Doyle's grip tightened on the dashboard as Bodie took the corner without slowing. He spared a sidelong glance at his partner's profile, blue eyes intense on the road before them and mouth set with grim concentration. He tore his attention away, forcing his mind back to the job at hand. He had accepted the fact Bodie was unattainable a long time ago, keeping his yearnings under the tightest of control, but recently he had found himself slipping and thinking about Bodie when they were on the job instead of waiting to indulge his flights of fancy while in the privacy of his own home.

"Keep an eye out. The house should be just up ahead." Bodie down shifted, slowing the car as he drove up the residential street. "Providing of course Cowley has the right address." He had seen Doyle's expression out of the corner of his eye when Doyle had thought he had been too distracted by driving to notice. Unsure exactly what was going on in that complicated head of his partner, Bodie found himself waiting and watching. He couldn't take the chance that his own feelings were colouring his outlook and projecting what he desired onto his partner's behaviour.

"There," said Doyle, pointing to a house that looked like every other one of its neighbours. Cowley had ordered them to secure the location of a terrorist sect since they were the closest to the area, stressing to get there before the sect disappeared. The old man was on his way, along with other members of CI5, and expected to find everything nicely packaged for him when he arrived.

Pulling over to the side and down a ways, Bodie parked and turned off the car. He shared a look with Doyle as they each withdrew and checked their guns. "Ready to go make like Butch and Sundance?" He grinned and wiggled his eyebrows. Although other agents were en route, they weren't expected to sit and wait for them.

"Hopefully with a better ending," muttered Doyle, opening his car door and slipping out.

They moved together, hunching down as they crossed the grass until they had their backs pressed against the house on either side of the front door. Bodie nodded and Doyle moved, kicking in the door. Moving in unison, they quickly burst inside with their guns ready. Quiet and emptiness greeted them.

"Looks like we're too late," said Bodie, keeping his voice low and stepping lightly around the room.

"Looks like," agreed Doyle quietly, moving in tandem around the opposite side of the vacant room. "I'll let you break the news to the Cow."

They quickly and as silently as possible searched the ground floor. Signs were everywhere of recent occupation. Recent enough, that abandoned cartons of half eaten takeaway still sat upon the kitchen table. Unfortunately, it appeared the lunatic bombers had bolted, but past experience had taught them that appearances could be deceiving.

Doyle discovered hastily burned paper still smouldered in the fireplace, only partially destroyed. Bodie continued to check the small room off to the side while Doyle pulled out the charred remains, preserving what was left for the follow up team to look over.

Having searched the lower floor, they approached the stairs that led upward. Taking the lead, Bodie silently climbed the stairs, pressing close to the wall. Doyle followed, his body tense and ready should they discover someone hiding in one of the upper rooms or on the landing just out of sight.

Reaching the top of the stairs, they found four doors, two on either side of the narrow hallway. The farthest door on the right, whose room faced the front street, was closed. Motioning silently with the a nod of his head, Ray chose to investigate the room on the left, leaving the room opposite for Bodie.

They looked into the rooms, noting that bare mattresses were the only furniture in each of them. The next open doorway on the left proved to be the bathroom. There remained one room to be searched to verify that the house was indeed empty of its inhabitants.

Taking up stances on either side of the closed door, Bodie eased the door handle open, his gun ready. Once the door latch was clear, he adjusted his grip on his gun and nodded to Doyle to push it all the way open from his side.

Timing borne of working together, Doyle shoved the door open and Bodie rolled inside the room, coming up into a kneeling position. Doyle swung into the room behind him, his own gun covering the deserted room.

Doyle whistled at their find. Boxes were stacked along the wall behind the door and a table stretched along the opposite wall near the window.

"Looks like they didn't get a chance to take everything with 'em," said Doyle, walking over to the table. He spotted a folded map that had fallen to the floor and picked it up.

"What you got there?" asked Bodie, looking over his shoulder toward Doyle. He had lifted the flaps on the boxes and discovered an assortment of books and papers with what looked like instructional diagrams.

"Their next targets by the look of it," answered Doyle, unfolding the well-worn map. Areas had been circled in red with dates written beside them.

"Why don't you go on down and call it in," suggested Bodie. "I'll finish checking these out and meet you down at the car."

"Don't mess around too much, mate," said Doyle, refolding the map and tucking it into the inside pocket of his jacket. "The Cow'll want to see everything as it is." He left the room, taking the stairs two at a time as he hurried to the car to inform their boss of their findings.

Bodie finished his quick survey and moved toward the table to see if anything else had been left behind. Squatting down, he searched the area near the back, but found nothing more. He moved to stand and out of the corner of his eye caught a wire running from the door and disappearing behind the stack of boxes. The hair on the back of his neck stood up and he was moving toward the window to escape the house entirely by the quickest means available. He gripped the bottom windowpane, lifting it to climb out and drop to the ground when a sharp, piercing beep caused him to look back. The blinding flash and intense heat hit him as unimaginable pain struck, forcing him through the window to fall on the grass below.

The unexpected explosion had Doyle ducking to the relative safety of the car as debris rained down. He lifted his head and the first sight that greeted him was the flickering flames and billowing smoke curling out of the second floor window. His stomach tightened at the destruction, his immediate thought centred on Bodie. Shoving the car door open, he stumbled as he bolted toward the house. Dodging the remaining debris as it fell, the crumpled form of his partner caught his attention. "BODIE!"

---

Doyle paced back and forth in the small waiting area, oblivious to the piercing gaze of his boss who sat in one of the chairs. He had ridden with Bodie to Casualty, willing his partner to wake up. The smell of singed hair and burnt skin filled his lungs, as he watched over his unconscious partner. Only the shallow rise and fall of Bodie's chest assured him he was still alive.

"Sit down, Doyle."

Startled, Doyle paused in mid stride and turned to face Cowley.

"Come on, lad," said Cowley, motioning toward the vacant chair beside him. "Won't be doing anyone any good wearing out the carpet."

"Not doing anyone any good anyhow," said Doyle, walking toward the doorway and peering around for someone to update them on Bodie's condition. So intent on the welfare of his partner, Doyle was unaware of the smears of blood on his shirt and jeans.

It had been over an hour since Bodie had been rushed here. The last image of his partner being wheeled down the white corridor was still fresh in his mind.

"He's tough, our Bodie," said Cowley "Been through worse and came out fine."

