Chapter Text
Strange Happenings
By Python
Detective Lennie Briscoe sat in bed, with his back against the headboard, reading a file. "Can't you ever leave work at work?" Executive ADA, Jack McCoy, teased as he came into the bedroom.
Lennie didn't look up. "Why should I? I've got nothing better to do."
Jack's eyebrow rose. He knew that Lennie was trying to start with him. He walked over to the bed and sat down next to his lover. "I guess you're right."
Lennie nodded. "I know it." Both of them knew that he was no longer thinking about work, but their game wasn't over yet.
Jack sighed and sat so that his body touched Lennie's. "I did have another idea for something to do tonight, but I'll save it for another time."
Lennie still didn't look at Jack. "Okay."
Jack put his hand on Lennie's knee and let it trail up his thigh. "What case is this?"
"The Margaret Tanzer murder," Lennie answered, with a distinct effort to keep his voice neutral. Jack's fingers moved to the inside of his leg. "I thought you were going to wait for another time."
"I did," Jack said with a grin and squeezed the tight muscle. "Two minutes."
Lennie couldn't help but laugh. "What am I going to do with you?"
Jack leaned in and began nipping at Lennie's bottom lip. "One idea springs to mind."
Lennie kissed Jack, but suddenly remembered their guest. He pulled away enough to rest his forehead against Jack's. "Serena's in the next room."
Jack's new assistant, Serena Southerlyn, had been staying with them for three days, since she was thrown out of her apartment. Jack and Lennie were letting her sleep on their couch until she found a new place. "I looked in on her. She's already asleep," Jack said.
"Really?"
"Nora had her running around all day," Jack explained and lightly kissed along his lover's jaw. He reached in, took the file off Lennie's lap and reached back to let it drop to the floor. Then, Lennie kissed him on the mouth, hard, and pushed him onto his back.
Lennie traced Jack's lips with his tongue, then he kissed his way along Jack's jaw to Jack's neck. "Are you sure that we should continue this?" he asked lightly when he heard the moans begin deep in Jack's throat. "We don't want to wake Serena after she had such a busy day."
"Lennie," Jack warned and forcefully pulled Lennie down on top of him. Lennie's hardness matched his own and he rocked his hips to rub them together.
Lennie shut his eyes and moved with Jack. Jack grabbed him by the t-shirt and kissed him. "I need it now," Jack demanded.
"Yes, Sir."
+++++
Agent Jay of the Men in Black sat alone on his bed in his quarters. Doc Brown had ordered him to get some sleep, but he wasn't tired. He was never tired. He could never relax enough to be tired.
Jay stared at the gray walls. The color reflected how he felt. He was used to the loneliness. It didn't matter if he was sitting alone or surrounded by other agents. No one understood him, except for Kay.
Jay sighed. He and Kay had their differences but were more alike than most would expect. Their styles differed, but values and objectives were the same.
Jay tried to stop thinking about Kay, his older yet still tough and lean partner. He wanted to keep his thoughts from taking the disturbing turn that they had on several other occasions. Never in his wildest dreams did Jay think he could masturbate while fantasizing about Kay.
There was a light knock on the door and Jay pushed himself off the bed. He opened it to find the center of his thoughts standing in the hall. "Kay."
"Hey, Jay. Am I disturbing you?"
Jay shook his head. "No, come in."
Kay took a moment to take in the sight of Jay in shorts and t-shirt and then stepped in. Jay closed the door and turned to face him.
"What's up?" Jay asked.
Kay tossed Jay a bottle. "Pills from Doc Brown. He knew you wouldn't be resting."
Jay looked at the bottle for a second and shook it. "I should've known he would find a way to check up on me."
"He knows you're stubborn."
"I'm not the only one here who Doc Brown says that about," Jay said with a smile.
Kay chuckled. "So, we're both problem children."
Jay went to set the bottle on a stand and an awkward silence fell over the room. He chewed the inside of his lip, cursing his own nervousness. He was never tongue-tied and usually went after what he wanted. But this is different. Kay was older than him. Kay was his partner. Kay was a man.
Kay noticed Jay's uncharacteristic silence and decided to leave. He thought that his presence in Jay's personal quarters might be making Jay uncomfortable. The two spent a lot of time together, but that was business. I should have never entertained the idea that it could be more. "Well, I should be getting out of here so you can get some sleep."
Jay nodded, well-schooled in hiding disappointment. "Thanks for bringing the pills by."
"No problem," Kay said and turned to leave.
"Kay," Jay called.
Kay stopped but didn't face Jay. "Yeah?"
Jay licked his dry lips. "Never mind. It's not important."
"Are you sure?"
"Uh-huh."
Kay shrugged. "Okay."
Jay watched Kay leave and let out a frustrated sigh. "This is just great, Jay," he muttered sarcastically.
+++++
Lennie woke with Jack's head on his shoulder. He stroked his lover's back. Jack shifted and put a leg in between his. Suddenly, the alarm clock went off and he reached over with his free hand to turn it off. "It's time to get up."
Jack groaned. "Do we have to?"
"No."
"Really?"
Lennie laughed. "No, I just told you what you wanted to hear."
Jack raised his head to look in Lennie's face. His eyebrow rose and he smiled. "Too bad. I wouldn't mind staying in this position."
Lennie wouldn't have minded either, but they both had to work and, if Serena wasn't up already, she would be soon. "Get off me and go take your shower."
Jack gave Lennie a quick kiss and rolled out of bed. He went to the bathroom and knocked on the closed door. "Serena, are you in there?"
Serena opened the door and smiled. "I've just finished."
That was the fourth morning in a row that Serena had been up long enough to be completely dressed, with make up, before Jack and Lennie were up. "You really are a morning person," Jack remarked.
Serena shrugged. "I like being up with the sun." She stepped out to let him in.
"Are you sleeping all right on the couch?"
"Oh, yeah. I haven't had a problem."
"Good. Now, I've got to hurry so Lennie can have his turn," Jack said.
Serena nodded. "Be my guest. I'll start some coffee."
"Okay," Jack said and disappeared into the bathroom. He took a quick shower and got dressed. Then, he called to Lennie that it was his turn and went into the kitchen for a cup of coffee and a bagel.
Serena sat at the kitchen table with a mug and the newspaper. "Good morning, Jack."
"Morning," Jack answered, walked to the cupboard, and got his own mug.
