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The Handler	By : Melissa92863 Category: G through L > Handler Views: 1936 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Handler, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
The Handler and it�s characters are not mine. They belong to CBS.
Rusty was helping Lily and Darnell in the book shop. Joe had given her that duty since she had an interest in literature and he wanted to stay away from Gloria. She and Lily were sitting talking things over.

�I�m glad we finally get to work together.� Said Lily.

�Yeah, me too Lily. We haven�t had a chance to really get to know one another.� Said Rusty as she poured over the resent acquisitions.

�How are you doing?� Asked Lily sincerely.

�I�m doing fine now. Recovering from the Pavel incident was tough though. Joe helped me a lot� Said Rusty looking over her fake glasses.

�How is that going?� Lily asked. �I don�t mean to pry but I�d like to see you both happy.�

�It�s ok Lily your not prying. It�s going great. I have showed you guys what he gave me?� Said Rusty sweetly smiling at Lily.

�Not me Rusty. What did he give you?� Asked Lily.

�This was his grandmothers.� Said Rusty showing Lily her engagement ring.

�Oh my God! It�s beautiful! Oh Rusty I�m so happy for both of you. I was wondering if that wasn�t going to happen soon.� Said Lily admiring the ring. �Heather talks about you all the time. I feel I know you though her.�

�That can either be good or bad, gal.� Said Rusty giggl
> �Well I��..� About that time Rusty had, had about enough of this. She banged the book closed that she was looking at. The look about her almost frighten all three of them.

�So this is Gloria.� Said Rusty getting up slowly eyeing Gloria like a lioness would a Giselle.

Joe looked at Rusty and gulped a little. He had never seen her like this. He was hoping it was for show and Gloria wasn�t on her menu for dinner.

Gloria was a little on the frighten side too. �Yes I�m Gloria. Who the hell are you?�

Rusty continued her slow careful stalk out to where the three of them were standing. She looked at her engagement ring and hoped it would be enough to fool Gloria. The other ring Joe had given her for Valentines day a lovely dinner ring she put that one on her right.

�I�m Bruno�s wife.� Said Rusty to the shock of all of them. But Joe was just as glad she had stepped in. Gloria was a boa constrictor like predator she didn�t let go easily. He knew Rusty would have her work cut out for her.

�Is that so?� Huffed Gloria crossing her arms. Rusty still had her stalking mode on and hadn�t flinched. Joe knew it was his cue to talk now.

�Yes Gloria. Rusty and I got married Valentines Day.� Said Joe. �We went to Vegas.�

�You sure about that?� Asked Gloria still in a careful huff.

�He had better be sure.� Said Rusty looking at Gloria in the eyes. Actually she had not stopped making eye contact with her but Gloria averted her eyes mostly. �Stella was my Maid of Honor.� Lily almost jumped but fought it.

�Yeah Gloria, I knew but I thought it would be best to hear it from Uncle B.� Said Lily. �Wasn�t my place to tell things.�

�Humm, I almost smell a rat here. A red headed one.� Said Gloria starting to narrow her eyes. At that point Joe�s heart sank a little.

�The only rat in this place is Latina.� Said Rusty getting into Gloria�s face. �And if she doesn�t leave and get her horrible imitation Prada�s moving��I�m going to kick her a ��.�

�No need for that Dear.� Said Joe. Rusty maneuvered Gloria around so that she had to walk backwards out the door.

�We�ll see Bruno.� Said Rusty. She started to walk Gloria out of the book store. But Gloria began to stand her ground. Rusty never wavered. �Bruno is my husband now. He chose me. Don�t you get it? There is no room for you here. I wont have him screwing around on me and he knows it.�

Joe spoke up about that time. �Not that I would ever want too Rusty. You are who I want.� Said Joe. He was afraid it would turn into a cat fight soon.

�I don�t care about you . I just want to see Bruno every once in a while.� Said Gloria.

�I care about you Missy. He aint ever gonna see you again he just told you he didn�t want too. Get the picture or shall I draw one for you.� Asked Rusty as she reached for Gloria. Joe started to reach for Rusty but Lily held him back enough he couldn�t catch her.

Rusty got a hold of the collar of her dress and got a firm hold on her belt. Then she proceeded to march Gloria out of the Book Store forcefully, yanking her up twice on the way out. Rusty swung her around almost man handling her so she could use her hip to get out the door. The door was opened at that point. ��scuse me Bruno, this time I�m taking out the trash.� She took Gloria to the curb and dumped her right in the gutter on her butt. Gloria looked up at her. Her hair was a mess and in her face. Her stockings had runners in them from the pavement Rusty had unceremoniously dumped her on. She blew the hair from her fand and ran her hand over it so it would stay. She looked up at Rusty with a glare that would kill too. Rusty was standing like a gunfighter at that point. You could almost hear the theme to the Good, the Bad and the Ugly playing in the background. Joe and Lily looked at each other and ran out the door behind Rusty and Gloria. He saw Rusty dump Gloria in the gutter like yesterday�s garbage.

�Now then. Gloria you come back here and you will have to deal with me. You had best get that bony butt of yours moving or you and I are goin� to the woodshed. And after I skin you and tan that hid of yours I�ll tack it up on the wall for a trophy. So get!� Yelled Rusty. At that point Gloria knew Rusty was serious. She got up out of the gutter. Joe had turned almost mute. But he managed after the shock had faded a bit. He had never seen Rusty like this but this seemed to be working.

�Rusty means everything she says Gloria. We asked you nice to leave us alone. You brought this on yourself. You have to know this. Rusty is a retired sweeper for a Cartel in Texas. She is not someone you want to mess with.� Said Joe finally. �The skinning and tanning thing she spoke of she knows how to do. So I would go on, get out of here and not come back if you don�t want to end up at her taxidermist.� Said Joe.

Gloria got up, got her shoes out of the water they had been in, shook them off and smoothed her dress and hair. �Well, since you put it that way Bruno��..You�ll not see me again.� Said Gloria still shooting daggers at Rusty. Gloria walked on down the street. Joe, Rusty and Lily watched her board a bus. Rusty hadn�t taken her eyes off of her until the bus took her out of sight. Joe came up to Rusty and put his arm around her. They looked at each other.

�Rusty Honey?� He asked.

�Yes Darlin�? she asked apprehensively.

