CARBO FAN FICTION-Déjà Vu CHAPTER 5

To Bo and Roman’s surprise; Clarice insisted on starting work on solving the case. ‘Come on... you just got here.’ Roman protested.

‘I’ve nothing else to do right now; technically I’m on leave. Besides, the sooner we catch this guy; the quicker your family can breathe easy.’ Clarice said briskly. Turning to Caroline, she smiled. ‘Thanks for the hospitality, Mrs. Brady. I haven’t  eaten this much in weeks.’

‘The pleasure’s all mine... Clarice.’ Caroline smiled back but inwardly distressed. So was Sami, and  Brady who now recognised Clarice as the woman he’d seen with his mother in an old photo; Bo had taken him aside to explain after he voiced his observation.

‘Please come again, you’ re always welcome here, alright?’

‘I’ll bear that in mind. And it was nice meeting you all.’ She nodded at Hope and gathered Ciara in her arms.

‘I drew a picture for you but I forgot it at home.’ Ciara said apologetically.

‘Oh that’s alright love... I’ll stop by later for it, promise.’ Clarice kissed her again, stroking her hair. Hope couldn't help but smile at the way Ciara had taken to her so soon.  Bo on the other hand was struggling to quell the feeling of tenderness within him as he watched Ciara touch Clarice’s face, grinning at her. Again, it was like seeing her with Shawn Douglas. When they were a family and so happy on the boat... Carly tending to both of them and spreading love...

Focus Bo! His head sternly reminded him. That was a long time ago!

Clarice met his eyes for a second as though aware of his thoughts but then turned away, going red again. It was a long time since he saw a woman blush and it was oddly touching.  Forcing his eyes away from her, he turned to Hope instead. ‘Are you coming back to the station with us or heading home?’

‘I’m going over to see Justin, to make the necessary arrangements then I’m heading over to Uncle Mickey’s.’

Clarice saw the way Bo’s face tightened but he said nothing; instead he stroked Ciara’s hair. ‘See you later, little one. Clarice, Ro... Let’s go.’

Abe was at his desk when they arrived back at the station; talking to Dean. He rose on seeing Clarice with Bo and Roman.

‘Abe... Clarice here is going to help wrap up this case. Hello Dean.’

‘Sir.’ Dean inclined his head respectfully before looking at Clarice in a way Bo didn't like at all, like he was mentally stripping her naked.

‘She is?’ Abe asked, astonished. Bo and Roman realised they’d neglected to tell Abe about Carly’s new line of work and the problem they needed to solve.

‘Dean, will you excuse us please?’

‘Sure sir.’ Giving Clarice another glance Dean left, closing the door behind him.

‘Will you mind telling me what this is about?’

‘I can explain Mayor Carver...’

‘Abe.’

‘Alright, Abe. I offered to help Salem P.D with the case; I know ISA don't normally handle this sort but since I’ve nothing to do in the meantime...’ she spread her hands. ‘If you don't mind, that is.’

Bo and Roman saw the look of sheer amazement on Abe’s face and pitied him; they were still trying to accept this new Carly. Roman cleared his throat. ‘Clarice wants to profile the third kidnapper, give us an idea who he could be and there’s a very strong possibility he’s no stranger to us.’

‘Are you serious? What made you arrive at that conclusion?’

‘Ciara told me they blocked her ears with music, obviously this third person didn't want Ciara to recognise his voice. And since he’s still out there, we have to move fast before he tries to abduct Ciara again right under our noses.’ She turned to Bo. ‘Can I see the case file, please?’

‘It’s on my desk. Go on.’

‘Excuse me.’

Clarice saw Dean at the water dispenser, lighting a cigarette. He nodded at her, smiling.

‘Officer Dean Hartman, at your service. Are you a transfer, Ms...?’

‘Clarice Parker and more like a temporary consultant. You’re the officer who found the hideout. Aren’t you supposed to be resting today?’ she asked, shaking his proffered hand.

‘Oh, I got sort of antsy lying in that lonely apartment. And...’ he looked pensive, ‘I felt so guilty at how I messed things up, I could’ve have gotten Ciara killed...’

‘Now, now...’ Clarice said briskly, ‘She’s safe and I’m sure Bo doesn't blame you so cheer up. Still, you need to rest that arm of yours.’

‘It’s really nothing.’ He rubbed it gingerly. ‘If there’s anything I can do to help you, let me know.’