"Worse?" repeated Doyle, turning back to once again pace the room, his hands gesturing. "Worse than being blown up and thrown out of an upper floor window? Worse than being at the centre of an explosion that was meant to kill anyone in that room?"

"Aye." Cowley narrowed his eyes and waited for Doyle to look at him. "If it doesn't kill him outright, Bodie will survive. He's a survivor, Doyle, just like you. You're both too damn stubborn to let anything like this beat you."

Doyle studied him, wanting to believe that Bodie would be fine.

"Excuse me."

Cowley abruptly stood up and Doyle turned to face the tired physician.

"How is he?" demanded Doyle, his tone harsh from worry.

"He'll live. He's a very lucky man," said the doctor.

Cowley nodded slightly. "What is his exact condition?"

"Multiple lacerations over most of his body, along with second degree burns on his face and hands, plus a concussion," listed the doctor. "What concerns me the most are his eyes. We can't be sure of the extent of the damage at this time."

"Why not?" Doyle demanded, digesting the rundown of Bodie's injuries, while the fact that he hadn't lost him remained uppermost in his mind.

"For one, he hasn't regained consciousness yet," answered the doctor, obviously making an effort to respond calmly to Doyle's agitation. "Even then, we'll have to wait. For the next two weeks, his eyes are going to be covered until the skin around the eyes and the eyelids themselves have a chance to heal."

---

Doyle sat on the edge of the bed, taking in the damaged face of his partner. After being cleaned up, Bodie's injuries didn't appear as bad as they had at first. Ironically, being thrown out the window had saved Bodie's life otherwise he would have taken the full brunt of the explosion, had he been trapped.

Doyle found himself leaning closer, listening to the steady, rhythmic breathing that soothed him. The skin that wasn't covered in gauze was bright red with a scattering of blisters.

"That bad, eh, Ray?"

Doyle jumped. He had thought Bodie was asleep since he hadn't moved or said or word since he had come in and sat down. "Bodie?"

"As far as I know it's me underneath all this gauze." Bodie tried to smile, but the skin around his mouth pulled tight.

"How'd you know it was me sitting 'ere?" asked Doyle, his gaze travelling down the length of Bodie's prone body.

"Who else would be hovering over me?" answered Bodie, moving his head in Doyle's general direction. "Can't picture Cowley playing the mother hen." There really wasn't anyone else who would have sat directly on the bed next to him without thinking twice, besides the fact he had recognized Doyle's aftershave.

Doyle grinned, happy to see Bodie was attempting to be his usual self.

"You didn't answer my question," said Bodie, lifting a hand to gently explore the white gauze covering his eyes.

Doyle automatically reached out and carefully guided the questing hand away from the sterile dressing, mindful of the myriad of injuries there as well. "What question was that?"

"How bad is it?" Bodie didn't want to ask anyone else, not able to trust them to be honest.

"The doctor said there should be minimal scarring, you'll be as beautiful as ever." Doyle paused a heartbeat, waiting for Bodie to make his usual remarks, but Bodie remained silent. "The cuts and bruises aren't serious, but I bet they hurt like hell. Especially since there's a lot of 'em." He started to withdraw his hand that still lightly held Bodie's, but the slight tightening of Bodie's fingers stopped him.

"What about my eyes?" Bodie braced himself for the worst. He tried to imagine how Doyle looked sitting beside him. Would the green eyes be filled with pity or reassurance?

Doyle hesitated, unsure how to answer the question.

"Am I blind?" Bodie's voice gruff as the muscle in his jaw clenched.

"They just want to keep your eyes protected until the surrounding skin and eyelids heal. Having them covered will keep you from batting those baby blues at every skirt that waltzes in here, and irritating the skin." Doyle rested his other hand on Bodie's stomach, wanting to relay as much comfort as he could since his partner couldn't see him.

"But what about my eyesight?" persisted Bodie, covering Doyle's hand on his stomach.

"They don't know. It looks good, though," Doyle hastened to add. "The protective covering should come off in about two weeks. Until then, it's just a waiting game."

Bodie didn't say anything, digesting the news that there was a chance he had indeed lost his sight.

"Can I get you anything?" asked Doyle, wanting to dispel the heavy silence that had fallen between them.

Bodie moved his head slightly to the negative. He was trying to come to grips with the real possibility of not ever seeing again. He wouldn't be able to do the job, and if he couldn't do the job, he would lose Doyle. That was what hurt the most.

"I'll be here, Bodie. Anything you need or want, I promise. You've got to trust me," said Doyle, sensing the line of thoughts that were going on in Bodie's head. He couldn't imagine being in Bodie's position, he'd probably be throwing things and cursing at everyone within reach.

"Get me out of here," said Bodie, surprising Doyle.

"What?"

"What's keeping me here?"

"Other than the fact you just got blown up, nothing comes to mind." Doyle furrowed his eyebrows, wondering what Bodie was up to.

"Then get me out of here, Ray," repeated Bodie.

"But Bodie..." started Doyle, but stopped as Bodie's hold tightened on his hands, despite how much it had to hurt to do so.

"Please. You said to trust you, mate," interrupted Bodie. "Can't think of anyone else I do trust. I certainly don't want strangers coming and going while I'm stuck in here. 'Specially when I can't see who they are or what they're doing."

"Not sure if they'll release you," said Doyle.

"Then convince 'em." Bodie's lips pressed together, whitening the skin around his mouth.

---

Even with Bodie and Doyle both pestering him, it took a week before the doctor would relent. The worst of Bodie's cuts were on the mend, but the covering on his eyes was to remain for yet another week. With promises given by both men to return in a week, he grudgingly signed Bodie out with instructions not to try and use his eyes when the sterile dressing was changed.

Bodie leaned his head back as Doyle drove them through the city. He felt better once he was out of the hospital room and heading for his own place. He felt more in control. He hands were still tender, but he had been lucky that no serious or permanent damage had been inflicted on them.

Doyle had assured the doctor he would make sure Bodie followed doctor's orders and Cowley had agreed to take him off active duty to mind Bodie. It was an unspoken fact that Doyle's concentration wouldn't be on the job, and having one of his best agents out of service due to injury was bad enough.

"We're here," announced Doyle, shutting off the car. He turned to look at Bodie, who hadn't said a word since they got in the car. He climbed out and trotted over to the passenger side as Bodie opened his door. The idea of being bound to the hip with Bodie had his adrenaline running high. Despite the constant nearness that would more than likely play havoc with his libido, he wouldn't relinquish Bodie's care to anyone else. "Take me arm."