"I'm done with the front page."
Jack sat down in the chair next to Serena. "Okay, let's see it."
"I'm going to look for a new place on my next day off."
"Okay, but it's no rush."
"I know, but I don't like intruding," Serena said, somewhat embarrassed.
Jack shook his head. "You're not intruding."
"Sometimes, I get the feeling that I am."
"Put that out of your head," Jack told Serena. He didn't understand her nervousness sometimes.
Serena smiled. "Okay, Jack."
The kitchen was silent until Lennie came in twenty minutes later. "Morning."
"Morning," Jack answered and held his mug out so that Lennie could fill it along with his own.
Lennie poured Jack another cup. Before he could get one for himself, he heard his cell phone. He handed the full mug to Jack and went to answer it. He was back a couple minutes later. "That was Ed. I've gotta go."
"Is something wrong?" Jack asked.
"A body in the bathroom of a gas station," Lennie answered and kissed the side of Jack's head. "Same old, same old. See ya later."
"Okay." Jack noticed the side of Serena's mouth quirked up after Lennie left. "What?"
Serena looked back down at the paper. "Nothing."
"Don't give me that."
Serena's face flushed slightly. "I was just thinking that you two are sweet together."
Jack sat back with a satisfied grin. "Thanks."
+++++
Jay growled at the blaring alarm clock and turned it off. He rolled out of bed, went to the bathroom to splash some cold water on his face, and changed for his morning workout. On his way to the MIB's indoor track, he passed the pool.
Jay stopped by the window and looked down at the blue water. It was still early, even by MIB standards, but there were still a few agents there. Still, he had no trouble picking out Kay's form.
Jay never thought the word graceful could ever apply to Kay, but it was the only term he could come up with. Kay moved in the water as if he'd been born there and Jay admired the view. He caught sight of his own reflection in the glass. "What are you doing, Jay?" he asked himself quietly.
Despite his own reprimand, Jay continued to watch Kay swim laps. He was startled by Frank's gruff voice. "Hey, Jay, what cha' doin'?"
Jay quickly turned away from the window. "Just thinkin'." He glared at Frank, hoping the dog would get the message and leave him alone.
Frank didn't get the hint or he chose to ignore it. "About what?"
"It's not important."
"Are you thinking about Laura again? I know you miss her, but it's been six months. It's time to move on. There are plenty of fish in the sea."
Jay was tired of people talking about Laura. Yes, he liked her. Yes, he missed her, but he wasn't pining. He was ready to move on. He just wasn't sure what he'd be moving on to. "I'm not thinking about Laura. I've told you before that I'm fine with her leaving."
"Then, what's your problem?"
"Nothing," Jay snapped. "My only problem right now is you."
"Sheez. Touchy," Frank responded, turned around, and trotted away.
Jay sighed and continued his way to the track, deliberately not looking down at the pool again. Running usually helped to clear his head or, at least, focus on other things besides his problems. But that time was different. He kept thinking about Laura and Kay and about Kay in the pool. You were staring. You jaw dropped to the floor over an old white guy.
Jay finished his run and went to the locker room. He ignored Kay, who was getting dressed by his locker, and headed to the shower. He stood under the stream of hot water, bowed his head, and shut his eyes. "This is so fucked up."
After his shower, Jay got dressed for work. Zed called him and Kay into his office. "An unidentified craft landed in a field outside of a small town called Montaine, New Hampshire. We've already cleared the area and I want you two to go take a look," Zed said.
Jay and Kay stood up and Jay asked, "What about the aliens that own the ship?"
"We're still trying to track them," Zed answered and gestured for them to go.
Within a matter of minutes, the two agents were on their way. Kay concentrated on the road and waited for Jay to start talking. Jay didn't and he kept quiet. There didn't seem to be anything to say. Jay hadn't looked him in the eye that morning and Jay ignored him in the locker room.
Jay was thankful for a case to work on, something else to occupy his thoughts. He looked over at his stolid partner and tried to convince himself that work could keep him out of trouble, at least of the personal variety.
+++++
Jack looked at Serena in the passenger seat. She was staring intently out the window at the bright sky. "What are you looking at?"
"The way the sun's playing off the clouds," Serena answered wistfully. Then, she remembered herself and sat back in her seat. "I'm not really an airhead."
"I never said that you were," Jack replied in amusement.
"It's just that, when I look at the sun, I get a charge. When it's bright, I have all the energy I want. When it's cloudy, I drag."
"You're not the only one that feels that way. People are generally in a better mood when the weather is good," Jack said and wondered why Serena always felt that she needed to justify herself.
"I guess you're right."
"Of course I am."
Serena laughed and the rest of the trip passed in congenial silence. When they got to work, she headed to her desk, while Jack went to his office.
Jack left Serena to her work while he went to do his. He sat behind his desk and stared at the stack of files waiting for his attention. He blew out a long breath. "I hate paperwork."
The rest of the day passed fairly quickly. After the morning paperwork, Jack and Serena spent most of the time in court. "I won't be leaving with you tonight," Serena said as they were getting ready to leave.
"Why not?"
"One of my old friends from college called me today. She'll be in town on business for a couple days and we agreed to have dinner tonight. She's going to pick me up here."
"Okay. I'll see you later tonight then," Jack said and went home. He got there at the same time as Lennie. "Detective," Jack greeted, unlocking the door.
"Counselor." Lennie followed Jack inside. "Where's Serena?"
"Dinner with a friend."
"So, it's just you and me for a couple hours."
Jack smiled. "It looks that way."
Lennie chuckled, gave Jack a quick kiss, and went into the bedroom. He took off his jacket and locked his gun and badge away. "What are you in the mood for?"
Jack shed his own jacket and sat on the edge of the bed. "Pizza, Chicago style."
"Sounds good to me."
Jack grabbed the phone and ordered their dinner. Then, they went to the front room and sat on the couch. He sat back in Lennie's arms, against Lennie's chest. "You know, it's funny."
"What?" Lennie asked.
"Serena. She seems to always be trying to justify herself. I don't know what it is, but I think she feels out of place."
Lennie squeezed Jack briefly. "She'll be all right. The city might be getting to her a little. She hasn't even been here a year. Where did you say she was from?"
"Some small town in New Hampshire. But I don't think that's it. This isn't Serena's first time in New York. She spent one summer interning at a Wall Street firm."