‘I appreciate that, thanks.’ No thanks... she thought. What he did was reprehensible; it was just divine intervention that led Ciara to her in the first place otherwise things could have ended tragically last night. ‘See you later.’ She made her way to Bo’s office.

Dean crushed the lit cigarette, his smile fading. Damn it! They’ve brought in an ISA agent and the bitch’s already figured out why Ciara’s ears had been blocked. He had to get the money and skip town before they caught up on him. He already hated Clarice Parker as much as he hated Hope Brady; she must have slept her way up to the position she now held at the ISA- obviously depriving some poor bastard of it.

But she’s a lot prettier though... He thought with some regret. If he wasn't so anxious to leave town he might have asked her out, give his colleagues and the stuck up Commissioner something to think about.

::::::::::::::::::::

Abe listened to Bo’s narrative in silence. ‘You’ve got to be kidding me.’

‘Join the club of disbelief.’ Roman said drily.

‘We’re still waiting for Shane to give us answers, and I for one can’t wait to hear them.’ Bo said.

‘How do you propose to help her get her memory back? Have her see a psychiatrist?’

‘Let’s first find out what caused her to lose it before we come up with a solution. In the meantime, we need a reason to keep her in Salem for a while.’

‘Does Hope know about this?’

‘No, not yet at least.’

‘It’s going to be a sticky situation Bo, you never told Hope about Carly; she’s not going to be thrilled about this.’

‘Carly has no memory of me or anyone here, not even Salem itself. You want me to just let her go and allow her live a lie for the rest of her life? Lord knows what Lawrence did to her to make her this way in the first place!’ Bo said angrily. ‘And I’m more than capable of handling my wife; even she can’t think an amnesiac will be a threat to our marriage.’

‘Calm down Bo... I wasn't trying to insinuate anything and if I did, I apologise. Of course Carly needs to get her real life back and I too would like to know what Shane has to say. So... she can’t remember anything? Nothing at all?’

‘Nothing, zilch.’ Roman replied. ‘And Frankie’s away so we can’t ask him what happened.’

Abe frowned, trying to think of possible answers. ‘Lawrence Alamain’s hardly low- profile; if Carly was involved in a terrible accident that caused her amnesia, it would’ve been reported in the news a long time ago or Frankie would’ve told you about it. I just don't understand all this.’

Abe’s words made Bo’s suspicion about Lawrence being the cause mount several notches higher.

‘In the meantime,’ Abe went on, ‘Carly can help with the case if she wants to and if there’s anything I can do to help to jog her memory; just let me know.’

‘Thanks, Abe.’ Bo said gratefully. ‘But for now, she’s Clarice, not Carly.’ As he spoke, Officer Davidson poked her head at the door.

‘Sorry to intrude sir; but you have a video call.’

The three men hurried to Bo’s office immediately.

Meanwhile, Clarice was going through the case file thoroughly at Hope’s desk. Kyle Hobbes had been convicted of sex offences but outside Salem, Bo and Hope never arrested him for any crime otherwise she would have ruled his motive for kidnapping Ciara to be revenge. The woman found burnt to a crisp with him had been his sister, Brenda and she had been a local; working as a waitress in a bar in the lower part of Salem. Hmmm... I can start from there, she thought, getting up.

‘Excuse me, where’s Commissioner Brady?’ she asked a passing uniformed officer on her way out.

‘He’s in his office with Commander Brady; but I think they’re in the middle of something important.’

‘Oh.’

‘Is there anything I can do for you, Ms. Parker?’

‘I need a car, preferably unmarked; the Commissioner gave me authority to continue with this kidnapping case. I’m heading over the other side of town.’

‘No problem ma’am, I’m sure we can get you one and if you want like one of our officers to go with you...’

‘That won’t be necessary, but thanks.’

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Bo, Roman and Abe were clustered round Bo’s computer; listening closely to Shane’s report.

‘It took a long time tracing Carly’s life before she joined the NYPD but I finally found it, through some old newspaper and police reports. Some fishermen found her washed up on the beach in some town in Italy, severely beaten and almost dead; she was in a coma for weeks. All she had with her was a key, a credit card and two passports tucked in her stocking. The police found a piece of paper in one of the passports- name and address of a Mr Emil Standish.’

‘Who was he?’ asked Bo, already shaking with rage at the mental image of Carly lying critically injured and helpless in some hospital.