Bodie reached out and grasped Doyle just above the elbow. Without hesitation, he followed Doyle's lead, testament to the depth of his trust. With a subtle shift of his head, he inhaled the comforting scent of his partner and a small smile passed his lips.

"That's it," encouraged Doyle, guiding Bodie up the narrow pathway and toward the small landing that led into the building. "Three steps, mate."

Bodie kept Doyle close, feeling his partner's movements that guided him past hidden obstacles. "You make a good guide dog," he teased.

"More like your watchdog," retorted Doyle, unlocking the door to Bodie's flat. Manoeuvring inside, Doyle guided Bodie to the settee before turning back to lock the door. "Want me to fix you something to eat?"

"More knackered than hungry," admitted Bodie, slouching down and resting his head on the back of the settee.

For Bodie to decline the offer of food spoke volumes to Doyle. "Want to take a kip here or in bed?"

"Bed." Bodie pulled himself to his feet and started to walk in the general direction of his bedroom.

"Hang about," said Doyle, hurrying to Bodie's side. "Can't have you walking into walls, or I'll be the one who'll get it."

"Gonna tuck me in, too?" asked Bodie, but he allowed Doyle to steer him toward his bed.

"Of course, full service for you, mate," grinned Doyle. "Take better care of you than your own mum."

Bodie snorted as he eased down on the bed. "That won't be too hard."

Doyle wanted to kick himself for his choice of words. Over the years he had gathered Bodie's home life hadn't been the best. He knelt and slipped off Bodie's boots then reached up to unbutton his shirt.

"Hold up there, Ray," said Bodie, leaning back and away from Doyle's hands. He didn't object so much to the fact someone else was undressing him, it was the fact that it was Doyle who was doing it. He didn't trust himself not to react physically to the intimate touches that would be unavoidable.

"If you want to try and sleep fully dressed, be my guest," said Doyle, rising to his feet, but remaining in front of Bodie.

"I can undress meself." Determined to at least get his shirt loose, Bodie gritted his teeth and forced his hands to obey him. Stiff fingers protested as he struggled to undo the small buttons.

"Uh huh." Doyle placed his hands on his hips and waited. When he had picked Bodie up from hospital, Bodie had already been dressed and waiting. He knew a sister had to have helped him, considering his hands weren't in the best of shape. He watched as Bodie clenched his jaw in defiance and tried to slip the buttons through the holes.

Just when Doyle decided enough was enough and had reached forward to take over, Bodie let out a growl of frustration and pulled at the material, popping the buttons. "Well, that was productive," said Doyle.

"Fuck off, Ray," muttered Bodie, lying back and turning away from Doyle. He curled his hands close to his chest. They ached from the force of pulling open his shirt.

"Not likely," sighed Doyle. "You're stuck with me whether you like it or not." He bent to gather what buttons he could see from the floor and placed them on the small table beside the bed.

After a moment Bodie let out a sigh. "Sorry, mate. Not used to having to depend on someone else for such little things as gettin' ready to sleep."

"Don't worry about it," said Doyle, settling on the bed next to him. "You're handling it better than I would if our places were reversed."

"Ah, but you wouldn't have ruined one of your perfectly good shirts," said Bodie, his voice less strained and more his usual self. The hint of humour could be heard even if it was a little forced.

"Of course not," said Doyle, deciding to react with the same attempt at levity. "I would have ruined one of yours." He barely ducked in time as a pillow was swung around, aimed for the general direction of his head.

---

Doyle kept peeking into the bedroom to check on Bodie, who hadn't made the slightest move since settling into bed. He had made dinner of pasta and garlic bread, which he had been keeping warm until Bodie finally decided to stir. Moving back into the lounge, he sat down on the settee and turned on the telly, keeping the volume low. He flipped through the channels until he found a game.

The game was half over when he heard the sound of breaking glass, followed by cursing. He jumped off the settee and rushed into the bathroom where the noise had come from.

"What the 'ell do you think you're doing, Bodie?" demanded Doyle, as he took in the broken glass on the floor that had been knocked off the sink.

"What do you think?" snapped Bodie. "Now if you don't mind, I've got a little business to take care of." He stood still, waiting for Doyle to leave.

"Look, let me help you out then I'll bring you in some track bottoms," said Doyle. "That way, you won't have to mess with any snaps or zippers." He took a step forward and started to undo Bodie's belt buckle, trying to blank his mind as to how close his hands were to what he wanted to really be touching.

In this particular situation Bodie gritted his teeth as he felt Doyle's fingers tug at his belt. "This is humiliating," mumbled Bodie, as Doyle finished unzipping his slacks. If the call of nature hadn't been of such dire need, he would have brushed off Doyle's help.

"It's just me, mate," said Doyle, selfishly glad Bodie couldn't see the bulge stretching the front of his jeans. "M'not doin' anything you wouldn't do for me." He stepped back toward the bathroom door as Bodie hooked his thumbs under the waistband in preparation to push his trousers down. "I'll go get your track bottoms and get this glass cleaned up before one of us cuts ourselves."

Bodie tilted his head, listening as Doyle exited the room. Sighing in resignation of being so dependent on Doyle, he set about dealing with necessities as best as he could.

---

Eating proved to be a challenge. The simple act of balancing a fork and guiding it to his mouth was damn near impossible with his stiff hands and lack of sight. He had finally consented to being fed during his stay at hospital, but now he refused Doyle's offer to help, determined to be able to do one thing on his own.

Doyle placed the dishes beside the sink to wash up later, then moved to guide Bodie toward the settee. He slipped into the bathroom and came back with a damp flannel. "Going to clean off some of the sauce on your face, Bodie." He didn't want to take the chance of startling his partner, and finding himself sprawled on the floor.

"I can do it," said Bodie, holding out his hand for the flannel.

"How will you know if you got it all or not?" asked Doyle, refusing to relinquish the wet flannel.

"I'm sure you'll let me know," ground out Bodie, waiting with his hand out.

"Don't start," warned Doyle. "I don't need you to make things more difficult than they are already. Just let me do what I can to help you, okay?"

"If it's so bloody difficult, why did you volunteer to mind me?" snapped Bodie, his lips pressed tightly together.

"Thought it would be obvious."

Bodie remained silent.

Doyle sighed and sat down next to Bodie on the settee. "We're more than just partners, Bodie. You're my best mate. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you, you should know that."