"What is it then?"
"I don't know," Jack answered. He shrugged. "I'm probably reading too much into the situation."
"Well, irregardless, there's nothing we can do about it now. I suggest you stop thinking about it."
Jack reached for the remote. "You're right."
"If you turn on CSI, I'm gonna shoot you," Lennie said half-seriously.
"All right, I won't."
"Good boy."
Jack looked over his shoulder at Lennie and grinned. "Do I get a treat?"
"Later."
+++++
After a solid hour of silence, Kay finally had to ask, "Is there a problem, Slick?"
"No," Jay answered moodily.
"Then, why are you giving me the silent treatment?"
Jay shrugged. "I haven't had anything to say." Geez, Jay, can you come up with a lamer lie?
"I thought you always have something to say."
Jay shrugged again. Kay didn't press him and neither said a word until they got to Montaine. Another agent gave them directions to the field. It was surrounded by black cars and a giant yellow tent was up.
"Ready to go to work, Kid?" Kay asked.
Jay grunted. He hated being called kid. "I'm always ready," he answered and got out of the car. He headed to the tent and didn't need to look to know that Kay was only a couple steps behind him.
The two went inside and the agent at the flap let them in. Jay stepped in first and saw a huge blue ship. He didn't recognize it. "What is it?"
"Solarian," Kay answered.
"Solarian?"
Kay nodded. "They live on the outer rim in the Daras system. They don't come here very often."
Jay gestured to the ship. "Well, they're here now, but why?"
Instead of answering Jay's question, Kay pulled out his communicator to contact Zed. "The craft is Solarian."
"Any Federation markings?" Zed asked.
"Hold on," Kay said and walked around the exterior of the ship. He found a seal of two crossed flaming swords. "It's the Tritak Federation."
Zed grunted. "Then, they'll be after the princess."
"That would be my guess."
"Go get her and bring her here."
Kay nodded and flipped his communicator closed. "Let's go, Kid."
"Where?" Jay asked, but Kay was already out of the tent and on his way back to the car. "Hey, Kay, are you going to tell me what's going on?" he demanded.
"In the car. I'll explain on the way."
Jay got in and impatiently waited until they were on the road. "What's up?"
Kay started from the beginning. "The Solarians were in the middle of a massive civil war. The people were split into three federations: The Tritak, Mitak, and Sytak. The original royal family is the head of the Sytak. The Mitak eventually joined them, leaving only the Tritak in rebellion."
"So, how did we get involved with this?"
"In every generation, a special child is born, one with the power to unify the governing elements of the planet: the sun, moon, water, that sort of thing. In short, she will be able to bring harmony back to that war ravaged planet. She'll help bring peace."
"And?"
"The child's powers come when she turns of age. The Tritak don't want the war to end because they don't want to lose all the power they've built up because of it. Despite their best efforts, the Sytak couldn't keep the last two children, before the one here, alive to reach maturity. The Tritak are skilled assassins." Kay paused as he remembered the next part. "After the last child was born, the Solarians brought her here. We agreed to take charge of her."
"Why?" It's another Laura.
Kay sighed. "Because we could safely take here. The Tritak only had limited spacecraft at the time. Even the Sytak fleet consisted of only five ships. Solar doesn't have the resources for advanced production of these type of goods."
"It looks like they do now."
"That's why we have to get to the princess before the Tritak do."
++++
Serena came back to Jack and Lennie's apartment around six-thirty to find them sitting on the couch together, watching TV. "Did you have a good time?" Jack asked.
Serena nodded. "Yes."
"Good."
"What have you two been up to?"
Jack glanced at Lennie and then back at Serena. "Not much."
Serena stretched and put her purse on the stand by the door. Then, there was a light knock. "Should I see who it is?"
"Go ahead," Jack answered.
Serena opened the door to see two large men, one blond and one brunette. "Can I help you?" she asked wearily.
The blond man stared at her intently, then he looked at his comrade and the two pushed their way inside. Lennie and Jack were standing a second later. "Just hold on a minute, guys," Lennie said.
"Do not interfere," the blond stated. "This is none of your concern."
Before Lennie could react, the other uninvited guest took out an odd looking weapon and shot him. He collapsed onto the floor and didn't move. Jack couldn't even check on him because now gun was pointed at him.
Jack glanced over to see that his lover was breathing and focused on the two goons in front of him. "Just take it easy," he said, surprised at how calm he was staying.
The blond grabbed Serena roughly by the arm. "Are you the princess?" he demanded.
Serena tried pulling away but his grip was too tight. "I don't know what you're talking about."
The blond responded by pulling a scanner out of his pocket. The blue light read Serena's face. "It's her," he told his partner.
"Good, let's take her and get out of here."
"Take him, too," the blond said, gesturing to Jack.
"Why?" the other growled.
Blond shook Serena. "He's a friend of hers. We might need some leverage. We could also use him if the MIB get in our way."
"That's a great idea, Leto," Blond's partner said and stepped towards Jack. "Let's go." When Jack hesitated, he pointed his weapons down at Lennie. "The second shot is always fatal."
Jack swallowed and followed Serena and Leto out the door, with the other one behind them. "What's going on, Jack?" Serena whispered.
Leto suddenly turned to Serena. "We're taking you home."
"Home?"
Leto nodded. "Solar."
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"You will," Leto assured her. Then, he heard his partner growl. "Yes, Bader, we're going."
When they got to the street, Bader put his weapon away, but clamped his hand on Jack's shoulder and warned quietly, "If you try anything, I'll go back and kill your friend before I kill you."
Leto led the group to a large black SUV with New Hampshire plates. He opened the back passenger door for Serena. She paused before getting in. "If it's me you want, then take me, but leave Jack here."
Leto shook his head and answered sincerely, "I'm sorry, but I can't, but I'll make a deal with you. If you behave yourself, I'll let him go before we leave."
"How can I believe you?"
"I give you my word."
For some reason, Serena believed Leto when he gave her his word. She eyed him for a moment and climbed in the car. "All right."
+++++
"So, where's this princess now?" Jay asked.
"We put her with a family from Montaine. The father and mother were ex-MIB agents. They raised her like any other child. As far as she knows, she's human," Kay said.
"This will be a big surprise."
"Yeah."
"Okay, where is she?" Jay asked again.
"She's working and living in New York. She graduated from law school a couple years ago and is an ADA in the District Attorney's office. Zed should be coming through with her address any time now."