‘A lawyer. The police tracked him down in New York; apparently he’s an old friend of her father’s. I called him and he told me the whole story. Carly contacted him three months after she and Lawrence left Salem- Lawrence had been abusing her and she’d tried to escape him several times. She decided it was too dangerous to go back to Salem because he’d threatened to kill you and Shawn Douglas if she dared. So her other option was to go to New York and live under a new identity.’

‘Clarice Parker.’ Roman guessed.

‘That’s right, and a new identity for Nicky too; she wasn't about to leave him behind. Emil was to arrange for the necessary papers and passports for both of them and transfer her share of the money left to her and Frankie under the name Clarice Parker to various banks in the States. He registered her new name and sent her the passports and a safety deposit key.’

‘What was in the safety deposit box?’ asked Abe.

‘Most of the paperwork she needed, plus the ones she needed to access her accounts- and a key to an apartment he’d leased on her behalf; everything to start her new life. They’d arranged to meet her and Nicky at the airport but when she didn't show, he guessed something went wrong.’

‘Lawrence somehow found out what she was planning... probably caught her trying to leave with Nicky and... And attacked her.’ Bo said in a tight voice.

‘Attacked is right Bo; broken bones and a severe head injury, the doctors weren’t sure she would ever come out of the coma. Emil stayed with her the whole time and when she woke up she couldn't tell anyone who she was or what has happened to her, the doctors diagnosed severe retrograde amnesia.  Emil had her go through therapy but it didn't work; the psychiatrists drove her too hard and she kept having nightmares. So Emil cancelled the therapy, told her she’d survived a terrible accident instead. Before you ask, he didn't tell her about Nicky because he was afraid she would try and get him back and end up dead for good. After she recovered, Emil took her to New York with him. A year after, she joined the NYPD, was there for five years before applying to the FBI. The rest you know.’

‘Oh my God...’ Bo whispered. Carly beaten up and left for dead... why, why did he let her go? He should’ve tried harder, convinced her to stay and mend their relationship; instead he had given her up to that monster who wasn't fit to be around decent women!

‘Thanks a lot Shane, you have no idea how we appreciate this.’ he said at last.

‘No problem. What are you going to do about her now? I asked around and she’s been a valuable asset to the agency.’

‘Maybe but she needs to remember who she is and get her life back, her real life. Is there anything else you haven’t told us?’

‘Umm, yes- Emil contacted Frankie after he brought her to New York but explained it was best he didn't have contact with her in case Lawrence found out she was still alive. Frankie wasn't happy about it but he went along with it and had Emil keep an eye on her the whole time... let him know she was okay and everything.’

‘But why didn't he ever tell me about this?’ Bo cried, furiously. ‘The last time he was here, he didn't say a word... how could he keep it to himself? I had the right to know what happened to Carly!’

Shane looked uncomfortable. ‘Well, the thing is... according to Emil; Frankie blames you for what happened to Carly. He felt if you hadn’t let Lawrence take her away, she wouldn’t have suffered all that time or be in her present situation... he was very bitter about it...’

‘That’s ridiculous!’ Abe exclaimed incredulously. ‘How can Frankie think that about Bo?’

Bo pressed his hand against his face.  Frankie was within his rights to blame him because it was true... he had let her go, without much of a struggle... without making an effort!

‘Frankie can’t mean it, Bo didn't want to let her go but Lawrence confused her.’ Roman protested.

‘Just stop, Roman.’ Bo’s voice was quiet. ‘We can argue about this till we’re blue in the face. The only thing now is help Clarice become Carly again, I owe her that much.’ His face was emotional but resolute. ‘And I know just how to keep her here for a long time.’

:::::::::

‘Can I help you, ma’am?’ the young bartender behind the counter asked, eyeing Clarice appreciatively. Clarice held up her still valid FBI badge which served as her official cover identity and his smile faded somewhat.

‘I’m Special Agent Clarice Parker, FBI. I’m investigating one the waitresses who used to work here, Brenda Hobbes.’

‘This morning paper said she was killed in a fire.’ The young man said warily.

‘Yes. Brenda was involved in the kidnapping of a little girl and we’re still looking into it. When she was here, did she have anyone come round her to visit her?’

‘Alan, that’s the owner of this place, doesn’t like the waitresses having visitors; they won’t get on with their work, see. But there was a guy who started coming round here some months ago, would chat with her right here on the sly.’