�Remind me never to piss you off that much.� Said Joe smiling at her.

�Ok, I will Handsome don�t worry.� Said Rusty starting to giggle.

Joe turned them around and they all three went back into the book store.

�Oh Rusty?� Asked Joe again.
/P>
�Rusty I have never seen you more effective in my life. If she stays away��

�She will. I declawed and fixed that female alley cat.� Said Rusty.

�You sure did Honey. I thank you for that. Now I don�t have to worry with her anymore.� Said Joe.

�I�m glad you are not mad. I had to take matters into my ownds wds when she started cleaning your tonsils my Darlin.� Said Rusty. �I really can�t have anyone else do that now can I?�

�Yeah, I am glad you did too. I never saw you like that Rusty. I know it must not happen often but man you scared both Lily and I.� Said Joe.

�I�m sorry Darlin�.� Said Rusty. �I had to do something or she would have blown it for this operation. We can�t have her coming here you told me that.�

&#e pue put his arms around her and Lily walked off.

�I have never had a woman fight so hard to keep me in my life.� Said Joe. �You are going to give me another complex.�

�Joe you already have one. Or is it two now?� She asked putting her arms around his neck and he around her waist.

�Three or four but who�s counting?� He asked. He kissed her. �Baby, you just beat all.�

�Not all but Gloria I would have.� Said Rusty.

�Yeah I know and I am glad it didn�t come to that.� Said Joe smiling at her. �But thanks, I couldn�t have got her to stop coming by.�

�No you just needed Bruno�s wife Rusty Branco to tell her off.� Said Rusty.

�Yeah, and why I hadn�t thought it would work��.See it didn�t with the ex. She never fought��..�

�But I will my Darlin like you fought for me. I owed you a lot more than one and I always repay my kindnesses rendered.� Said Rusty. �Oh and as for fighting for you again��

�I know you will just like I will. Now can we please get out of here and go get some dinner?� Asked Joe.

�I never thought you would ask.� Said Rusty. �How about Mexican?�

�Ah Rusty, Gloria is Puerto Rican.� Said Joe.

�Oh, well ok. I�d rather have Italian any day.� Said Rusty raising one eyebrow. Joe started to chuckle.

�Yeah I know. We need to talk about that.� Said Joe.

�Yeah and soon my Darlin�.� Said Rusty. �Lily we are gone.�

�Ok I�ll lock up I�m about to leave too. Max Rosenhiem will be back tomorrow with some things he has acquired. I�m glad Gloria is outta our hair.� Said Lily ready to walk out with them.

�Yea�Yeah, us too Lily. Us too.� Said Joe. As they walked out the door and locked it.

The next day Rusty, Lily and Darnell were talking at the book store.

�I�m glad Joe decided to put you with us on the sting here.� Said Darnell. �I�m not sure Joe harealreal interest in it.� Said Darnell.

�Yeah, he was interested but he didn�t have time for it. Seeing that Marty is letting me stay with you guys, he had too utilize me. That�s ok too. I want to be an asset. I�m not stepping on your toes am I Darnell?� Asked Rusty.

�Oh no, not at all Rusty. Lily and I like you a lot. We know you needed something to do while you recuperated after the Pavel thing and to tell you the truth it�s nice having you so interested. I�m glad things are working out for you.� Said Darnell.

�Yeah me too. � Said Rusty.

�Darnell you saw the new ring she has on didn�t you?� Asked Lily.

�Yeah, I was going to ask you about that.� Said Darnell as Rusty held out her hand for him to see the ring.

�It�s an engagement ring.� Said Lily.

�Yes I see that Rusty so when are you planning this?� Asked Darnell. �Joe hadn�t said a word.�

�Not for some time guys. We haven�t set a date. He wanted to make himself feel better and know waallyally his I guess. But he knew that. This just cements it. Oh by the way my leave is up so I�m yours now.� Said Rusty.

�That�s good. We are all glad you are back. And congratulations Rusty. I hope bothu anu and Joe will be happy.� Said Darnell. About that time Max Rosenhiem walked in.

�Good Morning everyone.� Said Max cheerfully.

�Good Morning Max.� Said Darnell, Lily and Rusty almost in unison.

�I have some news that you are going to like.� Said Max. �I have a gentleman that has a coin collection for sale.�

�Coins?� Asked Darnell. �Max we don�t��.� Rusty interrupted.

�Sorry Darnell. I�m a coin collector. I know plenty about them.� Said Rusty. Darnell brightened and so did Lily. Max seemed impressed.

�Yeah, have been since I was a kid. My maternal grandfather had a collection. He taught me to grade them and price them.� Said Rusty.

�That�s really a surprise. I thought you were�� Darnell started to stumble on his words.

�Oh Sweetie, I was a bookish kid. A tom boy but bookish.� Said Rusty.

�So I can go ahead and set up a deal?� Asked M/P>
/P>
�Sure go on ahead. Do you know if they are hot or not Max?� Asked Rusty.

�Yes. They came out of the Henderson collection. You know the industrialist and his wife that were killed a few months ago?� He asked.

�Yeah, I had heard of that. The men broke into the house and shot them.� Said Rusty. �If I remember correctly they had several 20 dollar gold pieces called St. Gaudens. I have a few myself. Those are really valuable.�

�He said something about gold pieces. And something called Morgan�s.� Said Max. �I�m not well versed in the coin trade I have to warn you.�

�That�s ok Max. I can teach you enough to make the deal. But I will have to go and get my collection at the bank.� Said Rusty. �I also have books I can loan you.�

�I�m not sure I can pick up the knowledge that fast Rusty.� Said Max. Rusty put her hand on Max�s shoulder and smiled.

�Max, are you not a part of Mensa?� She asked.

�Well, yes.� Said Max.

�That means you have a higher I. Q. than I do. You can learn this it isn�t hard.� Said Rusty. �You just have to know certain points. I have a book that shows how to grade them. Probably they are already graded by the Numismatic Association and slabbed. Which means that they are in a protective capsule and have their grade and price value already on them. Numismatic is the trade term for Coin Collector.� Said Rusty. All of them seemed impressed.