Jay realized one important thing he forgot to ask. "What's her name?"
"Serena. Serena Southerlyn."
Jay repeated the name to himself. "I got it."
Suddenly, the car shook and Kay looked in the rearview mirror at a black jag. The driver's arm was out of the window, holding a gun and firing at them. "He's got a class two disruptor."
Jay took out his own gun and stuck his head out the window. A shot cracked past him. He was back in a second later. "Damn, that's a sweet ride." Another shot rocked them. "I hate to do this, but...."
Kay kept the car as steady as he could while Jay fired. It would've been easy enough to outrun the jag but he wanted to have a little talk with the driver. Suddenly his side mirror shattered. "Today, Jay."
"I'm trying," Jay yelled. He missed several times and ducked back into the car. "I shouldn't be having this big of a problem," he said in frustration.
"Will you please disable him before he kills us?" Kay asked in annoyance.
Jay glared at Kay and leaned back out the window. He fired two quick shots and took out the jag's two front tires. It spun out of control, flipped, and skidded to a stop at the side of the road.
"Happy now?" Jay asked.
Kay didn't answer and turned around. He drove back to the jag and got out. Jay followed suit and they cautiously approached the wreck. They found the driver pinned beneath, cursing in a foreign language.
Kay and Jay stared at each other. "Solarian," Kay said, pointing to a distinctive tattoo that ran up the alien's arm. It was a set of three jagged lines running along the length of the arm. The lines alternated in width, being thin at the wrist and thick at the bicep. Two of them ran parallel and the third crossed them.
"Oh," Jay responded, keeping his gun leveled at the alien.
"His friends probably sent him to try and stop us from getting to the princess."
The Solarian snarled, raised his weapon, and fired a quick burst over Kay's shoulder. Jay reacted and shot him dead. Then, he looked at Kay, who said, "Take cover."
"What?" Jay asked. Kay grabbed him by the shoulder and pushed him down behind the wrecked jag. "What's with you?"
The answer to Jay's question came with a bang as their own car exploded. After the noise died down, Jay straightened up and looked at the mess that was left of his beautiful ride. "Damn."
Kay stood next to Jay. "His burst hit the thruster cells," he explained.
Jay sighed and kicked the Solarian's corpse. "Bastard."
Kay stared down at the Solarian. "You shouldn't have killed him."
"He shot at us."
"He shot at the car. He wanted to keep us from getting to New York and he succeeded," Kay replied and turned to face Jay. His voice was hard. "Now, we won't be able to get anything out of him either."
Kay's tone sparked Jay's temper. "He fired. I reacted," he said defensively.
"You didn't think."
"Fine, I didn't think," Jay snapped. "I'll let the next alien scumbag kill you."
"There's no talking to you when you're like this," Kay stated and turned to walk away.
"Don't walk away from me."
Kay stopped but didn't turn. "Sometimes, you're still just a rookie."
Jay hated it when Kay said that. He wasn't a child that Kay needed to look after. He grabbed Kay's arm and spun him around. "I'm tired of all your bullshit."
Kay glared at Jay's hand and then at Jay's face. I don't need this. I can't have you touching me.
The two stared intently at each other. Jay was getting turned on by the fire in Kay's eyes and he used his grip to pull Kay against him. Kay looked at him in surprise and something else that he couldn't believe he was seeing.
Kay felt his own desire strongly and the rational part of him mind screamed at him to get away. Jay's other arm went around his waist. "What are you doing, Slick?"
"I think you're smart enough to figure it out," Jay answered and leaned in to kiss Kay.
+++++
Serena sat in the back seat with Bader, while Leto drove and Jack sat in the front passenger seat. Jack stared out the window at the gathering darkness, wondering if Lennie was okay and trying to figure out a way to escape.
Serena was quiet. She ignored Bader's eyes on her. During a sharp turn, he leaned into her and didn't seem to want to back off. She pushed him away. "If you don't mind," she said sharply.
Bader inclined his head and replied sarcastically, "Pardon me, Princess." Jack had turned to look at him. "What are you looking at?"
"Nothing," Jack answered nonchalantly.
"Turn around," Bader snarled. Jack eyed him for a second and then did as he was told.
"Calm down, Bader," Leto said authoritatively.
"I am calm." Bader touched Serena's knee. She glared at him and he said, "That's the problem with you Sytak. You think you're better than everyone else."
"Get you hand off me."
"What are you going to do if I don't?"
"Bader," Leto cut in with a warning tone. "Leave her alone. Our only job is to bring her back home." He locked eyes with Bader in the rearview mirror. "In one piece."
Bader reluctantly removed his hand, but that didn't stop him from leering at Serena. She didn't squirm and asked, "How are we getting home?" she asked, although she still didn't believe a word of it.
"A ship is going to pick us up," Leto answered.
"When?"
"You'll know when the time come," Bader said.
When they stopped for gas, Serena said she had to use the bathroom. "Go with her and stand outside," Leto told Bader, putting particular emphasis on the last word.
Bader grunted and hopped out. Serena followed and he steered her by the arm to the restroom. Leto shifted his attention to Jack. "You can get out a stretch your legs."
"Thank you," Jack said and got out of the car. He walked around to the other side where Leto was pumping gas.
"Just continue to go along with us and everything will be fine," Leto said.
"How do I know that you just won't kill me when you don't need me anymore?" Jack asked, crossing his arms.
"I give you my word. I don't like killing unless I have to."
"I don't think your friend shares that attitude," Jack retorted sourly, thinking of Lennie.
"Bader's a soldier. He'll do as he's told," Leto said. He finished pumping and ran a credit card through the card reader at the pump. Then, he looked at Jack. "Your love is alive," he stated in complete certainty. Jack opened his mouth and shut is again and he smiled. "Can you not feel it?
Jack nodded. "I can." He watched Leto put the card back in his pocket. "If you're an alien, then where did you get an American Express card?"
"The same place I got the car," Leto answered simply.
"Do you really believe that you're from the planet, Solar?"
"We are and so is the princess."
"Then, how did she get here?" Jack asked.
"Her parents hid her," Leto said and didn't elaborate.
This was the weirdest thing that had ever happened to Jack. He'd never believed in aliens before but Leto and Bader were strange. They had strange tattoos running up their arms. And where else could they have gotten their equipment? And what about Serena?