Bodie swallowed, hearing the truth in Doyle's words. He was being unfair and he knew it, but it was unnerving not to be able to read Doyle's expressions. He missed the furtive glances that were directed at him when Doyle thought he wasn't paying attention. "You'd do anything?"

"Well, within reason," grinned Doyle, carefully running the wet flannel over Bodie's chin, taking a closer look at the healing skin. "I mean, you'd have to give me a pretty good reason to help you dump a body for instance."

Bodie ignored the attempt at levity. "Would you be honest with me?"

Doyle furrowed his eyebrows as he took one last pass at the sauce. "Thought we were always honest with each other."

Bodie gathered his courage, knowing he was at a disadvantage without being able to see Doyle's expression, but figured even Doyle wouldn't hit a bloke who couldn't see to defend himself. "I'm counting on that."

"What is it, Bodie?"

"How do you really feel about me?" Bodie held his breath, not sure what to expect. Either Doyle would pretend not to understand or pass it off with one of his usual jokes.

"Feel about you?" repeated Doyle. His heart skipped a beat and his hand tightened on the flannel he still held. "Like I said before, you're my best mate. There's no one I trust more than you to watch my back."

"Outside of the job, Ray," pressed Bodie. Logically, he knew he should wait until the verdict of his eyesight was official, but emotions were never logical. He'd had plenty of time to think while he was laid up in bed, and he realised he didn't want to dance around the situation anymore. With the real possibility that he might not regain his eyesight, he figured he didn't have anything to lose. This way, there just might be a chance to build something between them that didn't depend on the job and their roles of being partners. Providing the fates chose to balance the scales a little.

Doyle stared at Bodie. He could either take a chance and reveal the truth, or bury his feelings.

"Forget it," said Bodie, when Doyle hadn't spoken. He stood up, reaching his hand out to follow the back of the settee. Why he seriously thought Doyle would even consider him, he didn't know. Especially with the very possible chance that he'd be more of a burden if he lost his eyesight.

"Wait," said Doyle, jumping to his feet and blocking Bodie from heading toward the bedroom.

"Just leave off, Ray. Forget I said anything, okay?"

"How do you figure I do that?" asked Doyle, moving a bit closer. "You ask me how I feel about you, then you walk away without letting me answer."

"Your silence was answer enough," said Bodie, trying to brush past.

Without thinking it through, Doyle reached up, cupping the back of Bodie's neck to stop him and kissed him gently on the lips before moving back in shock at his own actions. His eyes widened in astonishment, his breath caught in his throat.

Bodie gasped in surprise. The soft lips that graced his had disappeared as quickly as they had come.

"Sorry about that." Doyle braced himself for whatever reaction Bodie deemed fit. He wouldn't even attempt to dodge out of the way should a fist come toward him.

"Are you?" asked Bodie, his heart pounding.

Doyle opened his mouth to snap back a reply, then paused. He watched as Bodie traced his own lower lip with his finger instead of balling his hand up into a fist. "Honestly? No. So if you want to go ahead and wallop me one, I promise to stand right 'ere."

"Good," said Bodie, tentatively reaching out with his hand until he located Doyle's face. Carefully he traced the side of Doyle's face with the tips of his fingers, feeling the slight indention of his broken cheekbone.

Doyle grimaced, fully expecting Bodie to strike once he was satisfied as to where exactly his face was for a good, solid hit.

"Don't want to hit you," said Bodie, letting his fingers move along Doyle's cheek and over the soft, full lips.

"You're okay with this?" asked Doyle, still trying to accept that Bodie just might feel about him the same way.

"Been okay with it for a long time," said Bodie. "Just sorry it took something like this to bring it out in the open."

"Me, too," admitted Doyle, moving a bit closer.

"Want to kiss me again?" grinned Bodie, sensing Doyle's nearness.

"What if I want you to kiss me instead?" countered Doyle, but couldn't keep the smile out of his voice.

"Might miss and end up kissing your ear instead of your mouth," answered Bodie, waiting in anticipation.

"Nothing wrong with that." Doyle leaned forward and this time properly kissed Bodie, yet keeping his enthusiasm in check. He didn't want to cause Bodie any more discomfort by irritating the healing skin around his lovely, pouting lips.

Breaking apart, they both were breathing hard. "If you always kiss like that, you can kiss me anywhere you want," said Doyle.

"I'll hold you to that," said Bodie, feeling like the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders.

"I do have to ask you something, Bodie." Doyle couldn't shake the dark cloud that suddenly hovered over him with this thought.

"What?"

"You're not going to change your mind later, are you?"

"Change me mind?" Bodie wasn't sure what Doyle was insinuating.

"When the protective coverings come off and you can see, you're not going to change your mind about us, are you?" Doyle held his breath.

"Not a chance of that. Felt this way about you before all this, not about to stop, no matter how this ends up with my eyesight," answered Bodie. "Could ask the same about you, though."

"I'll always be here, can't run me off now," smiled Doyle. "'Specially since you declared your love for me and all."

"Declared my love?" teased Bodie. "Don't recall doing that."

"Come off, Bodie," said Doyle, lightly backhanding Bodie on the chest.

Laughing, Bodie slowly snaked an arm around Doyle's shoulders. "I love you, Sunshine. Now that is a declaration." Bodie lifted his chin and gestured in the air with his hand.

Doyle chuckled, as he guided Bodie back around the settee to sit down.

"Where are we going?" asked Bodie, following Doyle's lead.

"Was getting you back to the settee. Is there somewhere else you wanted to go?"

"Could you point me in the right direction for the loo? Could use a bit of washing up."

"Why don't I just sponge you down?" suggested Doyle. His breath caught at the thought of Bodie laid out before him.

"Had enough sponge baths while in hospital to last me for a while," countered Bodie. "I promise to be careful."

Doyle thought it over and switched directions, leading them toward the bathroom. "One bath coming up."

"Anything is better than having water dabbed here and there," sighed Bodie, relieved that Doyle wasn't going to argue with him on this.

Doyle lowered the lid to the toilet seat and guided Bodie to sit down.

"Think I can handle this on me own," said Bodie, feeling a blush colour his cheeks. He had expected to rely on Doyle not to run into things, but he hadn't expected to be completely at his partner's care.

"No matter what happens, we're together, right?" asked Doyle, starting the water in the tub.

"I would like to think so," answered Bodie, unsure where this was heading.