‘You ever caught his name?’

‘Kyle. She told me he was her brother when I teased her about playing the field.’

‘Playing the field?’

‘Yeah... she already had a boyfriend... I saw him once when I dropped by her place to return her mp3 player.’

‘Do you remember how he looked like... or his name?

‘No...’ he shook his head apologetically. ‘I didn't get a good look at him; I gave her the player at the door.’

Disappointed, Clarice nodded. ‘Thanks for your time.’

‘I’m sorry I couldn't help you more, ma’am. Would you like a drink on the house?’

Clarice smiled, shaking her head. ‘Not on duty but thank you.’

She turned to go but then the bartender stopped her. ‘Hang on, Agent Parker. I just remembered... the guy was a cop.’

‘A cop?’ Clarice asked in surprise. ‘Are you sure?’

‘He was in uniform, yeah. He lifted his arm to light a cigarette and I saw Salem PD’s crest up his sleeve. His Zippo lighter wouldn’t go on; he kept opening and shutting it... I couldn't stand that damned noise.’

‘Thanks again.’                                                                                      

Brenda involved with a police officer...  It proved her theory; the third captor was someone Ciara had seen before... one of Bo’s men. What will he, Roman and Hope say about this? How will they even begin to fish the culprit out?

As she walked to the car, she went over what Ciara had told her... she’d heard nothing but a clicking sound the whole time. Hang on...

He lifted his arm to light a cigarette and I saw Salem PD’s crest up his sleeve. His Zippo lighter wouldn’t go on; he kept opening and shutting it... I couldn't stand that damned noise...

A lighter? What that what Ciara heard? Clarice got into the car, thinking hard, going over it all. A weird clicking sound...

She stopped cold, gripping the steering wheel.

She’d found him outside Abe’s door, lighting a cigarette, not with a match but a lighter, and opening and shutting it rapidly; click, click, click....

He went to the kidnapper’s hideout without telling Bo... because he had wanted to get there before his accomplices could finger him... he killed them and set the place on fire after realising Ciara had escaped. 

‘Dean Hartman!’ she exclaimed, her head spinning in shock. He was the third kidnapper!

CARBO FAN FICTION-Déjà Vu CHAPTER 4

 ‘Sorry it’s not the best brand.’ Roman chuckled as Clarice made a face after taking a sip of the coffee he’d gotten from the station’s coffee machine.

‘Don't worry about it; I’ve tasted worse.’ Clarice grinned ruefully. It was hard for Roman to think of her as Clarice in the meantime; again he wished he knew the reason behind her amnesia. And like Bo, he couldn't help but notice; she really looked more beautiful than before.

Clarice looked at Roman carefully, thinking how good looks ran in the family; Roman was as handsome as his brother. And funny and witty; comfortable to be around with unlike Bo who set her heart fluttering anytime he was near.

‘You should try the coffee served at our family Pub; best one in Salem though The Java tries to prove otherwise.’

‘Your family owns a Pub?’

Roman nodded, inwardly wanting to scream in despair. When she was Carly she had helped with the renovation.

‘It used to be a Fish Market, then my parents decided to change it to what it is today. You should stop by and see it for yourself.’

Clarice nodded then frowned. ‘Is Victor Kiriakis your stepfather then?’

Roman shuddered at the very idea. ‘Lord, no. He’s Bo’s biological father that’s all. My father Shawn was the one who really raised Bo. We lost him a few years ago.’

‘I’m sorry.’ Clarice murmured sympathetically. ‘Bo must miss him as much as you do.’

‘Yeah they were very close.’ Roman thought of Shawn with a small wave of sadness.

Clarice put down her cup. ‘I don't mean to pry, but what’s going on with Bo and Hope? I got the feeling she’s angry with him about something.’

‘Oh that...’ Roman waved his hand dismissively, ‘just a misunderstanding; the usual stuff between married couples. They’re probably settling things as we speak.

‘And you? What’s your story?’

‘Divorced 16 years; five kids and four grandchildren.’ Seizing the opportunity, he leaned forward, watching her intently. ‘And your story, Clarice?’

‘I have no family; only my work. When I’m not chasing criminals and secrets around the world, I’m at my small lake house in Connecticut; fishing or tending to my garden.  I have an apartment in New York but I try to get away from the city whenever I can.’