Jack always got the feeling that Serena felt out-of-place, but an alien? He rubbed his chin and thought he was crazy for even entertaining the idea. "Who did her parents hide her from?"
Leto answered right away. "Us."
+++++
Jay surprised himself with his actions, but he didn't want to stop. The minute he touched Kay's lips, Kay responded favorably. He let go of his grip on Kay's arm and put his around Kay's middle and let his hand trail up Kay's back.
Kay grabbed fistfuls of Jay's jacket. Jay's mouth opened and he tasted his young partner. Before he could totally lose himself, he shoved Jay away and straightened his tie. "Jay, we have a mission," he said and pulled out his communicator.
Jay took a couple steps away to compose himself while Kay called Zed to report where they were. At least he didn't try to shoot me.
A half hour later, a car came out to pick them up. They hardly said a word while they were waiting. Kay touched his lips and quickly put his hand down when he noticed Jay watching him.
Kay and Jay didn't get back into the city until after nine o'clock. They didn't bother going to headquarters and decided to go straight to the address Zed gave them for Serena. "She's staying with one of her co-workers since being thrown out of her apartment," Kay explained.
"Hopefully, the Tritak haven't gotten here first," Jay said. He and Kay arrived at the apartment to find the door closed, but unlocked. They drew their weapons, just in case.
The two agents went in. The only person they found was Lennie unconscious on the floor. "The rest of the place is clean," Jay announced, coming out of one of the back rooms.
Kay nodded, put his gun away, and knelt down next to Lennie. He found Lennie's pulse and recognized his face. He'd hoped this wasn't the same person.
"Who is he?" Jay asked.
"Detective Lennie Briscoe of the NYPD. He shares this place with DA Jack McCoy."
"Shares it?"
Kay straightened up. "They're lovers," he answered shortly. Then, he walked into the kitchen to call Zed.
Jay stared after Kay and then down at Lennie. He lives with another man openly. He shook his head. But his life is different from mine. He followed Kay into the kitchen. "What are we going to do with him?"
Kay flipped his communicator closed. "Take him to HQ for treatment."
Jay didn't protest. Without treatment, Lennie's wounds would get infected and he'd die. "You think they got to the girl before us?" he asked flippantly.
"What else explains Briscoe's disruptor wound?" Kay replied seriously.
A MIB team came to secure the area, while Kay and Jay took Lennie to their hospital. They left him in Doc Brown's capable hands and reported to Zed. "We can only assume that the Tritak have the princess," Kay said.
"Yeah, we should be getting after them," Jay added.
"You will," Zed said. "Could you give us a moment, Agent Jay?"
Jay looked from Zed to Kay and then back at Zed. He hated being out of the loop. "Sure, I'll wait outside."
Kay waited until Jay was gone. He jammed his hands in his pockets. "It's him."
Zed sighed and rubbed his eyes. "I hoped I was wrong, that it was a different Lennie Briscoe."
"Are you going to see him while he's here?"
"I don't know."
"Zed, he's your brother. It wouldn't hurt to talk to him. We'll be neuralizing him after all this is over anyway," Kay said reasonably. He knew all too well what it was like to care about someone, but not be able to talk to them. It would be good to have a conversation with a brother Zed hadn't been able to contact for thirty years.
Zed gave a small smile. "We'll see. Now, you'd better get going."
Kay nodded and left. Jay was pacing outside and stopped in front of him. "Do you want to tell me what's going on?"
Kay began walking and Jay had no choice but to fall into step beside him. "We're going to save the princess before the Tritak escape with her."
"That's not what I mean," Jay said sharply. "What was that little pow-wow you had with Zed?"
Kay ignored the question. "Call Montaine and see what other vehicles were stolen besides the jag?"
Jay couldn't argue with their need to know that information. The Tritak needed vehicles as soon as they arrived. The jag belonged to a city alderman. Finding out what else they took would give Jay and Kay an idea of what to look for. "This isn't over, Kay."
Kay glanced at Jay and his eyebrow rose. "I know."
+++++
"I'll be waiting out here," Bader growled.
Serena nodded and shut the door. She leaned against the sink and fought back tears. Be brave. She straightened up. Tears won't help. She searched for another way out of the bathroom, but there was none.
"Hurry up."
Serena ran the water to make him think she was washing her hands and stepped out. Bader grabbed her by the arm and led her back to the car. When Leto saw them coming, he told Jack to get back in and slid into the driver's seat.
Bader ushered Serena into the back seat and climbed in next to her. Leto started the car and pulled away. After a half hour, they heard a snap and one of the lights on the dashboard came on.
"We have to stop," Jack said.
"Why?" Leto asked.
"Because that's a warning light. We have to stop and check the engine. If you keep pushing it, it'll break down."
"It's a trick," Bader stated from the back seat.
Leto felt the car lose power. "I don't think so." He pulled over to the side of the road.
"Pop the hood and I'll take a look," Jack said, finding a flashlight in the glove compartment. He got out of the car.
Leto did as he was asked and told Bader, "You and the princess stay in here." Then, he got out to take a look at the engine with Jack. Jack was shining the light inside. "Don't try anything stupid."
Jack immediately saw the problem. He pointed inside. "The fan belt's snapped."
"What does that mean?"
"It means the car isn't going anywhere unless you replace it."
"Do it."
Jack shook his head. "You think I carry extra fan belts in my pocket?"
"Where can we get one?"
"A garage or auto parts store. There was one in the last town where we picked up gas."
Leto nodded in thought and went to go explain the situation to Bader. Bader stormed out of the car and over to Jack. He grabbed Jack by the collar. "You're lying!"
"No, I'm not," Jack yelled back. He was sick and tired of this stupid goon.
Leto stepped in. "Let go of him, Bader."
"But he lying," Bader protested. "He's just trying to keep us from getting to the meeting point."
"Try starting the car again," Jack said.
Bader glared at Jack, sat in the driver's seat, and turned the key. The engine groaned, but wouldn't turn over. He hit the steering wheel. "It's dead!" He got back out and stomped to Jack. "This is your doing."
"Enough of this," Leto snapped, raising his voice for the first time. "Leave him alone, Bader." He paused, getting his voice back to normal, but it was still stern. "I will take McCoy back with me into that town to get the part. You stay here with the princess."
"Why don't we just steal another car?"