Doyle stood and turned once he had the temperature adjusted on the water. "I know you're feeling a distinct disadvantage here, but it'll be fine." He tugged at the bottom of Bodie's shirt, pulling upward to slip it over Bodie's head, mindful of the gauze wrapped around Bodie's head.

Bodie automatically lifted his arms aiding in the removal of his shirt.

"Stand up," instructed Doyle, as he knelt down and slipped his thumbs under the elastic band of Bodie's track bottoms.

"Doyle," said Bodie, stopping Doyle from shoving down his trousers. His ears thundered with the loud beating of his heart.

Doyle remained still, looking up and waiting.

Swallowing, Bodie slowly removed his hands, giving silent permission for Doyle to continue. He bit his lower lip as cool air caressed his groin as it was exposed.

Doyle inhaled loudly at the sight of Bodie, impressed at the size of his mate even while at rest. As he watched transfixed, Bodie's cock twitched and started to thicken.

"Gonna keep staring at me all night?" asked Bodie, shifting uncomfortably from one foot to another. He felt vulnerable and embarrassed at the same time.

"Would stare at you all the time if I could get away with it," murmured Doyle, setting about to finish removing Bodie's clothes. He noted the shiny pink flesh where the assortment of cuts had healed, alongside older scars that bore testament to how tough Bodie truly was to survive all that he had. A mottle of bruises still showed, but even they were fading.

Bodie stood still as Doyle rose to turn off the water. He resisted the urge to bring his hand in front of himself, knowing it was a bit late for such an act of modesty.

Doyle moved beside Bodie and carefully guided him toward the tub. "Step up and over the edge." Balancing Bodie with his hands on either side of his waist, he settled Bodie into the water.

"Feels good," sighed Bodie, resting back. The hot water soothed his muscles and eased some of the tension in his neck and back that had built up.

"Just relax and let me do all the work," said Doyle, soaping a flannel.

The gentle caresses of Doyle washing him had Bodie lulled and boneless. He was thoroughly clean except his groin area and he jerked upright when Doyle finally passed the wet cloth over his half-hard cock.

"Easy, mate," soothed Doyle, refusing to relinquish his hold on his prize.

"Let me..." started Bodie, reaching to stop Doyle and gripping the flannel.

"S' all right, I got it in hand," grinned Doyle, enjoying the feel of Bodie hardening under his ministrations. He let go of the cloth, using his hands to stroke Bodie toward complete hardness, while tending to the business of cleaning him.

Bodie hissed and arched, sending a wave of water over the edge of the tub. "Ray..."

"It's me, Bodie," Doyle leaned over the tub and whispered in Bodie's ear, as his hand continued to pump Bodie's erection. "Let go and enjoy it."

Bodie's breath quickened and his hips jerked in time to Doyle's pumping. His entire existence centred on the slick slide of Doyle's hands over his sensitive skin. Stiffening, he climaxed with a low growl deep in his throat.

"Beautiful," sighed Doyle, shifting to ease the pressure centred around his own aching cock and his protesting knees on the hard floor.

Collapsing back into the tub, Bodie gasped in air as his body recovered. "You didn't have to do that."

"Wanted to, didn't I?" Wanting to put Bodie at ease, he leaned back over and kissed him.

"Not fair...."

"There's no fair and unfair, Bodie," interrupted Doyle, fishing for the plug and pulling it. "Now let's see if we can't get your hair washed without getting your eyes wet. Be right back." He hurried from the bathroom, leaving Bodie sitting in the draining tub.

Bodie still felt like he had taken without giving anything in return. He was about to pull himself upright when Doyle returned.

"Where do you think you're going?" Doyle placed a hand on Bodie's shoulder, stopping him from getting up. "Got a pitcher to wash and rinse your hair." He turned the water back on and filled the pitcher.

Bodie reached out and felt Doyle's wet shirt, trailing his fingers downward and over his belt, he cupped the hard mound that strained into his palm.

Doyle dropped the plastic pitcher and it bounced on the bottom of the tub, barely missing Bodie and splashing water everywhere. His hips bucked forward, eager to increase the firm pressure. "Don't go doing that while I'm trying to pour the water, or you're going to end up with it all in your face." He couldn't stop the groan of disappointment that escaped as Bodie withdrew his hand.

Pleased to discover that Doyle was excited by his touch, Bodie tilted his head back. "Then I suggest you hurry up. Can't promise how long I can keep me hands off you." The flirting was ruined by a large yawn.

Doyle darted in for a quick kiss. "Keep your eyes closed, Bodie. I'm going to unwrap the gauze around your head, but I'll leave the pads over your eyes just in case." Throwing the old gauze away, Doyle refilled the pitcher and carefully poured the water over Bodie's short hair, using his other hand to prevent any of the water running down Bodie's face.

Bodie held still as Doyle made quick work of washing and rinsing his hair. Finished, Bodie stood and held the pads over his eyes while Doyle dried him off and then tucked the towel around his waist.

"Have a seat," said Doyle, resettling Bodie back on the closed toilet seat. He grabbed a second towel and gently towelled Bodie's hair, absorbing as much of the water as possible before tossing it over the edge of the tub. "Need to take care of your eyes now." He pulled out the sterile pads and ointment the doctor had given them, before easing the old pads off Bodie's eyes. Taking a quick look at the healing skin Doyle was relieved to see that the damage didn't appear as bad as it had at first. He placed the fresh pads over Bodie's eyes and started to wrap the gauze around his head to hold them in place.

"How is it looking?" Bodie finally asked, shrugging into his dressing gown that Doyle held for him. A wave of tiredness descended on him and he yawned.

"It looks good. But I think you need to get some sleep," said Doyle.

"Been asleep all day," argued Bodie, but another yawn mangled his objection. Between the soothing bath and sexual release, Bodie felt he could easily drift off to sleep if given half the chance

"Because you needed it," said Doyle. He guided Bodie out of the bathroom and into the bedroom and eased him down on the bed then turned to leave.

"Ray?"

"Yeah?" Doyle turned back to face Bodie.

"I thought maybe you'd sleep in here with me tonight. I mean, it would save having to try and wake you up by yelling should I need to get up during the night."

"Was plannin' on sleeping with you," said Doyle, moving back toward Bodie. "But since you're all nice and clean, I thought I'd grab a quick wash up before turning in."