�Ok Rusty if you think you can teach me.� Said Max smiling at her. �You know since Joe put you here things have started to heat up. I mean they have started to take shape.�

�I know what you mean. And being here has helped me.� Said Rusty. �Having something to do has helped a lot. I do have an interest in literature. I had thought about teaching it in college. But the Criminal Law bug got me and nixed that.� Said Rusty as she prepared to go and get her books and coins. Joe came in about that time.

�Hey you guys.� Said Joe. �Rusty where are you going, Honey?�

�To the bank. I have to get my coin collection out for Max to see. We have some stolen coins that are for sale. It�s part of the Henderson Collection.� Said Rusty.

�Oh the industrialist that was murdered a few months ago?� Asked Joe starting to look interested.

�Yeah that�s the one. Max has a chance to acquire some of them if not all of them. I have a coin collection myself and have been a member of the Numismatic Association since I was a teenager. That�s coin collector to the lay person.� Said Rusty.

�You were starting to throw words at me that I wasn�t sure of Rusty. Glad you cleared that up. You can do it if you want too Honey. We have been looking for these guys anyway. If you can nail them with the knowledge you have then go on. What can I do to help?� Asked Joe.

�You can help me with the collection and getting the books if you want.� Said Rusty.

�That I don�t mind doing. Come on then. Is this time sensitive?� AsJoe Joe of Max.

�I think so. They want to move them as quickly as they can. I can set up a time for day after tomorrow if that is enough time Rusty?� Asked Max.

�Yeah, we will just have to work quickly. I think if membmember the memo that they were slabbed. Meaning they are already graded and encapsulated. That�s going to mean this is going to be a lot easier.� Said Rusty getting her purse. �Oh and when you call them Max, please ask that question. If they are unslabbed now I will have to be in on the deal making.�

�Sure Rusty. I�ll call them this Morning.� Said Max.

�Thanks Sweetie.� Said Rusty smiling at him. �Joe and I will be back as soon as we can.�

�Take your time. Do you need me to come with you?� Asked Darnell.

�Not this time Darnell, but thank you for offering.� Said Rusty sweetly.

�See you later.� Said Joe as they were followed by Lily with the key to the door.

�Ok, we will be here.� Said Darnell. �Want Max to stay here for a little while?�

�I would appreciate it.� Said Rusty. �Bye Ya�ll.�

�No problem.� Said Max.

Their first stop was to the house that they rented. She got a chair and proceeded to get her books down. From the bed room closet.

�Rusty don�t get up there. I can reach them.� Said Joe stopping her from getting on the chair. He moved the chair away and got down the tote marked coin books. It was small but heavy.

�Thanks Darlin�.� Said Rusty smiling at Joe.

�No problem. Just ask next time before you get up on something. You could fall.� Said Joe.

�Your right my Darlin�.� Said Rusty. She opened up the tote. She looked at the books and put the lid back on.

�It�s all there.� Said Rusty.

�I don�t know anything about coins except how to spend them.� joked Joe.

�You let me handle this one Joe. It gets tricky. Max can handle this though. He�s a smart man and learns quick.� Said Rusty. �It�s involved enough but if you want to learn��

�I might at that. I didn�t know you were a coin collector.� Said Joe. They walked into the living room.

�It never came up. There are a lot of things you don�t know about me and me you yet but I think that is fixin� to change just like I said with you being my Handler.� Said Rusty.

�I�m not your Handler just the senior agent in charge. We handle this team together Rusty.� Said Joe. He put down the tote the coin books were in.

�Yeah I know. That�s the way it was set up. Marty sure had to do some fast talking for this.� Said Rusty.

�Yeah he did. But he likes you wantwanted to help you. Plus he knows we are a little more than an item now.� Said Joe taking her left hand and kissing it.

�Your not telling me I need my own team anymore.� Said Rusty.

�No. I know you don�t want that and I still don�t understand why.� said Joe. �But that�s your choice and I�m not going to say anything else about it.� Said Joe.

�I like the partnership we have Darlin.� Said Rusty smiling at him. He smiled back.

�Ok just as long as you don�t hold back for those reasons I stated. I know you are still trying to figure out things.� Said Joe. �You have had a lot of bad luck with Max and Pavel and it seems to me I just get you in deeper.�

�Oh no you don�t Handsome don�t start that I get you into shit routine and then you get hurt. Those were my choices. I love you too much to let you take that blame. So get off the high horse ok Darlin�.� She asked.

�Yes Dear.� he said. �I just felt��..�

�I know what you felt and you are wrong. You asked, I did and that is the end of story. Ok?� She asked.

�Ok. You wont ever let me take the blame that is mine will you?� He asked.

�I wont let you take the blame that is mine my sweet Darlin. I don�t blame you for any of what happened to me.� Said Rusty. �It made me stronger and it gave me you. So what could be bad about any of it if it gave us each other.� Said Rusty.

�Ok. I get it.� Said Joe. �You are an amazing woman you know that Rusty McDowall?� He asked embracing her. �Here I was blaming myself and I didn�t want to add to your trouble and I figured I had.� He hugged her and then kissed her.

�I�m crazy about you don�t you know that?� She asked.

�Yeah, you don�t mince your feelings or your words. And you never let me hid from things.� Said Joe.

�Nope. You�re my Darlin�. No hiding necessary. � Said Rusty.

�I wanna take that trip soon I promised you.� Said Joe. �What do you think about the Bahamas?�

�We could get into a lot of trouble there Joe.� said Rusty winking at him. �But if you have things planned out��ok just let me in on some of them.�

�Oh no you don�t. I�m not giving out every detail.� Said Joe as she hit his arm again. �Ouch woman. You know I�m gonna be black and blue with you hitting me with those hands.�

�Joe you are so lucky that I hit your arm and not that cute ass of yours.� Said Rusty. Joe was startin chu chuckle.

�You know I have figured out a lot of things with you. One of which is when you start hitting my arm the foreplay is starting pretty soon. He moved out of the way.

�Foreplay my foot Joe Renato.� Said Rusty.

�Ok if you insist.� He said trying to grab her foot.

�Joe! You are on the verge of getting it.� Said Rusty starting to giggle.

�That is if you can catch me.� Said Joe.

�Ok, ok we need to go. Darlin�, I hate to break up this mutual love fest we have going in here but��Max needs to have some idea of what he has to do day after tomorrow. I�d love to stay here and show you instead of tell you what you are fixing to get. But there is no time for that right now.� Said Rusty.