‘You’re so lucky!’ Roman sighed enviously. ‘I don't remember the last time I went fishing.’ Not wanting to digress from the subject, he probed further. ‘You said you were in the FBI, before that... with the NYPD. So... you grew up in New York?’

Before Clarice could reply, Bo appeared at the doorway, looking shaken. Roman guessed rightly that he and Hope have been at each other’s throats again.

‘Bo...’ Clarice got up, walking to him. ‘Are you alright?’

How could he be alright... when his wife persisted at being hostile to him. Bo felt like pounding his fist against the wall, break something.

‘Bo?’ Clarice took his arm. ‘What is it?’

Oh God, Carly... please don't touch me, he thought as he looked down at her beautiful eyes which were filled with genuine concern. Sixteen long years apart and she was affecting him in a way he wasn't at all comfortable with. He cared enough about her to want to help her get back her memory but it didn't mean he was interested in going back to their past. He was very much in love with Hope; he and Carly were the past.

With that in mind, he smiled faintly; gently removing his arm from her touch. ‘I’m fine. Hope and I just got in a little disagreement, that’s all. Nothing to worry about.’

‘Okay... if you say so.’ Clarice replied, although she didn't believe him. She didn't like the way he looked upset and she felt oddly protective of him. Why am I so aware of him? She wondered.

She glanced at her watch. ‘I have to report to Headquarters now. So, I’ll see you later at your mother’s house?’

‘Yeah, here’s the address.’ Roman wrote it down on a piece of paper and handed it to her. ‘Mum’s a great cook so I hope your meeting won’t take long.’

‘It will be nice to have a home cooked meal for once.’ Clarice agreed, laughing. Glancing at Bo, she said quietly. ‘See you both later.’

Bo nodded at her, his eyes following her as she left.

‘What happened?’ Roman asked.

Bo sank into a chair. ‘Hope feels I screwed up... by offering a reward instead of letting her pay the ransom. Now she wants to give the ransom to Dean.’

‘Dean’s isn't eligible for the reward.’

‘I told her that but she seems to be playing the tit for tat game; I didn't listen to her hence she won’t listen to me! And Justin, I’ve had it up to here with his meddling and I’m going to make sure he knows it the next time I see him.’ Bo said angrily.

Roman shook his head, exasperated by Justin as well. ‘I think you and Hope need to get away from town for a while. Take Ciara and go to Chicago and see Shawn D and Belle; go sailing. Hope will probably feel better then.’

‘Ciara’s case isn't over.’

‘Carly... I mean, Clarice and I will handle it. And speaking about Clarice... you need to be careful.’

Bo turned his head to look at his brother warily. ‘What do you mean?’

‘Bo, I’m not an idiot. I saw the way you looked at her in your office. Things between you and Hope are already rocky... you don't want to bring Clarice in the middle.’

‘Nothing’s going to happen between me and Clarice, Roman; it was a long time ago and a lot of things have changed since we broke up. I just want to help her, that’s all. I love Hope, always will.’

As he spoke , he tried not to think of Clarice’s emerald green eyes and how his body had reacted when she touched his arm. How wonderful it had felt to hear her voice again...

That may be true little bro, but you and that little girl had a deep connection back in the day; way deeper than whatever you had with Billie, thought Roman. Bo’s love for Carly had been deep, spiritual. Letting her go really devastated him.

‘Whatever. Have you talked to Shane?’

‘Yeah.’ Bo straightened up in his chair. ‘He’s going to get back to me as soon as he’s gathered what we need. Did you call Frankie?’

Roman shook his head. ‘He’s in Brazil on business. I left a message.’

‘Damn it!’ Bo snapped. ‘Well we’ll just have to...’

‘Bo.’ Victor entered. ‘I was just at your office looking for you.’

‘If you’re here to start with me about the ransom again...’ Bo began angrily.

‘I’m not here to talk about your bad judgment call, it’s about Carly. What’s that woman doing back in Salem?’

Bo rose from his seat. ‘How’s that any of your business?’

‘I’m making it my business.’ Victor said coldly. ‘Especially if she’s going to be a threat to your marriage.’

‘You don't know what you’re saying.’ Roman retorted. ‘And you have no right to assume Carly’s here to make trouble.’

‘Oh really?’ Victor scoffed. ‘Coming here and carrying out that performance for Ciara’s benefit, what am I supposed to think otherwise?’