"Oh," said Bodie, relieved. He shrugged off his dressing gown and wiggled under the covers. "Don't take too long, don't know what mischief I'll get into without you around." He curled on his side, unable to suppress the yawn that caught him unaware.

Doyle hurried into the bathroom, quickly washing, not waiting for the tub to fill. He decided not to wash his hair since there wouldn't be time for it to dry without making the pillow damp, besides he was eager to return to Bodie. He only half dried off before leaving the bathroom, his skin still slightly damp. He checked the front door and made sure the alarm was set, before turning off the lights. He walked into the bedroom and found Bodie curled up and lightly snoring.

Trying not to disturb him, Doyle slipped under the covers and carefully scooted behind him. "Never did say it, did I?" he whispered, leaning close to Bodie's ear. "Love you, Bodie. Sleep well, I'll be watchin' over you."

Bodie snuffled and reached back, patting Doyle on the hip. "Me own personal Guardian Angel." His voice was barely above a whisper and heavily sleep laden.

Doyle listened as Bodie's breathing slowed, indicating his partner had succumbed to sleep. He found sleep fleeting for himself as the excitement of discovering Bodie held mutual feelings for him had him imagining what the future would bring.

---

The sound of rain pelting the window woke Bodie. He shifted and discovered he wasn't alone in his bed. The events of last night came flooding back and he grinned. He rolled over, mindful not to disturb Doyle and tentatively reached out. Lightly, he ran his fingers up Doyle's arm to his shoulder.

Doyle came abruptly awake at the first feather light touch, his green eyes sharp as he looked at Bodie's face. He noted the pursed lips and wrinkled forehead as his partner focused on his sense of touch.

Taking his time, Bodie traced the ridge of collarbone before moving down to the soft hair, discovering the softer texture of a small tit. He rolled the small peak between his thumb and forefinger, feeling it harden.

Doyle couldn't stop the shiver than travelled through him as Bodie's hand skated down his chest and teased his nipple among his chest hair.

The tremor from his questing fingers registered and Bodie stilled. "You awake?"

"Mmhmm," hummed Doyle. "Don't let me distract you. Carry on."

Bodie snorted and he pinched the firm nub.

"Ow!" Doyle grabbed Bodie's hand. "Careful, 'm very sensitive."

"How could I forget?" smiled Bodie. "You're a delicate flower, aren't you petal?" He lowered his head as he spoke and followed Doyle's jaw to his mouth with his lips.

"I'll show you delicate!" Doyle quickly pushed Bodie onto his back, squirming until he straddled him. Bodie's sudden tensing and muffled grunt had him immediately lifting his weight off of him. "Shit! I'm sorry, didn't mean to hurt you." He grimaced in sympathy at the myriad of bruises and freshly healed cuts.

"'S'okay," said Bodie, bringing up his hands to stop Doyle from shifting off him.

"Can't believe I forgot you were still injured," said Doyle, berating himself. "You'd think I would have had better sense than this. Shouldn't have gotten caught up in my feelings to the point I lost sensibility to your situation."

"That's good, though," grinned Bodie.

"What do you mean by that?" demanded Doyle, still feeling bad for causing Bodie pain.

"It means that your feelings for me aren't based on me being hurt," explained Bodie.

"Of course they're not!" Doyle snapped. "Why would you even think that?"

Bodie shrugged, unwilling to voice his own insecurities.

"Thought we had cleared that up last night," said Doyle, shifting to lie beside Bodie. "Whether you can see or not will not change the way I feel about you."

"Guess I just needed to hear it again," sighed Bodie. A small part in the back of his mind still carried the seed of doubt, despite Doyle's insistence to the contrary.

"Listen to me," said Doyle, lightly tracing his fingers over Bodie's chest. "I've felt this way before you got hurt and I will feel this way after you're better. Nothing is going to change that. So what's wrong?"

"It's just the unknown," whispered Bodie, hating to reveal his insecurity, but unable to hide anything from Doyle. "Have to admit, I'm scared."

"I know. I would be too, if it was me in your place," said Doyle, cuddling against Bodie. "But you're not alone. Stuck with me now."

"Can't think of anyone else I'd rather be stuck with," smiled Bodie, relaxing as Doyle rested his head on his shoulder. He hugged him close, relishing the nearness. His lower region had lost interest rather quickly when Doyle had inadvertently aggravated his tender bruises.

"Maybe we shouldn't pursue things until you're better," suggested Doyle. "Don't want to be the one to explain to the Cow how come you ended back at hospital when you were supposed to be resting and healing."

Bodie sighed, unable to argue when the situation had the possibility of the Cow being involved.

"Just remember one thing," said Doyle, placing a tender kiss on Bodie's chest before settling down once again.

"What's that?" asked Bodie.

"I love you."

"Love you, too."

---

At the end of the week, both Bodie and Doyle were antsy.

Other than the impromptu hand job that first night, neither had pushed to continue exploring until the verdict on Bodie's condition had been settled and the remaining bruises and cuts were well on the way to mending.

Doyle steered the car through the morning traffic as they headed back to the hospital.

"What if I can't see?" asked Bodie, breaking the heavy silence that hung in the air.

"Then we'll deal with it," answered Doyle. Since that first morning, Bodie hadn't wanted to speculate on his eyesight and Doyle hadn't wanted to push the issue by discussing it and ticking off Bodie.

"Won't be on the squad anymore and I don't trust anyone enough to watch your back while you're out in the field," admitted Bodie. He knew they should be getting close to their destination and had started to feel the insecurities and fears that he had been holding at bay.

"If it works out that way, then I'll do something else. Don't have to go into the field," said Doyle. He had been thinking about the possibility and had called Cowley a couple of days earlier to inquire about changing his status with CI5 should Bodie proved to be unable to return. Needless to say, Cowley wasn't pleased, but he knew Doyle wouldn't hesitate to resign completely if another avenue wasn't available.

"Can't picture you as a paper shuffler," said Bodie.

"Won't be," said Doyle. "At least, not anymore than I already do as it is. It would just a different kind of paperwork."

"Like what?" Bodie's curiosity took place of the nervousness that had started to settle around him.

"If you're not able to be my partner, I'll be working with new recruits," answered Doyle, turning into the parking lot of the hospital.

Bodie nodded. "You're vicious enough to weed out anyone not fit to be in CI5."

"That's what the Cow said," laughed Doyle.

---

The overhead lights were turned off and a small lamp turned on, filling the room with a soft, muted glow. Bodie held his breath as the gauze came off and the padded cotton was lifted from his eyes.