�Damn, just take the words right outta my mouth woman.� Said Joe putting his forehead against hers.

�You need to know I�m all for it as soon as there is time again. � Said Rusty.

�Rusty you know if we had more time��..�

�I know, You know how much I enjoy that. You�re a good man Joe and a good man is hard to find.� said Rusty. �Especially one that can wear me out like you have in the past.�

�Your admitting that?� He asked.

�Yeah why not. I know at some point you are going to be tired of this.� said Rusty.

�Never. Can�t live without you.� Said Joe. �I promise you Rusty I intend to maood ood on that engagement ring. I�m the lucky one Honey. The rest of those guys just lost out on the best thing they ever saw. And I am the lucky son of a bitch that gets to spend the rest of his life with you.� Said Joe.

�Or the rest of my life with me. I think. Oh crap you know what I mean.� Said Rusty

�I do Rusty. I do.� Said Joe. �You know I am going to have to practice that.�

�I know, kept you on your toes didn�t it?� She asked pullbackback a little and giggling.

�Yeah and awake at night.� Said Joe starting to chuckle.

�Yeah me too Handsome.� Said Rusty.

Joe had a soft happy look about him. He looked at her and kissed her. Then he pulled back a little.

�Darlin, if we don�t get outta here��..�

�I don�t want to go either but Max needs that information that only you can provide.� Said Joe.

�Yeah and I really don�t want to go. But your right.� Said Rusty as Joe let her go and picked up the tote. Rusty got her keys and they left for her bank. They got her coins out and Joe took her back to the book store. They sat in the car for a moment. Rusty fixed her lipstick. She looked at Joe and giggled.

�What are you giggling at?� He asked starting to chuckle himself.

�You have coral evidence on your cheek and mouth, Handsome.� Said Rusty leaning over to get it off his mouth and cheek with a Kleenex.

�Can�t have evidence laying around can we?� He chuckled. He took a look in the rear view mirror. �Now stop the spit bath and let�s get this stuff in for Max to see.�

�Well, I am sure you didn�t want the others to know what went on.� Said Rusty.

�They already know Rusty. I think all of LA might know.� Said Joe. �Even the folks in the hills now.� Rusty hit his arm. �Ouch woman, stop with those hard hands.�

�You are going to see hands, your asking for a whoopin.� Said Rusty. �Now let�s go.�

�Alright already.� Said Joe smirking a smile at her.

Later on after Rusty had spent several hours explaining coins. Max was learning fast. Joe understood enough to get him into trouble and Darnell and Lily had some idea of what they were doing.

�That was some lesson Rusty.� Said Max looking over her coins.

�Yeah Honey, you make it look easy with the explanations.� Said Joe eyeing a St. Gaudens.

�I think she has done a fine job.� Said Darnell. �I never knew just how interesting coins were.�

�Thanks guys.� Said Rusty blushing a little.

�On that note I think we had better get these coins back into the bank.� Said Joe.

�Yeah, it�s getting late. I�ll go and get them tomorrow.� Said Rusty as she was putting them up.

�The grading system is complicated but, he said they were still in the slabs.� Said Max.

�So you wont need me to be there for the sale?� She asked.

�I don�t anticipate it. I think I have enough knowledge to do this myself.� Said Max.

Joe put down the St. Gaudens so Rusty could put it back in the tote she had for them. �Max who is the guy that is selling these?� Asked Joe.

�He gave me a name I don�t know whether it is the right one or not.� Said Max.

�We will run it and see what comes up.� Said Joe. He was afraid that Max wouldn�t give him the name or that he would lie. Rusty thought that herself. She touched Joe�s shoulder as if to say don�t push. Joe relented.

�Now Max, you know part of your deal was with us to tell us what you know about your contacts.� Said Rusty going over to Max. Rusty was working him. They all knew that but Max didn�t.

�Well, yes Rusty but I am not sure if it is the right name. I don�t want to cause trouble or confusion.� Said Max.

�Darnell, Lily come with me and let�s get some of those books put away.� Said Joe. He knew for her to work him she would need privacy. They all went on the other side of the store.

�Rusty will they take my immunity away?� Asked Max.

�Well, you are reneging on your part of the deal Max.� Said Rusty. �I can�t do much for you if you insist on keeping mum on this.�

�Ok, ok. His name is Eduardo D�Onofrieo. That is the name that was given to me. He wasn�t the shooter. But he knows who wHe wHe was the driver.� Said Max. �Now will you let me keep my immunity?�

�Yeah, that�s all we wanted Max. If the name comes up bogus then we will get the real one when we nail him.� Said Rusty. �Thanks for telling me.�

�I respect you Rusty. You are a very smart and beautiful woman. Joe is lucky to have you.� Said Max almost blushing.

�I respect you too Max. You are very smart yourself. Now I hope you gave me the name he gave you. I would really hate to have too��..�

�You wont Rusty. It�s the name.� Said Max. �May I borrow your books tonight?�&#P> �Take these three, they are going to do you the most good.� Said Rusty.

�Ok thanks. I will return them tomorrow.� Said Max.

�Your welcome.� Said Rusty. �Now I have to get these coins back in the bank.�

�Ok, you want me to go on now?� He asked.

�Yeah go and digest all I rattled off.� Said Rusty. �Can�t be easy. I just gave you years of knowledge to try and settle out.�

�It�s ok, I have a system I have devised over the years to make that easier.� Said Max. �Will I see you tomorrow?�

�You bet Sweetie.� Said Rusty. Max took her hand and kissed it.

�You are truly an amazing woman.� Said Max. �Take care now.�

�I shall and you too.� Said Rusty as Max got his brief case and the books and left. Joe came up to her.

�Well?� He asked putting his hand on her shoulder. �I know you made him spill.�

�The name he was given was Eduardo D�Onofrieo. He isn�t sure if that is his real name either. Max said that he was the driver not the shooter and that he knew the shooter.� Said Rusty turning around to face Joe.

�Ok, we will run the name. Now come on so we get these coins back into the safe deposit box.� Said Joe. �Oh and by the way why did he kiss your hand?�

�Who knows Joe.� Said Rusty. �Trying to flatter me I guess or he was doing a job on me. I�m not sure. He�s pretty wiley this Max. Let�s hope that he is like the coyote and not like the road runner.�

�Yeah, could be a whole lot of trouble if he is.� Said Joe. �What�s your take Rusty since you know people better than most?�

�I think he is a coyote.� Said Rusty.