Leto looked down both sides of the empty road. "It appears that this road doesn't see much traffic. We can't afford to wait. Plus, we don't want to attract any more attention. Stay with the girl and treat her with respect," he added in that warning tone.
"Yes, Sir," Bader grumbled through clenched teeth.
Leto turned to Jack. "Let's get moving."
When Jack and Leto were out of earshot, Jack asked protectively, "Do you think it's a good idea to leave Serena alone with him?"
"Bader won't touch her," Leto answered.
"You sound awfully sure of yourself."
"He knows what will happen if he does," Leto said and continued, "Just concentrate on getting through this. The sooner we're gone, the sooner your life can get back to normal."
"What will you do to Serena?" Jack asked, still trying to figure a way out that wouldn't get him, or anyone else he cared about, killed.
"She'll be safe."
"But you said her parents hid her to keep her safe."
"We have a use for her," Leto stated and quickened his pace, signaling an end to the conversation.
+++++
Lennie tossed and turned in his sleep. Beads of sweat ran down his forehead. Zed came into the infirmary and cautiously approached his bed. Zed stared down at him.
Zed couldn't help but think of all the time they spent together as kids, all the mischief they got into. His mother had always told him to look out for his kid brother. They were only two years apart in age and grew up the best of friends.
Zed was startled out of his thoughts by Doc Brown tapping him on the shoulder. He cleared his throat. "How's your new patient?" he asked.
Brown crossed his arms. "We dressed the wound and cleaned it out. Unfortunately, it became infected and he's got a bad fever. We've given him some antibiotics, that should eventually help with both."
"How long do you think it will take him to recover?"
"At least a couple of weeks."
Zed nodded and motioned for Brown to leave. He bit the inside of his lip, staring at his brother, who moaned softly in pain. "I'm so sorry, mom," he whispered.
+++++
"We're looking for a black suburban," Jay said after he got off the phone. He glanced at Kay, who just nodded. He took a deep breath. "What's going on with Zed?"
"What do you mean?"
"What did he want to talk to you about?" Jay pressed.
"It's nothing," Kay stated.
"Kay, stop bullshitting me."
Kay couldn't divulge Zed's private matters and decided to distract Jay by going on the offensive. "Me messing with you? I'm not the one who pulled that stupid stunt earlier."
Jay felt like he'd been slapped in the face. He'd been certain that Kay had some deeper feelings for him. Kay had kissed him back. "That didn't stop you from ramming your tongue into my mouth."
Kay focused on the road in front of him and not remembering what Jay's mouth tasted like. "You caught me by surprise. That's all."
"No, that's not all," Jay said and swallowed his temper. He reached over and put his hand on Kay's leg.
Despite his better judgment, Kay pulled over, grabbed Jay's hand, and lifted it off his leg. "Jay..." he began.
"Kay, I'm not sorry for what I did," Jay stated, cutting Kay off.
Kay hit the steering wheel and closed his eyes. "We can't do this."
Jay's temper flared again. He got out of the car, slammed his fist into the roof of it, and got back in. He stared straight ahead. "Let's go. We've got a princess to find."
Kay wanted to kick himself. I should never have brought the kiss up. "Jay," he tried again.
"No, you're right. Now, let's go."
Kay pulled back onto the road. His personal problems with Jay had to wait until their mission was over. They stopped at each gas station along the highway, asking about a black suburban.
"There must be a better way to do this," Jay complained.
"Such as?"
"It would be quicker to search from the air."
"And would alert the Tritak to our presence immediately. We don't know how many of them there are and we don't want to spook them into killing her right away," Kay said. "It would be nice to keep the element of surprise." He turned into another station. "Do you want to do this one or should I?"
"I will," Jay said, brusquely pushed the door open to the early morning sun, and strode into the small quick mart. There was a small line of three people. He didn't want to create a scene by cutting to the front and impatiently stood behind them.
Jay actually did not have to wait long. He spoke to the cashier slash manager. She told him that a black suburban bought a tank of gas about an hour and a half earlier. "Thanks," he said and went to tell Kay.
Jay slid into the passenger seat. "The cashier remembers a black suburban filling up about an hour and a half ago." Kay didn't answer and he looked at Kay, who was staring intently out of his window. "What is it?"
Kay pointed to two men coming out of an auto parts store. One was tall, blond, and muscular. The other was a little older, with silver-tinged dark hair. "What do you notice about the blond?"
Jay concentrated on the figure. At first, he didn't see what Kay meant, but saw it when the blond turned so he could get a look at his arm. "He's Solarian."
Kay nodded. "I saw them just after you left. They went inside that store."
Jay looked around and didn't see the suburban. "Their car must have broken down."
"That would be my guess."
"The other one must be Jack McCoy," Jay said, getting a pair of binoculars out of the glove compartment. He focused on the Solarian. "His tattoo's colors are different from the one that attacked us."
"Color signifies rank. What colors are his?"
"Blue, purple, and bright yellow," Jay answered and noticed a bulge in the Solarian's back. "He's also carrying a disruptor."
"Then we'll have to be extra careful following him."
+++++
Serena couldn't bear to sit in the car. It was too hot. She got out to stretch her legs in the early twilight before sunrise. She was acutely aware of Bader's eyes following her. He was leaning against the car, just watching.
Serena kept her back to Bader. She crossed her arms over her chest. Why is this happening to me? Why do I believe them when they tell me that I'm an alien?
"Come over here and relax, Princess," Bader called.
Serena could still see Bader shooting Lennie and did as she was told. She sat on the road by the back tire. He stood in front of her, making her even more uncomfortable. He made it worse by sitting next to her. "You don't like me, do you?" he asked.
Serena glared at him. "No, I don't."
Bader tried for a smile but it was a leer. "I can be a nice guy."
"Even to a Sytak?"
Bader put a hand on her knee. "Even to royalty."
"Get your hand off me," Serena said and spit in Bader's face. He snarled at her and she yelled, "What are you going to do to me? You can't do a damn thing. You superiors need me."
"They said that I need to bring you back in one piece. They never said anything about the condition of the piece."
"Leto ordered you to treat me with respect."
Bader shoved himself off the ground. "You and that traitor will both get what's coming to you," he said and went to stand by the other end of the car.
Serena sighed and wished that Leto and Jack would make it back soon.
