Fan Fiction

by MJ

Intro :: Part 1: Revolution :: Part 2: Reward :: Part 3: Rewiring :: Part 4: Remembrance

Image Credits :: Music Credits

October 1994

Sonny

Sonny stood there watching from the bedroom door as Gina walked by, humming happily to herself.

"Sonny, listen for the doorbell, will you? People should be getting here pretty soon."

"Yeah," he answered, distractedly. Obviously uncomfortable, he twisted his neck around, doing his best to loosen the stiff shirt collar and tie he had been wearing since early that morning.

"Damn!" he muttered under his breath. "This is worse than a hangman's noose!"

Gina laughed and shook her head. "I might have known that wouldn't last."

He saw her carry guest towels into the bathroom and hearing Emily whimpering in her crib, he quietly slipped into her room.

"Shh, shh...come here you. What's the matter?" he chuckled, picking the baby up into his arms.

Gina sighed impatiently when she caught sight of him.

"Sonny, I told you before! You're going to spoil her!"

"Come on, it's not like holding her is going to warp her personality," he grumbled as he carried her out into the family room.

He sat on the couch and looked down at her with a smile.

"Hey there," he whispered softly.

His little girl's china blue eyes looked up at him and he kissed the dimpled fist clutched tightly around his thick, rough finger. He never grew tired of looking at her.

When she was first born, he would sit on the deck for hours, studying her tiny features, awestruck with this perfection in miniature. Her hair was the color of sunlight, her skin a pearl-like pink.

Emily.

He had chosen the name. It was old fashioned and innocent. He thought it suited her.

When the doctor announced it was a girl, he remembered panicking just a little. What did he know about little girls? Billy had been a real dynamo, always demanding a roughhouse kind of play. And with his profession, Sonny was so totally immersed in a world of violence and death that he was almost afraid he had forgotten how to leave the horror of it all behind. How on earth could he ever be a good father to this fragile child?

"That's a picture I'd love to pin to the Credit Union Bulletin Board," Rico said laughing softly as came into the room and sat down in a chair in front of Sonny.

"Yeah, where's a camera when I need one," Stan laughed, his voice booming loudly.

Crockett refused to even look at them. "Knock it off," he growled. "I still have a reputation to uphold!"

"Right. So, here ya go, Dad!" Stan said teasingly.

Sonny looked up to see a sight that made him almost double over with laughter.

Stan was wearing one of his loud Hawaiian shirts and light colored pants that were stretched tightly across his large belly. A giant brown teddy bear was tucked under one arm while he struggled valiantly to balance a large box, gaily wrapped with pink paper and a frilly white bow.

"Okay, speaking of cameras, how about I catch a shot of this vision for the album, Gina?" he roared.

Gina had come back into the room and reached down to take the baby from him. "She needs to be changed again. That's why she's crying, Sonny. Not that I would expect you to figure that one out."

He shot his wife a look that made her laugh.

"Oh, that's right! I keep forgetting what a pro you are!" she said in mock seriousness. "Rico, will you and Stan set up some more chairs outside for me?"

"Sure."

Rico looked over at Crockett and grinned.

"There's a lot of good blackmail material here, Crockett. You'll be paying us off for the rest of your life!"

Frowning at their muffled laughter, he watched Rico and Stan leave for the backyard, turning just in time to see Marty arriving. They greeted each other with a warm handshake.

"I wanted to thank you again for the honor, Sonny."

"Gina and I had no trouble deciding on this one. You were the perfect choice to be Emily's godfather."

Sonny hesitated for a moment. "I'm glad we have this opportunity to talk alone, Marty. There's something important I need to discuss with you."

Castillo sat down on the couch facing Crockett, prepared to listen to whatever his detective needed to confide in him.