�Interesting analogy you came up with.� Said Joe smiling at her.

�At least you understand it.� Said Rusty. �I have had to explain myself a lot since we hooked up.�

�I know Honey, But we come from different places. Let�s go. I have to be at my sting in two hours.� Said Joe. �I�m going to have to run this by Marty first too.�

�Ok, Let�s get going. Lily, Darnell��.We are going to put my coins up.� Said Rusty. �Good Night.�

�See you tomorrow then Rusty. You two have a good night.� Said Darnell smiling at them.

�Bye Rusty.� Said Lily. She took them to the door.

�Night you two.� Said Joe. Darnell watched them go to Joe�s car.

�They are a fine looking couple aren�t they?� Asked Darnell.

�Yes they are Darnell. I�m glad for them.� Said Lily.

After they ran the coins back to the bank and talked to Marty and found the name was legit Joe dropped her off back at the book store to get Minerva, her car.

�Joe, if you need me tonight call me.� Said Rusty.

�I will but I don�t think you can help with this sting. At least we know whais Dis D�Onofrieo looks . He. He already has convictions waiting on him.� Said Joe.

�Yeah, ok but if you do I�ll be there.� Said Rusty.

�I know what you want. An excuse for an evening with me sorta, right?� He asked in a knowing voice.

�Well, yeah. I can�t help it. I love you Joe.� Said Rusty.

�I love you too Rusty. I really should be making tracks Honey. I�m sorry. I�ll call you later.� Said Joe.

�Ok if time permits. Just be careful.� Said Rusty.

�I will.� Said Joe and they kissed. He hugged her and she got out of the car and into hers. Joe drove off in the direction of the club he was operating out of. Rusty drove home.

She got there and opened the door. She closed the door and locked it. Got her jacket off and went to the fridge. She wished Joe was there but he was on a sting. The house seemed a bit on the lonesome side without him there. She ate dinner alone founfound an old sappy movie on cable, popped some popcorn and got her can of readi whip for something sweet. She settled down on the sofa for an evening alone when just as she was balling her head off watching the movie the phone rang.

�Yeah?� She asked almost in a sob.

�Hello Gorgeous.� Said Joe. �What�s up with you? You been crying?�

�Hello Handsome, sort of I�m watching a tear jerker on cable.� Said Rusty.

�I see, got the pop corn and the Redi Whip out do you?� He asked. �You know Rusty there are better things you can do��.�

�I know. You don�t have to tell me.� She giggled.

�That�s right I really shouldn�t should I?� Said Joe remembering just why and chuckling. �Why I called is you are not going to believe who just walked in.� Said Joe.

�Want me to guess?� She asked.

�Sure go ahead.� Said Joe.

�It�s D�Onofrieo.� Said Rusty.

�Bingo Rusty. He has some sort of connection with the owner of the club. He has been in the back office for a while now. I went back there to see what was going on and he has the coins in the safe. I could see the slabs you told us about today.� Said Joe.

�You want me to come and help?� She asked.

�You bet, how fast can you get here?� He asked.

�Three shakes of a lambs tail.� Said Rusty. �Just let me get dressed.�

�Interesting. Humm.� Said Joe chuckling. �So what are��..�

�Ok, now that is an old line you are fixin� to spout off to me and we don�t have time to mess around.� Said Rusty.

�Ok, but I�m asking for a rain check on this one.� Said Joe.

�You got it. Now let me get something more appropriate on.� Said Rusty.

�Ok, Honey. Don�t be too long.� Said Joe.

�I wont.� Said Rusty. They hung up and Rusty rushed to the closet to find something. She put on a two piece tiger striped halter outfit. She quickly grabbed her shoes and purse and got to the club pretty fast. Joe was waiting on her outside.

�Hello Gorgeous.� Said Joe he pulled her over to him and kissed her.

�Hello Handsome. My, my you are in an interesting mood.� Said Rusty.

�I am. Let�s go in. I�m managing the club tonight so you and I need to turn on the tight couple routine.� Said Joe. �They know I have a girl.�

�Just any ole girl?� She d ted teasing him.

�No, a special one.� said Joe. He opened up the door and they went into the darkened club.

�I see, you just wanted to get me in the dark for an evening.� Said Rusty still in tease mode.

�You got it Baby.� Said Joe. He took a real look at her. �Whew Rusty! Where did you find that outfit?�

�I was wondering if you would notice or not.� Said Rusty slyly.

�I�d have to be either blind or dead three days not too.� Said Joe. �We need to go back to the office and see if I was right or not.�

�Ok so do you have the combination or are we going into the safe cracking bidness?� She asked.

�I have the combination.� Said Joe as he took her hand and they went to the office. The lock on it stuck a bit. Joe finally got the door opened up.

Joe opened up the safe Rusty locked the door and got her pin light out. He opened the safe door and she looked at the slabs of coins inside.

�Yeah, you were listening alright.� Said Rusty. She began to look at the slabs. She frowned.

�What�s wrong?� He asked.

�These slaave ave been tampered with.� Said Rusty.

�Opened you mean?� He asked.

�Yeah and what is on them from the Numismatic Association doesn�t fit what coin is inside.� Said Rusty. �This is bigger than I thought. Joe the value of these coins are far less than the cover value. I have to hand it to them though. It�s just under what it is supposed to be.� Said Rusty.

�What does this mean then for the sting operation?� He asked.

�Means that I should be at home and not in here right now.� Said Rusty. �I�ll have to be at the buy. It�s already set up.�

�So these are not the coins? The one�s the Henderson�s had?� Asked Joe.

�I don�t think so.� Said Rusty.

�Well, in this you are the expert.� Said Joe. �I guess you need to go.�

�Yeah and just when I got you were I wanted you too.� Said Rusty smirking a smile at him.

�I think someone is having ulterior motives.� Said Joe smirking at her.