+++++
Jack and Leto arrived before the auto parts store was open. A woman unlocked the door to tell them that they'd just have to wait. Leto would have gone in with force, but Jack turned on the charm and smiled. "Please, our car broke down. We don't want to leave our friends out there alone on the road longer than we have to."
The woman sighed. "All right. You're only fifteen minutes early, anyway."
"Thank you."
"Sure."
Jack and Leto bought the fan belt and the tools to put it in. "Do you know how to do this?" Leto asked when they were back outside.
Jack nodded. "I've done it before."
"You're doing well, considering the circumstances," Leto remarked.
"I don't really have a choice," Jack responded.
They started the long trek back to the car. Serena stood up when she saw them and went over to Jack. "Are you all right?" he whispered. He noted Bader staring at them out of the corner of his eye.
"Fine," Serena answered, but added quietly, "But I don't know how much longer our friend over there would have kept his hands to himself."
"We'll let Leto worry about him for the moment."
"It's time to get started," Leto broke in. He let Jack and Serena have a minute because they hadn't caused any trouble, but he wouldn't give them enough time to plot either.
Jack nodded and popped the hood of the suburban. Bader stood in his way, daring him to do something stupid. The two stared daggers at each other before Jack took a step back and walked around.
Leto motioned for Bader to keep a look-out and asked Serena, "He didn't mistreat you did he?"
"Not yet."
"He won't."
Serena put her hands on her hips. "I think you misjudge him."
Leto sighed. "Perhaps."
+++++
Lennie's eyes snapped open. He was hot and licked his lips, while staring at the gray ceiling. The last thing he remembered was being shot, but it wasn't a normal gun. Jack! His head whipped up and a strangely familiar voice told him to take it easy. He looked at the owner of the voice, an older man with brown hair and a brown goatee. "Who are you?"
"Just calm down," Zed said. "You're safe here."
"Where's here?"
"Our infirmary."
The last thing Lennie was in the mood for was incomplete answers. "And where's that?" he asked in frustration.
Zed wished that he could tell Lennie what he wanted to know, but that wasn't possible. "I'm afraid that I can't tell you that."
"Why not?"
"It's top secret."
"Okay, can you tell me where Jack and Serena are?"
"I'm not sure," Zed answered.
"What about the guys that took them?"
Zed almost said that they were Solarians, but bit his tongue. "I don't have any details for you, Detective."
Lennie blew out a long breath. The other man's voice and manner seemed familiar but he couldn't place it. He stared hard at Zed. "Have we met before?"
Zed couldn't bring himself to lie about that. "Yes."
"Where?"
Zed's eyes went to the floor. "It really doesn't matter. It was a long time ago."
Lennie put his head back down and rubbed his eyes. He was so hot. He looked at Zed again and he thought of his brother, Zachary. But that can't be. Zach was killed forty years ago. He didn't like thinking about Zach. Zach had joined the marines. There was a plane crash at his base and he was killed. Lennie was seventeen while Zach was only nineteen. Their mother never got over it.
Zed was sure that Lennie recognized him but Lennie was quiet. "We hope to have this mess cleared up soon."
"Sure." Lennie turned his head to the wall. He was too sick and tired to push for more details. He barely noticed Brown giving him another shot and didn't fight it as he drifted back off to sleep.
Zed rubbed the back of his neck. He hadn't spoken to Lennie since they were young. He never regretted his decision to join the fledgling MIB because the work was important, but it forced him to leave his family behind. They had to think he was dead. Hence, the phony plane crash.
Zed took a quick look around to make sure that no one was watching and lightly stroked Lennie's hair. "I'm sorry," he whispered. Then, he stood up and walked out.
+++++
Kay and Jay tracked Leto and Jack with one of their micro cameras. It flew by remote control and was no bigger than a fly. It was one of Kay's favorite toys.
The camera tracked Leto and Jack, while Kay and Jay followed at a safe enough distance, so as not to be detected. Kay stopped their car as soon as they saw the black suburban.
"Their car stalled," Jay said. "Do you believe that?"
"Their bad luck is our opportunity. There are only two Tritak."
"Let's take them hard and fast, not give them time to react."
Kay nodded in agreement. It was best to take them while they were stranded. If the suburban got moving again, the risk of injuring someone increased. "I was thinking the same thing."
After some discussion, they decided that it would be best for Jay to approach on foot before Kay came in fast with the car. Jay got out and Kay asked, "How long will it take you to get up there?"
"They're only three-quarters of a mile away," Jay said. "Give me ten minutes and I'll be ready." The plan was for Kay to drive up and create a distraction while Jay took the Tritak from behind, from the cover of the trees at the side of the road.
Kay watched Jay move away quickly. He wasn't sure about this plan but they didn't have a lot of time. He looked at his watch and tried not to even think about the possibility of Jay being hurt.
The ten minutes past and Jay was in position. He saw Jack working under the hood with Serena at his side. The two Tritak were talking a few steps away. The discussion looked heated. Good, they're not paying attention.
Suddenly, Kay sped down the road, firing at the Tritak. Leto and Bader went to opposite sides of the suburban, crouched, and began firing back. Kay turned the car around and made another pass.
Jay saw Jack take Serena and hide behind the car. He ran out and blindsided Leto before the Solarian had time to turn his weapon on him. He kicked Leto in the stomach and grabbed his disruptor. "I guess you know better than to come here and start fights."
Jay quickly turned to where Bader had been and saw him standing with Serena. He was using her as a shield and held his disruptor to her head. "Back off, Human!"
Jay kept his weapon raised. "Let her go. You can't possibly win," he said. He saw Kay out of the corner of his eye. Kay was standing behind their car, with his gun leveled at Bader over the roof.
"Put your weapon down or I'll kill her," Bader snarled.
"Kill her and I'll kill you."
Bader pressed his disruptor harder against Serena's head. "Do you really want me to blow her pretty little head off?"
Kay laid his gun down on the hood and put his hands up. "Do as he says, Slick."
"What? If we back down, they'll get away with her," Jay protested.
"Do it. We'll catch up to them later."
Jay couldn't believe that Kay was doing this. Kay never backed down. He hesitated, but laid his gun on the ground.
Leto grabbed his disruptor, jumped up, and approached Bader and Serena. He stood behind them. "Well done, Bader."
"That's the problem with MIB. They care," Bader replied, obviously pleased with himself.
Leto nodded. "Sometimes, that can be a problem," he said, silently put his disruptor up to the back of Bader's head and fired. "And sometimes it's not."