"Now open your eyes slowly," instructed the doctor. "Let them get used to the light."

Bodie bit his lower lip, hesitating to open his eyes.

"Let's see those pretty blue eyes," encouraged Doyle, hovering over the doctor's shoulder.

Swallowing, Bodie peeked out from beneath long lashes and his breath caught.

"What?" asked Doyle, his heart hammering with worry that Bodie hadn't beaten the odds after all and couldn't see.

"Beautiful," whispered Bodie, gazing directly at Doyle. The rest of the room was out of focus, but he didn't care.

Emerald green eyes met indigo blue as Doyle broke into a wide grin, which was matched by Bodie.

"Your vision might be blurry for a little while until your eyes relearn to focus," advised the doctor, leaning closer and checking Bodie's eyes. "The skin around them seems to be healing fine."

"Well that's a relief," sighed Cowley, who had remained standing in the background. "How long before he's fit to return to active duty?"

The doctor turned his attention away from his patient and stood up to face the Scotsman. "I will want to see him in a week to judge how well his vision has cleared before I'd be willing to release him."

"A week?" Cowley didn't sound pleased and glared at Bodie as though he was behind the conspiracy to take more time off.

Bodie and Doyle couldn't contain the stifled chuckles at their boss's stern look. They knew it was all show and that the old man was just as relieved as they were.

"Very well," conceded Cowley, placing his hat on his head. "One week. Then I expect you to be back at work."

"Uh, Sir?" Doyle ventured. "Is that one week for Bodie, or for us both?"

Cowley glared at his two agents for a long moment. "Might as well be the both of you. You won't be any good to me until then."

"Thank you, Sir," grinned Doyle, looking at Bodie.

"Just don't be makin' a habit of it," snapped Cowley. "Just because one of you comes down with a cold, doesn't mean the other will get off sick time as well."

"Yes, Sir," said Bodie, grinning like a fool. He could see! Although Doyle was still slightly out of focus, he couldn't think of a more beautiful sight than his partner.

Cowley huffed and straightened his overcoat as he strode toward the door. He paused and looked back at Bodie. "I'm glad you're okay, lad."

"Thank you, Sir," grinned Bodie.

---

Doyle drove them back to Bodie's flat. The prospect of a week without being on call had them both grinning ear to ear. He tried to split his attention between the road and Bodie, who hadn't taken his eyes off him since the doctor's office.

"You okay?" asked Doyle, as he pulled up in front of his flat.

Bodie nodded and climbed out of the car. The relief of having his eyesight back was slowly being replaced with doubts. They had both said it wouldn't make a difference between them one way or the other if he regained his sight, but now that the moment of truth had arrived, he couldn't help feeling perhaps Doyle would feel differently after all.

Doyle led the way inside picking up on Bodie's sudden shift of emotions. "Can I get you anything?" He remained near the door, uncertain what was going on in Bodie's head.

"I'm fine," answered Bodie, moving around the room restlessly. Before he couldn't take his eyes off his partner, now he found it difficult to look at him.

Strengthening his resolve, Doyle walked up behind Bodie who was gazing out the window. He wrapped his arms around Bodie's waist and rested his head on his back. "Changing your mind?" If Bodie chose not to pursue this avenue of their relationship, he didn't know if he could just pretend it never happened and continue on as before.

Bodie jumped at the question, turning abruptly around and jarring loose Doyle's hold on him. "Not me, mate. But I thought you might -"

"What?" cut in Doyle, taking a step back. "That now that you can see and don't need me, I would just turn my back on us and walk away?"

Bodie shrugged and grimaced. Having Doyle say it out loud sounded harsh, even if it was true.

Doyle snorted and widened his stance, his hands resting on his hips. "You know, you may be able to see with your eyes, but you're still blind."

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Bodie, holding his breath against the flicker of hope in his heart.

"You can't see what is directly in front of you," said Doyle. "I love you, Bodie. That won't change for anything, nor am I going anywhere. And if you're unable to see that, then you've must have rattled what little brains you have in that thick skull of yours when you hit the ground."

Bodie looked at him with a big, goofy grin. As a declaration of love, it wasn't wine and roses, but it was pure Doyle.

"What the hell are you grinning at?" snapped Doyle.

"You," smiled Bodie.

Doyle snorted and glared back at Bodie.

Moving forward, Bodie closed the small distance between them. "Love you, too. Was afraid the fates would take you away from me in exchange for my sight."

Doyle shook his head clearly not understanding what Bodie was going on about. "Not plannin' on going anywhere."

"So you've said." Bodie traced the side of Doyle's face with his finger, then leaned forward and lightly brushed their lips together.

It took a moment before Doyle finally relaxed into Bodie's embrace, his anger slowly ebbing away under Bodie's kiss.

Reluctantly, Bodie released his tight hold and stepped back. "Think we might pick up where we left off?"

It was Doyle's turn to grin as he turned to head for the bedroom. Bodie followed close behind watching the sway of slender hips.

Stopping near the bed, Doyle yanked his shirt off over his head, too eager to take the time to tease by slowing undressing each other. He had his belt undone before he noticed Bodie hadn't made any move to remove his clothes and was instead leaning in the doorway, watching him. "What is it?"

"Didn't want to miss seeing all of you for the first time," grinned Bodie, his blue eyes twinkling. "You've already seen me, just wanted to even the playing ground."

Doyle opened his mouth to snap out a comment, then stopped. "Let's even things up a bit, then." He dropped his hands away from his jeans and arched an eyebrow in invitation.

Smiling, Bodie pushed off the doorframe and moved in front of Doyle. He cupped Doyle's face and kissed him before lowering himself to his knees. He traced the edge of the denim that hugged Doyle's hips, enjoying the tiny tremors that jumped beneath his light touch. Carefully, he undid the fastening and slowly lowered the zipper, building the anticipation of revealing his first up close and personal look at his friend.

Doyle swallowed, feeling the heat radiate from his cheeks. This must have been how Bodie felt when he had done the same to him.

"Beautiful," murmured Bodie, parting the material and tugging down on both jeans and y-fronts until his prize sprung free. He ducked his head and placed a kiss on the tip of Doyle's cock.

Doyle gasped as his hips jerked forward. "Don't recall doing that to you," he managed to croak as Bodie continued to kiss down the length of his cock.

"Ah, but you wanted to," chuckled Bodie, flicking his tongue back up the entire length.