�Well, after what we had said to each other today��I think you would be having some yourself Handsome.�

�Well, I do but��since you have to leave there isn�t much use in me starting something.� Said Joe. �Are you sure they aren�t the real Mc Coy?�

�Just under.� Said Rusty. �But I didn�t know what they looked like when the Henderson�s had them. For all I know the Henderson�s��Oh Joe the Henderson�s switched these. They were avid collectors. They were collecting and grading when I was a kid. So what ever they stole from the house was bogus because of the Henderson�s. They would have known how to make the switches. These guys have no idea they have been dooped and killed the Henderson�s for nothing. I bet the real one�s are in a safe deposit box somewhere.� Said Rusty putting the coins back. She shut the door and rotated the tumbler.

�Are you sure about all this?� Asked Joe.

�Yeah, I�m positive. I taught Max enough that he might catch on but I am going to have to tell him these are not the real one�s. We can go ahead and buy them. I wont need to be there. So I can stay a while. Help you out a little.� Said Rusty raising her eyebrow again.

�From the looks of it you might just help yourself Rusty.� Said Joe starting a smile.

The door started unlocking about that time. It had stuck on Joe as he tried to get it opened. Rusty pulled Joe over to a couch sitting near by. Joe knew what she was doing. She mussed her hair and his a little and planted some lipstick here and there on his face.

�Improvise my Darlin�.� Said Rusty sitting astraddle his legs.

�Ok.� Said Joe He grabbed her and kissed her as the door opened and two men walked in and turned on the light.

�Oh, Joe what are you doing��Forget I asked.� said one man. Rusty looked back. Rusty dismounted the position she was in.

�Sorry Clifford.� Said Joe wiping off the lipstick.

�No man, next time just put something on the door. I guess this is your girl.� Said Clifford.

�Yeah, this is Rusty. Rusty meet Clifford the owner of the club.� Said Joe as he and Rusty got up and straitened their clothes.

�Good to meet you Rusty and welcome.� Said Clifford.

�Thanks, good to meet you too.� Said Rusty.

�We will get out of your hair. Come on Rusty let me buy you a drink.� Said Joe. He took her hand and they started going out the door.

�Joe her money is no good here. What ever she wants let her have it.� Said Clifford.

�Thanks Clifford. I�m sure I can find what she wants.� Said Joe as Rusty giggled at him.

They stood in the hall for a moment.

�That was close but you think faster than I do. I�m glad I called you.� Said Joe.

�Can you tell me what is going on that you have to be here by yourself?� She asked.

�I�ll tell you later or if the guy comes in that is my contact. I haven�t seen him tonight.� Said Joe.

�How about a drink Handsome?� She asked.

�How about I get you some champagne Gorgeous?� Asked Joe.

�Sure.� Said Rusty.

�Ok I�ll go and get a bottle.� Said Joe. �I thought we might toast to new beginnings.�

Just as he was going to go to the wine cellar one of his contacts came in and sat at the bar. Rusty went and sat down further from him and Joe got behind the bar.

�Joe, we have a problem.� Said the man. �Your informer has been shot.�

�What do you mean Chico?� Asked Joe.

�He�s dead Joe.� Said Chico. Joe looked at Rusty and then at the man.

�How�d it happen?� Asked Joe.

�Drive by shooting. We can�t talk here. Too much distraction.� Said Chico pointing at Rusty.

�Yeah aint she a beauty?� Asked Joe. �Wouldn�t ya just like to get a hold of her for the evening?�

�Yeah, and I bet she eats guys like us for dinner.� Said Chico. Joe asked him to go out toward the dance floor. And they sat at a table there. Rusty turned around on the bar stool and crossed her legs then draped herself there.

�Now what hapd tod to Peppy?� Asked Joe.

�He was too close to finding out about that Meth shipment. A hit was placed on him. I should know I was asked first. I can�t stay long.� Said Chico.

�Did you find out when that is to happen?� Asked Joe.

�No, but Peppy did give me this for you to analyze. It�s a new form of Meth called Enhance. Not only does it have the meth qualities it has some of the qualities of Acid and Angel dust. Most people can�t take it. Will cause a heart attack within an hour of taking it.� said the man. He handed the stuff over to Joe who put it in his pocket.

�I�ll have it analyzed.� Said Joe. �For now we are closing down the sting here just for a few nights. Since Peppy is gone we can�t find out about the shipments unless you want to try and find out. I�ll have to re plan this soon as possible. This stuff is too hot to be out on the streets.�

�Ok, I�ll give you a call tomorrow and see what I can dig up. I had better get out of here.� Said Chico getting up and turning around. He saw Rusty sitting poised.

�Joe be careful if you chance that red head. I bet those legs could crush you.� Chico said trying to warn Joe.

�I wouldn�t worry too much. She way out of my league.� Said Joe. �But I bet you are right.�

�Later then.� Chico walked off and out of the bar. Joe got a look at Rusty still sitting perched. She smiled at him winked and crooked her finger to him. Joe smiled and went over to her. He stood at the bar leaning on it.

�Honey, you are causing a stir.� Said Joe.

She looked around. �No I�m not.�

�Oh yes you are.� Said Joe as he sat on the bar stool next to her.

�Maybe for you��..�

�We have problems.� Said Joe. �I mean with this sting here at the club.�

�You�ll have to fill me in on it. Is there anything I can do to help?� She asked.

�Yeah, I think there is. Didn�t you tell me that back in Texas you had a lot of trouble with Meth labs?� He asked.

�Yes. They were honeycombed all over the state. Meth is easy to make and distribute.� Said Rusty.

A slow song was being played. �Rusty come and dance with me.� Said Joe putting his hand out.

�That sounds familiar.� She giggled. �At least this time it will look natural.�

�Yeah, it will.� Said Joe smiling as she took his hand and they made their way to the dance floor.

�We aren�t dancing out the door this time.� Said Joe as they went into each others arms.

�Good, I was hoping not.� Said Rusty.

�Peppy, my informant was killed. I was here to start a sting to bust a new kind of Meth.� Said Joe.

�And Marty didn�t put anyone with you?� She asked.

�I told him that I would bring you in when it was time.� Said Joe.

�Ok, so I�m in now. This new Meth it�s dangerous isn�t it?� She asked.

�Yeah, it�s got elements of Meth, Acid and Angel Dust. It�s dangerous, can cause a heart attack in most people an hour after they take it.� said Joe.

