yeah, a bakery that sells good coffee and donuts, among other good things to eat, is a great place to find a cop, especially near shift change time!” Catherine stated.

They all had a good laugh about that one. The old stereotype held true.  If you need a cop, look in a donut shop.

Father was concerned about Samantha, but she assured everyone that she was all right.  Catherine had given her own address as a point of contact for Samantha.  She told the FBI that she was an old family friend of the girl’s, and that she would make sure Samantha was available if they needed her for anything.

That evening Vincent and Catherine finally had time to relax together and read a bit before bedtime. 

Catherine still had to giggle about the bad guy getting caught by cops in a donut shop.  “I don’t know why it tickles me so” she told Vincent, but I just can’t stop laughing about it.  The look on the guy’s face when he saw where he was, it was just priceless!”

Vincent agreed that it was amusing.  “Justice was sweet in this case.” he observed drolly. 

Catherine hit him with a pillow.

Thus began a very intense pillow fight that soon led to more, shall we say amicable interaction, that in turn helped them fall into a very satisfied slumber. 

Samantha was a bit of a star among the children that evening.  William gave her extra cookies for dessert, and she was smiling as she fell asleep. 

Isaac laughed over the note Catherine had sent him describing Samantha’s successful use of his training. 

Joe was happy.  He had another case sent off to be somebody else’s headache; Cathy came through it all unscathed, and he had new friends coming over to watch the big game this weekend.  Life was good.

 

Father was at last able to retire to his chamber and get ready for bed.  What a week!  The District Attorney is now a Helper, Samantha, of all people, helped capture a dangerous member of a child abuse ring, a new entrance was added to the tunnels, and William had come up with a chocolate cheese nugget cheesecake that was extremely popular among tunnel residents and Helpers alike.  He was thinking of calling it “Joe’s Cheesecake”, because, after all, he made it for Joe. 

So, all is well, and I am tired, and thanks goodness for a comfortable bed.  I hope nobody has need of me in the middle of the night! Father thought as he drifted off.

William was softly snoring and dreaming of other cheesecake variations he could come up with. 

Mary had just dozed off after settling a child who had awakened with a bad dream.

Cullen was carving chess pieces while on sentry duty.

All was right with the world.

eaHhE