"We talked the other day about the importance of being focused when a job has to be done," Sonny began. "And we talked about the responsibility of family and loyalty to the unit. I was having a lot of trouble coming to terms with all of that, but I did what you suggested. I talked to Gina, and I thought long and hard about my choices. I called Jeff Berger over at the Academy. He had been asking if I would give a couple of pep talks to the rookies, and I'd been putting him off. That is, up until now. I was thinking that maybe I'd should take some steps towards making those pep talks a little more formal."

Crockett sat down next to Castillo and looked off into the distance.

"Transferring to a teaching post at the Academy makes a lot of sense, really. I'd still have the chance to be involved in police work...share some of my experience with the new blood. Gina thinks it's a great idea. She's hoping I'll finally get a chance to relax. That is, if I haven't forgotten how to over the past twenty years."

"I can't say I won't be sorry to lose you, Sonny, but I'm happy for you just the same. Knowing when to bow out is half the battle in this business. And the direction you have chosen is a good one."

"It won't be until the spring, though. I want to get used to the whole idea gradually and Jeff said the new class wouldn't be starting for a few months, so that should work out perfectly."

"Have you talked to Rico yet?"

"A little. I wanted to reassure him that I was still on track after that fiasco with Solotzo. I also told him I was considering taking Jeff up on his offer. He didn't seem surprised. Said he had seen it coming." Sonny smiled ruefully. "Guess I was the only one with the blinders on."

"We can't always see the obvious when it involves ourselves." Castillo stood up and offered his hand to Crockett. "I wish you all the luck, Sonny. Hopefully, you'll encourage those students of yours to consider a career in the "glamorous" world of Vice. But just let me warn you. You'd better brush up on your policy and procedure before you start spreading some of your unorthodox philosophies to those innocents. If you don't, Jeff will nail you to the wall."

"Yeah, thanks, I guess I'll need a crash course," Sonny chuckled. "But, Lieutenant. There is something else. Something that is even more important that I need to ask you from you."

Sonny was obviously struggling to find the right words.

"Just let's say something should happen to me, you know, either over the next few months or even after I get out. I want to make sure that Gina and the baby are looked after." Sonny looked at Marty anxiously. "I need to know that you'll be that someone. I could ask Rico, but he's making rumblings about going back to New York. And Gina's family is scattered all over, mostly in San Antonio. You've been a good friend to me over the years, Martin. We've been through a lot together and I've always known in the past that I could count on you when it mattered. Of course, if this is too much to ask, tell me now. I'll understand."

"Put your mind at rest, Sonny," he said. "I can assure you, I take this role of godfather very seriously. Even if you hadn't asked me, I would always be there for you and your family."

Sonny was touched by Marty's reaction.

"Thanks, Lieutenant. That means a lot."

"No, Crockett. It is I who should be grateful. And now," he said lightly, as he stood up from the couch. "Let's go get something to eat, before Stan and the crew finish off all that good food I saw Gina and Trudy putting out a few minutes ago!"

They headed out onto the deck where some of the guests had already gathered and Sonny picked up a champagne bottle from the ice filled cooler, offering to fill empty glasses while pausing from time to time to catch up with old friends and relatives.

Marty stood back to watch as the sound of music and happy laughter filled the air.

"Here, Lieutenant. Do me a favor and hold Emily for me, will you?" Gina smiled shyly as she handed the tiny child to Castillo. "All the women folk seem to be occupied at the moment and I need to get something from the oven. You don't mind, do you?"

Martin did not answer but Gina could see that he had accepted her request willingly, smiling slightly as he took the baby from her. It surprised her to see how comfortable he seemed to be, almost as if he had been holding babies all his life. His face was a mixture of emotions as he looked down at the sleeping infant.

"She looks so great in your arms," she said to him softly. She was aware that one of Martin's deepest regrets had been never having a family of his own. He looked up at Gina and she could tell by the moisture in his eyes that he was deeply moved.

"She's beautiful, Gina," he told her quietly. He looked back down at Emily and outlined the child's delicate face with his finger.