�Oh good Lord!� Said Rusty looking Joe in the face. �Now your informant is dead and you don�t know when the shipment is coming in or where?�

�Very good Rusty. How�d I get so lucky as to have a woman read my mind?� He asked.

�I just know what�s there. I can�t understand that myself Joe. So what will you do?� She asked.

�I was hoping now that you are in this you would have some ideas.� Said Joe.

�I�ll have to think on it for just a little while. If Clifford is the owner of the club maybe he has the answers. Maybe even had your informant killed.� Said Rusty.

�Yeah, I was beginning to think that myself.� said Joe. The song ended and another one began. Another slow one.

�Now, let�s enjoy this song ok? Will give you time to think.� Said Joe. �I�m here till it closes tonight. Do you want to stay with me?�

�Silly boy of course.� Said Rusty as they started dancing cheek to cheek.

�I�ll call Darnell and tell him it would have to be later on tomorrow to meet with Max Rosenhiem.� Said Joe.

�Good idea. This staying up all night and having to get up early the next morning is for the younger set.� Said Rusty.

�You know Rusty you are not as old as you just said you were.� Said Joe.

�I know but, I also know I can�t do what I did 20 years ago and get away with it anymore.� Said Rusty her mind being two places at once. �What do you want to bet Clifford has the evidence in the safe or hidden somewhere in his office.�

�I swear sometimes Rusty you switch gears on me too fast. But you might be right.� Said Joe. You want to check on that in a little bit after we see that Clifford is gone with the other guy?�

�Yeah, we have to look everywhere though. After we close up and everyone is gone.� Said Rusty.

�What do you want to do for the next couple of hours?� He asked.

�I guess just see after the club and I�ll see after you.� Said Rusty tightening her hold on him.

�You know Rusty this is going to get interesting fast.� Said Joe.

�You got that right Handsome.� Said Rusty.

After the club closed Joe told everyone he would lock up. He and Rusty started looking for evidence in the safe. They opened it up and the coins were gone.

�I thought so.� said Rusty.

�I thought so too.� Said Joe. They looked into the papers that were there. Nothing unusual.

�Ok so what now?� Asked Joe. �Do we start tearing the place apart?�

�Almost.� Said Rusty. They began looking into things drawers shelves and then Joe started at the books on the shelves. He started pulling on them seeing if they had something false about them.

�Nothing is turning up.� Said Joe.

�What ever it was it�s not here now. I bet they took it with them.� Said Rusty.

�Yeah, and the coins.� Said Joe.

�So what do you want to do now?� She asked. �It�s 3 in the morning.�

�I guess clean this up a little and go home.� Said Joe. �I�m going to have to go and turn this stuff in that Chico gave me.�

�Oh the guy that came in.� Said Rusty. �He was eyeing me.�

�Yeah, he was he warned me about you. Said that I needed to be careful.� Said Joe as they put everything back.

�Oh he did?� She asked.

�Yeah, but I told him you were outta my league.� Said Joe.

�Darlin� you aren�t.� Said Rusty.

�I know but I wanted things to look real. He doesn�t need to know who you are. I guess it�s back to square one with this.� Said Joe as they turned off the light and started walking to the door. �I called Darnell told him we�d be late tomorrow. He said he called Max and that Max said he was ok with what you already told him. I advised Darnell of what we found tonight. I guess they upped the date on the sale.�

�Ok did you tell Darnell that the coins were bogus?� Asked Rusty.

�Yeah and after the sale D�Onofrieo was to be followed.� Said Joe. �Let�s just go home and go to bed. I�m bushed.� Joe yawned.

�Yeah, we can just go on to bed.� Said Rusty. �The sale will probably take place tomorrow. I think Max will do fine. I estimated the value for him of the real deal. Since he knows they are bogus��..� Rusty yawned herself. �Sorry, See ya at home Handsome.�

�Ok Honey. Thanks for coming down tonight. When I know more on this sting we can talk about it then..� Said Joe. �Let�s just call it a night.�

Joe hugged her and gave her a kiss.

�See you back at the house, Handsome. � Said Rusty.

�You bet Gorgeous.� Said Joe. He let her hand go so they could go home.

The next day around noon Rusty and Joe were dressed and in the kitchen making coffee.

�How did you sleep handsome?� Rusty asked handing him a cup.

�Pretty good. I know I�m as bushed as you are. How about some breakfast or more like brunch?� He asked. �How did you sleep Gorgeous?�

�About the same as you. Ok, I�ll cook.� Said Rusty.

�No I meant us going somewhere. We really need to have a plan to take to Marty as soon as we can.� said Joe.

�I have an idea but it would involve Darnell going into the play.� Said Rusty.

�I had the same thought but he is in on the coin buy isn�t he?� Asked Joe

�Darnell is not in play on the sale really. Max has that honor. Lily can be there with him. Darnell to my knowledge has no dealings in it. Doesn�t matter who is there I guess.� Said Rusty.

�Darnell will have to join us for breakfast.� Said Joe.

�That�s fine. Let�s go sit out on the porch. We have so little time for that.� Said Rusty.

�Ok, I know how much you love that porch. I�m pretty much in agreement with you on it too.� Said Joe trying not to laugh. �Just as soon as things calm down��..�

�I hear ya.� Said Rusty giggling a bit.

�I�ll call Darnell.� Said Joe. �Believe me Rusty when both of us aren�t so tired��.�

�Ok. I hear ya.� Said Rusty as they went to sit outside on the swing. They got comfortable and Rusty was leaning up against Joe sipping coffee.

�At least we can enjoy one simple pleasure today before everything starts up.� Said Joe starting up the movement of the swing. They put their coffee�s on the end table they had put beside the swing.

�Yeah. I�m really glad we have a few minutes just to relax and enjoy this.� said Rusty smiling up at him. Joe looked down at her and wrapped his arms around her.

�Since I met you Rusty I feel about 10 years younger. You wont let me mull in shit like most would.� Said Joe. �I am a very lucky man.�

�You think so do you Handsome? Well, I am the lucky one.� said Rusty starting to smile at him.

�I never get tired of things like this. I want to eat it up and save it for days like yesterday.� Said Joe. �You make all this worth it.�

�You do too. I will never get enough of you in or out of our bedroom. I love you Darlin�.� Said Rusty taking his hand and squeezing it.

�I love you too. You ever thought about buying this house?� He asked.