‘Carly doesn't know us, she doesn't even know who she really is.’ Bo snapped. ‘She has amnesia and we’re trying to get to the bottom of it.’

Victor looked momentarily taken aback. ‘Amnesia?’

‘That’s right, sorry to disappoint you. Right now, she’s Clarice Parker and for the record, I don't want you anywhere near her, for any reason.’

‘What... you think I’ll harm her?’

‘Why not... you did all you could to hurt her years ago,’ Roman replied. ‘Since she can’t remember anyone of us or her own past, it will be more than convenient for you.’

‘You’re being ridiculous, I’m just watching out for my son’s welfare.’

‘Let me worry about my own welfare, Victor; thank you very much.’ Bo said coldly. ‘My marriage’s none of your business. And stay away from Clarice. I’m not about to let her get confused her by a damned inquisition from you.’

‘Does Hope know she’s your ex?’

‘No she doesn't, and Bo just told you this got nothing to do with you!’ Roman shouted. ‘She may be Bo’s ex, but her brother was adopted by this family which still makes her one of us and we’re willing to do all we can to help  and protect her. You leave her alone or you’ll answer to us. And don't you dare tell Hope anything.’

Victor’s eyes glittered, furious at being spoken this way. ‘She just better not cause trouble within the family that’s all I’m saying; amnesia or not.’ With that, he stalked out.

‘Damn him!’ Bo spat savagely.

‘We’ve got to keep him away from her, Bo.’ Roman said. ‘And he can’t find out she’s ISA; not with his criminal ties.’

‘I know!’ Bo ran his hand over his head in aggravation. ‘But that might not be too difficult; ISA agents usually have cover identities so she’s safe unless Justin tells Victor.’

‘Justin’s got his faults but he won’t deliberately expose her like that and if he does I’ll kick his ass from here to Harmony.’ Roman vowed. ‘I wish Shane will hurry up with that info; I can’t stand this whole suspense!’

::::::::::::::::::::::::

Clarice’s debriefing lasted for a few hours and was commended for a job well done afterwards. As soon as she left the ISA building- its cover name being Transworld Finance- she shopped for some new clothes and a hair trim before going back to The Salem Inn to change into something more casual for her lunch with the Bradys; a white silk blouse with elbow sleeves and black pants, sprayed on some Givenchy and brushed her hair. As she looked at the mirror, she thought of Bo Brady again and the connection she felt with him. Like he was someone who’s been missing from her life... her missing other half.

She put the brush down, shaking her head. Oh Clarice... Clarice... snap out it! How can you possibly feel a connection with a man you just met!

But there was no denying it; she was deeply attracted to him... whether she meant to be or not. She could avoid him by cancelling and say she couldn't make it to lunch but she didn't want to offend Mrs. Brady either. She could only rely on sheer stoicism especially since Hope was going to be there.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Caroline met her at the door; enveloping her in a warm hug. ‘I’m so glad you’re able to join us, welcome.’ She led her in, watching her closely; like Bo she wondered if the house would trigger a memory.

‘Thank you Mrs. Brady; you have a lovely home. Hey Ciara!’  She opened her arms as the little girl ran to her, scooping her up in her arms then flinched at the dull pain from the healing gunshot wound on her lower back. 

‘Are you okay?’ Ciara asked anxiously as she was set down.

‘I’m fine, just a little pain on my back, nothing serious. Hello again, Hope... Bo.’

Hope nodded, while Bo smiled warmly at her in spite of himself. She looked so beautiful in the casual clothes she’d changed into. Luckily some of the family members were either too young to remember Carly or not born when they were together; Stephanie, Phillip, Will and Brady- who looked at Clarice oddly- when they were introduced, the few who did remember her: Sami, for instance, stared at her in amazement but did what her father instructed her to do.

To her relief, Caroline seated her next to Roman but she still had to cope with not meeting Bo’s eyes since he was seated opposite her. As they ate, Bo watched Clarice, unobserved as she chatted with Ciara who was seated on her left. Already she had a rapport with his daughter just like with Shawn D when he was a boy. He suddenly wondered about Nicky; if he was aware of his mother’s condition. And until Frankie returned from his trip, they were yet to know his own answer.

Clarice suddenly met his eyes. Brown and Green locked again for a few seconds. Blushing red, she turned away and resumed tucking into desert.

This is not going to easy at all, thought Bo.