"Oh, yeah," breathed Doyle, his knees becoming weak.

Bodie turned him and guided him down to sit on the bed. He grabbed the cuffs of Doyle's jeans and pulled, removing them completely along with underclothes and socks. Tossing them on the floor, he rose and pushed Doyle flat on the bed, blanketing him with his body. He nuzzled Doyle's slender neck, nipping lightly.

"Not fair," said Doyle, arching against Bodie's solid form, his arms and legs automatically locking around Bodie to hold him close.

Bodie lifted his head and looked down at him.

"You're still dressed," said Doyle.

"Then you'll have to let go a minute," said Bodie, trying to shift upright.

"Don't want to ever let you go," countered Doyle, still holding Bodie tight.

Without saying anything more, Bodie captured Doyle's mouth. He darted his tongue inside the moist cavern, duelling with Doyle's. He kissed his way down Doyle's neck toward his chest, paying homage to the twin peaks that greeted him among the silky chest hair.

Doyle moved his hands upward to cup Bodie's head, groaning with pleasure as Bodie nipped sharply at one hardening tit then the other.

Taking the opportunity, Bodie quickly unbuttoned his own shirt and slipped it off. But Doyle's legs still had him in a vice-like grip around his waist. Shimmying further downward, he kissed and sucked the firm stomach, flicking his tongue into the tiny well of Doyle's belly button. He shifted his lower body off the edge of the bed as he moved further south.

"Bodie..." gasped Doyle, unlocking his ankles and widening his legs as Bodie's warm breath tickled his cock.

Bypassing the weeping cock that twitched in invitation, Bodie nuzzled the heavy ovals, gently taking one into his mouth and lightly sucking before moving to the next. He yanked off his corduroys and kicked free of their confinement, turning his entire attention on Doyle. He moved back up the length of Doyle's body, once again lowering his weight onto his lover.

Doyle started to protest when Bodie abandoned his attention to his neglected cock, but the words died quickly when he felt heated skin press down on him. "How'd you do that?"

"Magic," whispered Bodie, running his hands down Doyle's sides until he held the slender hips firmly. He pressed his hips downward, sliding their cocks together.

Doyle didn't care how Bodie managed to make his clothes disappear, he entire being centred on the delicious friction as he met Bodie's thrusts with his own.

Bodie raised his upper body, increasing the strength and speed of his hips. He wanted to see Doyle's face when he came, to know that he was the reason for sending Doyle over the edge.

Green eyes flashed open at the loss of Bodie's weight blanketing him. He gripped Bodie's upper arms tightly, fighting against the urge to shut his eyes as the familiar surge of pleasure radiated out from his belly.

"Let go, luv," gasped Bodie, as he started to lose himself to his own pleasure.

"Bodie!" choked Doyle, arching and grinding his groin upward against his lover. Every muscle and tendon strained as he came, shuddering as Bodie continued to undulate against him, his mouth open in a silent scream.

The sight of Doyle lost in his orgasm set him off. Bodie grunted and his hips jerked three times in erratic thrusts before surrendering to his own climax. Unable to hold himself up any longer, he collapsed on top of Doyle, hugging him close.

The room was silent except for the harsh breathing from the two men tangled together on the bed. Raising his head, Bodie gazed down on his lover, memorising the feather sweep of lashes and soft lips. He grinned when emerald eyes peered up at him. "Thanks."

"For what?" asked Doyle, running his hands lightly up and down Bodie's back.

"For helping me see," said Bodie, capturing Doyle's lips with his own.

"We've both been blind," said Doyle, rolling with Bodie to lie on their sides. "Couldn't see what was right in front of us all this time, could we?"

Bodie chuckled and hugged Doyle close before tugging the corner of the sheet up and wiping them both clean. "Think anyone else noticed?"

"There's one person who most likely saw how we felt from the beginning," mused Doyle. He arched an eyebrow and studied Bodie.

"Cowley!" They both answered in unison.

"Wouldn't be surprised," grinned Bodie, shaking his head. "Explains quite a bit doesn't it? Letting you take the time off to mind me then the time until I'm released back to duty. He could have teamed you up with Murphy while I was out of commission."

Doyle sighed heavily as he curled against Bodie's side. "Figure we need to speak to the old man when we go back to work?"

"Nah," said Bodie. "He'll take one look at us and know what's happened between us."

"Wonderful," mumbled Doyle, trying to imagine confronting Cowley on the new level of their partnership.

"It'll be fine," assured Bodie. "He won't care one way or the other as long as we continue doing the job."

"I'll let you handle him then," said Doyle, shifting slightly to settle down for a kip. "You always been his blue eyed boy."

"Ah, but I have eyes only for you," teased Bodie, unable to suppress the large grin. He couldn't remember feeling happier than at this moment.

Doyle lightly pinched Bodie's side, causing him to jump. "Such a sweet talker, no wonder I can't resist you. Not that I would ever want to." He skated a hand down Bodie's stomach, lightly cupping the lax cock.

"Comfy?" asked Bodie, lifting his head to get a better look at Doyle.

"Mmhmm." Doyle closed his eyes and relaxed toward sleep. "This way I won't have to worry about waking up alone. Face it, luv. I've got you by the short and curlies and I don't plan on ever letting go."

Laughing, Bodie covered them both with the heavy bedding. He would never admit to the absurd security Doyle's gesture and words had on him.

---

Bodie and Doyle knocked on the closed door, walking inside when the order to enter was shouted from the other side.

Cowley looked up from the stack of papers before him. He straightened in his chair, removed his glasses and studied his two best agents. "I see the two of you have finally stopped dancing around each other and it's about time. Maybe now the two of you can concentrate on the job at hand, instead of trying to figure out whether one fancies the other. For two trained observers, you both had me seriously doubting your abilities to deduct what was clearly in front of you."

"Yes, Sir," said Bodie, with Doyle echoing him.

Cowley gave one short nod, then turned to the business at hand. "I have a job for you two."

Bodie glanced sideways at Doyle and wiggled his eyebrows and was rewarded with Doyle quickly pursing his lips in a kiss.

Cowley didn't miss the little by play between his two men. He had spent many nights wondering if love would always be blind between them, and now he had his confirmation that they had finally opened their eyes. Pleased that he had been right about them, he filed away the knowledge and focused on the job at hand.

-- THE END --

Originally published in Secret Agent Men 3, Devious Developments Press, 2004