�Yeah, I wish I knew how to go about that but I just don�t. An old lady in a nursing home owns it. She uses the rent I pay each month to make ends meet.� Said Rusty.

�Humm. What�s this ladies name and does she still own it or does someone else?� He asked.

�Why are you asking all these questions Joe?� She asked. �Her name is Mrs. Beth Ryan.�

�Oh I don�t know. I just wondered that�s all.� Said Joe as he hugged her tighter. After that she rose up a little and they started kissing.

A boy about 10 that lived down the block came by on his bike.

�Hey Rusty!� Yelled the boy. Joe stopped.

�Hey Michael.� Yelled Rusty as Joe looked over at the boy.

�When are you and Joe gonna get married?� He asked as he got closer on the sidewalk with his bike.

�She wont tell me.� Said Joe. Rusty pushed Joe�s arm.

�Rusty now that�s not good. Joe�s a nice man you should let him know. It would be nice to have someone new to play with.� Said Michael grinning at them.

Rusty giggled. �Michael you already come and play with Joe and me whenever you want. Getting married wouldn�t change that.� Said Rusty.

�Oh no that�s not what I meant.� Said Michael. �I meant that after you and Joe get married you can have kids and then there would be someone new to play with.� said Michael. Joe and Rusty started to laugh. They got up and went down to the boy.

�Michael, I doubt if there will be kids for Joe and me. I�m too old.� Said Rusty.

�My mom said you weren�t. See she�s 50.� Said Michael. �I asked her if she thought that you might.�

Joe and Rusty looked at each other. Then laughed.

�We will see Michael after we are married.� Said Joe smiling at the boy. He ruffed the boys crew cut a bit.

�That�s good. Now Rusty you have to tell him when.� Said Michael.

�Ok I�ll look at the calendar and try and decide.� Said Rusty as the boy put the bike down and hugged her.

�Good. I�m glad we all got that settled.� Said Michael. Rusty hugged him back.

�Yeah and I wonder who put you up to that?� She asked Michael.

He looked up at her innocently. �Rusty I thought that up on my own. It was nice of you to find someone that likes kids. Joe�s been a lot of fun and so have you.� Said Michael. �After my Pop died��well I couldn�t have asked for better friends.� Rusty almost broke and cried at that point.

�You are gonna make me cry Michael.� Said Rusty.

�I mean it Rusty and Joe.� Said Michael. Joe came over and a group hug ensued. Joe had learned when to do that because it was another demand of Rusty�s he wouldn�t and couldn�t refuse.

�You�re a good kid Michael. Listen, I hate to break this up but we have to go. We have a friend to meet for Lunch.� Said Joe hugging the boy and letting him go. Michael let him and Rusty go.

�Ok let me know when you are gonna get married. I can take the rings to you. I did this before at my aunts wedding not long ago.� Said Michael smiling and gathering up his bike.

�We will.� Said Joe putting his arm around Rusty. �See ya later Michael.�

�Bye Michael.� Said Rusty as he waved and smiled then sped on down the street on his bike.

�I swear Rusty I didn�t put him up to that.� Said Joe innocently.

�I�m sure you didn�t now.� Said Rusty looking up at him.

�So, when are we going to get married?� Asked Joe.

�Let�s look at the calendar and you and I decide this together since you want me so bad. You just wanna change my name.

�No, that�s not the reason but I guess you can think what you want too.� Said Joe starting to chuckle.

�You are a bad boy.� Said Rusty squeezing the hold she had on him.

�That�s why you love me.� Said Joe still in chuckle mode.

�One of the reasons I guess.� Said Rusty in a playful tone.

�We have to get outta here. We are going to be late.� Said Joe letting her go.

�Yeah, Come on.� Said Rusty heading up to the porch.

�Get your purse and hurry it up!� Yelled Joe as he got into Minerva and started her up.

She ran back after she retrieved her purse and hopped in Minerva.

�See, it doesn�t take me long to get things.� Said Rusty.

�I know.� Said Joe shaking his head and driving off toward the Diner where they would meet up with Darnell. They started talking about things on the way over.

�Now what do you want to do with Darnell? I thought he might get in with Chico.� Said Joe.

�Yeah that is what I thought too. You gonna let him wear that appliance in his mouth?� She asked.

�I think it would help. Darnell does a good drug dealer. That�s how Lily and Darnell met. I put her out on the street for her initiation and he was the guy I had her watch.� Said Joe.

�You let that sweet young girl out on the street like you would abandoning a cat or a dog?� Asked Rusty.

�Well, yeah but she passed the test.� said Joe.

�I would have done the same thing.� Said Rusty. �I think Lily is so sweet but she has another side to her. She may not have a lot of experience but she has the will.�

�Yeah, I know. I�m glad you see that not having worked with her before much.� Said Joe.

�Darnell is just the sweetest young man. He�s professional and he is smart you are right about that.� Said Rusty. �I think he will do just fine. Did you get a hold of Chico?�

�Not yet. I want his take first.� Said Joe. �It wont be a problem I don�t think, Chico wants this over and that shit they are making off the streets it�s dangerous Rus

�Yeah, you told me. You shutting down the operation at the club?� Asked Rusty.

�No I decided that I�m staying so that Darnell can get in. You wanna go with me?� He asked. �I�d like to see what else is in that closet of yours. That was some out fit last night.�

�I can see lik liked it. I have others that you haven�t seen yet.� said Rusty.

Joe got a smile going. �Yeah?�

�Yep.� Said Rusty.

�This is getting hard to handle Rusty. I�m sorry.� Said Joe.

�Joe Renato, don�t ever be sorry you feel that way. Unless it embarrasses you. Then we need to talk.� Said Rusty.

�No I�m not embarrassed. I would be if I was 18 I guess. But embarrassment isn�t the feeling I�ve got.�

�Yeah, I know. I read faces pretty well.� Said Rusty. �Yours I have memorized.�

�Humm, well that�s good. I have you memorized too.� Said Joe.

�That�s good.� said Rusty. �Nice to be wanted so much and so often.�

�Yeah, It is isn�t it? I�ll never get enough of you. � Said Joe. �I promise you we will take a trip together soon Rusty.�

�I would love that to have your undivided attention for several days. But that might lead to trouble.� Said Rusty.
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The Handler