CARBO FAN FICTION-Déjà Vu CHAPTER 3

Bo contacted his brother-in-law Shane Donovan via a video call the next morning.

How come you didn't know Carly’s in the agency?’

‘ISA agents are scattered round the globe, Bo; you know that.’ Shane said. ‘You know I’m with the L.A branch, she obviously belongs to one of our many other branches; here or outside the States. And I have to tell you; this memory loss of hers disturbs me a lot.’

‘Me too and I have no idea how long she’d had it Shane, or why. Which is where you come in; I want you to find out everything you can about her life before she joined ISA, how long she’s been an agent.’ Bo gave Shane her ID number.

‘Fine; I’ll go through her records and get back to you today. Does Kimberly need to know about this?’

‘Yeah, you can tell her.... just send me the information as soon as possible.’

‘Will do, Bo.’ After having breakfast with Ciara and Hope- whose manner towards him was still decidedly frosty- to his distress, he went to the station. As he was reading Dean’s typed statement, Roman put his head round the door. ‘She’s here.’

 Bo got up immediately, straightening his tie. Carly... no Clarice for now, he reminded himself, managing to assume a neutral expression as Roman ushered her in. Whatever caused her memory loss hadn’t affected her beauty; she was even more beautiful than the last time he’d seen her sixteen years ago, a face any man would look at over and over again.  Her emerald green eyes, what he’d especially loved about her, were still the same; vibrant yet shrewd and she looked very elegant in caramel pants, matching long jacket and a  black turtle neck.

‘Hello again, Commissioner Brady.’ Clarice smiled. The same sweet smile. As he enfolded her slim fingers with his Bo felt another strange rush go through him; which he firmly ignored.

‘We’re not formal around here, Clarice; please call me Bo.’

‘Bo... of course.’

‘And Roman to you,’ Roman added, pulling out a chair for her. ‘Sit down.’

Bo reached for the small tape recorder used to tape witnesses’ statements and Clarice told them what happened, including what Ciara had told her at the diner. Bo and Roman listened intently; Ciara hadn’t been questioned about what went on during her captivity because Hope didn't want her reliving the harrowing experience.

Bo and Roman looked at each other thoughtfully. Whatever the sound Ciara had heard, it wasn't important now since Kyle his accomplice were dead. Bo explained the case to Clarice, adding the part of the torched cabin.

‘We figured the third kidnapper must have been arguing with Kyle and his partner and was about to torch the place when Dean arrived since we found Dean unconscious outside when we got there. Whoever he is... he’s still out there so we have to keep Ciara at close guard.’ Roman added.

Clarice looked thoughtful. ‘Commissioner Brady... sorry... Bo,’ she corrected herself as he shook his head. ‘Obviously the third kidnapper’s someone Ciara knows, someone she’s seen before. She already knew how this Kyle looked and sounded like because he was the one who came up to her in the park and at the carnival in the first place. So... why would he take the trouble to block her ears with music?’

Spoken like a true detective... thought Bo, filled with admiration, as he kept his eyes on her. Roman too was impressed.

Clarice went on, ‘Ciara’s a very observant little girl. On the way here I asked her if she heard the woman’s voice. She said she didn't sound like anyone she knows. If this woman was planning on skipping town with Kyle once they got the ransom...’

‘Why bother shielding her voice if she’ll be long gone before Ciara can identify her.’ Bo finished her sentence. ‘The third kidnapper didn't want Ciara to recognise his voice because he’s not a stranger to her. It makes a lot of sense.’

 ‘Bo, Roman... I’m going to be in town for a while. With your permission, I’d like to help you with what’s left of this case. Like you said, Ciara’s still in danger since whoever this person is covered his tracks well by making sure she didn't see or hear him. It could be anybody you both know. Obviously a “him” since Ciara didn't sense two types of perfume.’

Bo met his brother’s eyes and Roman nodded in agreement.

‘Any help you give us will be appreciated, Clarice. We’re glad to have you on board.’ Bo shook her hand again as she rose from her seat, immediately wishing he hadn’t as he experienced the odd sensation again as their hands made contact. He met her eyes, finding it hard to look away.

Roman swiftly rescued him by clearing his throat and Bo let go of her hand.

‘Yeah Clarice, we’re glad to liaise with you on this case, considering the kidnapped person’s a member of our family.’