Serena jumped away as Bader's head exploded. She stared at Leto, who got down on one knee in front of her. "Princess, your parents sent me to make sure you get back to them safely."
Jay walked over to Kay. "You knew."
Kay nodded. "By his tattoo."
"He did," Leto cut in. "Bright yellow is a Sytak color. It took me a long time to convince the Tritak that I was willing to betray my clan."
Serena motioned for Leto to get up. "So, my parents sent you here."
Leto nodded. "For your protection. We knew the Tritak would try to get to you first. That's why I infiltrated their organization so long ago, so I could go along when they finally tried to take you."
Serena still had many questions but they could wait. She rushed around to the other side of the car, where Jack was lying after Bader hit him. She knelt next to him. "Jack, are you okay?"
Jack sat up and shook his head in an effort to clear it. "I'm just great," he answered sarcastically. He got up and saw Leto, Kay, and Jay. "What happened?"
Serena showed Jack Bader's body and pointed to Leto. "He's been on our side all along."
"And what about them?" Jack asked, gesturing to Kay and Jay.
Jay exchanged looks with Kay and then Kay answered, "I'm Agent Kay, this is my partner Jay. We're part of a secret government organization that monitor alien life on Earth."
Jack sighed. "Okay."
"That's it?" Jay asked.
Jack nodded. "After all I've seen today, I believe you."
"I see your point."
Kay pulled out his communicator and Leto stepped up to him. "I have to get her home. Our people need her."
Kay nodded. "I know. We've been in contact with your government. They stopped the Tritak ship that was coming her to pick you up and will be sending one of their own once they hear from us." He activated his communicator to report to Zed that they had the princess.
"Good, I'll contact the Sytak," Zed said.
"We also have Jack McCoy."
"Bring them all in."
Kay put his communicator away. "We'll go back to headquarters and get all this straightened out."
"What about him?" Jack asked, referring to Bader's body.
"We'll take care of it."
+++++
"The fever's finally broken," Brown reported to Zed when Zed strode into the infirmary.
Zed nodded. "Good." he walked the familiar few steps to Lennie's bedside. Lennie was no longer soaked in sweat and his natural color had returned.
Lennie woke up without feeling burning beneath his skin. He opened his eyes to see Zed standing above him. "Well, if it isn't my enigmatic host."
Zed chuckled and sat down. "Doc Brown says your fever's broken."
"I was beginning to get tired of being hot all of the time."
Now, I know he's feeling better. He's got an answer for everything. He's always been that way. "I've got some news for you," Zed said. "We rescued Jack and Serena."
Lennie stared at Zed. "Really?"
Zed smiled. "Yeah."
Lennie sighed in relief and asked, "They're both okay, right?"
"Yes."
"Thank God," Lennie said and got the feeling that he'd met somewhere before again. "Where did we meet before?"
Zed chewed on his bottom lip. Before he could remind himself of all the reasons not to reveal himself, he answered, "I was there when you were born, although I don't remember it. I was only two at the time."
It can't be. Zach's dead. Lennie looked away from Zed. "It's not possible," he said quietly, but in his heart he knew that it was true. He crossed his arms over his chest. "Is it really you?"
"I'm afraid so."
Lennie gaped at Zed. His brain had problems processing Zed's identity. "Zach?"
"No one's called me by that name in a long time," Zed replied with a slight smile.
Lennie didn't know where to begin. There was so much he wanted to say. There was so much he wanted to know. He could've been angry, but the fact that his brother was alive nullified that. "You're alive."
Zed finally relaxed. There was no anger in Lennie's voice or face. "Yes."
"But the crash?"
"It was staged."
"Why?"
"In order to join the MIB, I had to disappear. My existence had to be erased," Zed explained. He sat back in his chair. "What we do much be kept secret, for the good of the planet."
"What do you do?"
"Deal with aliens," Zed answered matter-of-factly.
Lennie sighed. A couple days before, that explanation would have been fantastic, but now... "Well, I'm not surprised."
Zed's eyebrow rose. "Why not?"
"You're the one that wanted to live on the moon."
Zed laughed. "That's right and Mom told me it was made out of green cheese and that I'd eat myself out of house and home."
Lennie laughed, too, but said, "She really took it hard when you died."
Zed examined the shine on his shoes. "I know."
Lennie smiled sadly. "She never wanted to admit that you were gone."
"I'm sorry that I put you and her through that." Zed paused and continued, "I watched her funeral over our satellite. It was a nice service."
Lennie nodded. "It was just the way she wanted it."
The two shared a quiet moment to remember their mother. Then, Lennie tried to lighten the mood. "Have you ever watched me on your satellite?" he asked half-seriously.
"Sometimes."
"You just couldn't resist checking up on me."
"Well, you are my little brother," Zed said. "I saw your weddings."
"Horror movies," Lennie interjected sarcastically.
"I saw my nieces get born and the days you graduated from the academy and got your gold shield." Zed's voice lowered. "And Cathy's funeral."
Lennie sighed. "All my greatest hits."
"I also saw some of the flops, too. I wanted to kick your ass when you were destroying yourself with alcohol."
"You're not the only one."
"But you beat it."
Lennie shook his head. "It's a continuous battle."
"One that's made a little easier by Jack McCoy."
"I guess that I shouldn't be surprised that you know about us."
Zed touched Lennie's arm reassuringly. "It took me a while to get used to it, but I think he's good for you."
Lennie knew that Jack was good for him. Jack had been there when Cathy was murdered. Without Jack and Rey Curtis, he would've gone back to the bottle and never crawled back out again. "I don't know what I'd do without him."
Zed chuckled. "You've got it bad."
Lennie shrugged. "It hardly seems fair that you know so much about me and I don't know a thing about you."
"I've never been married and I'm head of an organization that deals with aliens. That's pretty much it."
"Children?"
"No."
"Who were these guys who took Jack and Serena?"
"Solarians. Serena's their princess."
"Really?" Lennie asked.
"Yes, they're in the middle of a civil war and her family needs her back."
Lennie let out a long breath. He wouldn't have been surprised if he woke up now and the whole situation turned out to be a dream. It was just so weird, but Zed's hand on still on his arm. His brother was alive and Serena was an alien. "I thought I'd seen everything," he mused.
"There's always something new," Zed replied.
CONTINUES