Clarice shrugged. ‘It’s no problem at all. Besides, anybody who goes around kidnapping children need to be taught a lesson.’

Roman patted her shoulder. ‘Oh, he will be once we catch him.’ As he spoke, Hope entered the office.

 ‘Clarice, this is my wife; Detective Hope Brady.’ Never, never did Bo ever think he would be doing this, introducing Hope to a former great love. ‘Hope, this is Agent Clarice Parker.’

Hope looked over her carefully as they shook hands; taking note of the woman’s exotic features.

‘Mrs. Brady...’

Hope shook her head, looking scandalised. ‘Nobody calls me that, Hope please. And thank you for helping my daughter.’

‘I just happened to be there. How is she?’

‘She’s very glad to be home; I just dropped her off at her grandmother’s. She’s been asking for you, actually. And Caroline wondered if you will join us for a family lunch today.’

Say yes... Bo willed silently, watching Clarice. Being back in a house she went to many times in the past might trigger something in her mind. It could be a start.

‘Uh... sure. I’d love to.’ Clarice smiled.

‘By the way; Clarice is going to help us close the case.’ Roman informed her.     

Hope frowned. For some reason this didn't sit well with her. ‘Really? Why?’

Bo told her what their daughter had told Clarice and Clarice’s theory. ‘So she’s offered to help us catch this guy, whoever he is.’

Hope hesitated for a minute. ‘ISA don't usually handle kidnappings.’

‘I know. But I was recruited from the FBI; back then I was with the BAU... I profiled suspected kidnappers who also turned out to be serial killers and before that, I was an officer with the NYPD.’

Bo and Roman barely managed to hide their amazement as they digested her words. Shane better hurry up with that info before I lose it! Bo thought in frustration.

Hope bit her lip, suddenly feeling she’d just been made to look foolish. ‘Of course I don't doubt your expertise, Agent Parker. I’m just saying...’

‘Hope.’ Bo firmly cut in, ‘Clarice volunteered to help us and Roman and I are in agreement. And with the theory she’s given, we could really use her.’

‘Look, if this is going to present a problem...’ Clarice began anxiously.

‘No Clarice, no problem at all. You have my complete approval. In the meantime, I’d like you and my brother to leave me and Detective Brady alone for a minute.’ Bo said, looking daggers at his wife.

Roman took Clarice’s arm. ‘Come on, I’ll make you some coffee.’ Clarice followed him willingly; puzzled by the hostile vibes in the air.

‘Does it hurt you to show a little courtesy and gratitude?’ Bo hissed at Hope as soon as the door closed.

‘What are you talking about?’ Hope snapped.

‘You basically hinted that we don't need her help. What the hell is that?’

‘I wasn't trying to offend Agent Parker... I just think it isn’t necessary; we can handle this ourselves.’

‘Well, it’s not your call. She’s going to help us solve this case; period.’

Hope stared at him, dark eyes angry and resentful. ‘Well, since she’s going to have to put up with you bossing her around, good luck to her. Has Dean come in yet?’

‘I imagine he’ll probably sleep in today. Why?’

‘I told you last night I’m giving him the reward.’

‘No way.’

‘Are you going to tell me what I can and can’t do with my own money again? You were the one who decided to offer a reward instead of paying the ransom, remember?’

‘Department’s rules state that an officer on duty isn't eligible for the reward, you know that very well.’

‘My rule,’ Hope said with emphasis, ‘states that a promise is a debt. Dean put his life on the line when he went out there to rescue Ciara and I’m going to make sure he’s compensated. Justin agrees with me and he’s going to arrange for the money to be wired.’

‘Oh sure... Justin.’ Bo snapped. ‘You can guarantee him agreeing with you, can’t you?’

‘Well, it’s not like I’ve had much luck with my husband in that area.’ Hope snapped back. ‘Dean’s getting the reward; end of discussion.’

Swiftly, Bo walked across the room as she turned away; grabbing her arms before she could open the door and forced her to face him.

‘What’s happened to us?’ he whispered. ‘Why are you being this way with me... why?’

Hope disentangled herself from his grip. ‘Because you refuse to admit you screwed up, that’s why. Now you won’t let me do the right thing, even after you proposed it on TV.’

‘For God’s sake... ’

‘Brady, just leave me alone. When you’re ready to say you were wrong, let me know, okay?’ Shoving him aside, she opened the door and left, slamming it behind her.