His actions amazed her, but they were also reassuring. Bringing a child into this world of uncertainty, it was a great comfort for her to know that no matter what happened in the future, Emily would always be safe, nestled in the arms of her warrior angel.

February 1995

Pedrosa

Watching his plan fall apart so completely filled the man with rage.

First, the boy was killed, his men got arrested...and then...the trial.

Six months had passed since that courtroom drama had taken place and after it was over he had been forced to take a "little vacation", hoping that Castillo would give up looking for him and eventually lose interest.

But the time away made him fearful that he had lost a lot of ground in Miami. Again, Crockett had made him look like a fool.

"I am here, Carlos," Castenada said as he came slowly into the room and stood in front of Pedrosa's desk.

It had been a while since they had talked. Despite his dissatisfaction with the way things had been handled, Pedrosa did not blame his old friend. He stood up to greet him, a reassuring smile of welcome on his face.

"I called in a few markers and managed to keep you out of serious jail time," he said. "But now I need to go forward, Hector, and since they have connected you to me, I must turn to someone else. As far as I'm concerned, from this moment on you can go back to your business and live in peace."

"I am sorry it turned out this way," the drug dealer said uneasily. "But I thank God the judge saw the wisdom of accepting the evidence in our favor."

No doubt Castaneda considered himself lucky he was being allowed to bow out without any repercussions.

"You had the influence to make things happen," he continued. "I am forever in your debt. And if you need me to help you in any other way, please do not hesitate to ask."

Pedrosa dismissed him with a wave. "You served me well, Hector and I am grateful. Go home to your little boys. They need you now. I do not!"

Castaneda smiled lightly. "Do not judge me harshly, Señor. I am still a loyal soldier."

"You may still be of use, I don't deny it. But right now, you are a liability that I cannot afford. If you want to be useful, keep your ear to the ground. If you hear the police so much as belch, I want to be told. Can you handle that, Hector?"

Castaneda was not amused and his face darkened with anger. "You insult me, Carlos. Don't forget about the information I got for you from the Santiago boy. That was invaluable to you."

Pedrosa could see that Castaneda was reluctant to leave things unsettled between them. "So now we are even, my friend," he said softly.

"Then good luck, Carlos," Hector murmured. "I hope you are able to carry out this vendetta to its conclusion and finally find some peace. But in the meantime, I would like to offer you a piece of advice-for old times sake."

"Of course. Your counsel is always appreciated."

"Be careful of Castillo. I have watched him for several years now. The man thinks like a jungle warrior and he is incorruptible. Crockett is good too, but if I wanted to eliminate the most dangerous obstacle in Miami, I would concentrate on the leader."

Pedrosa studied him for a moment and then smiled slowly. "Perhaps I will be able to destroy them both."

"You have taken on a difficult task, Señor. Again, if I can help you, I will be close by. You have my friendship. Forever."

It was a pretty speech, but Pedrosa was not fooled. The pride that had motivated Castenada in the past was long gone.

"Goodbye, Hector," he answered, watching the door close as the man slipped away hurriedly.

He sat down in the large leather chair behind his desk and closing his eyes, he leaned back with a sigh.

"You wanted to see me, Carlos?"

Pedrosa sat up with a start.

Roberto Ortíz had entered the room so quietly, it almost seemed as if he had appeared out of thin air. Recovering quickly, Carlos fixed the younger man with a smoldering stare.

"Yes. It is time that you and Julio brought me the information you have been gathering. I have waited a long time to bring my plan for Miami into action. Every day that I delay is costing me more and more money. Every cent I lose is costing me the respect I deserve."

Ortíz returned the stare.

"I have everything ready. I just need your advice to plan the events out carefully."

Pedrosa seemed pleased.

"At last. Make yourself a drink and let's hear what you have to say."

He watched Roberto avoid the cut glass decanter of liquor and reach for the carafe of cold water instead, pouring some carefully into a crystal glass. Without hesitating, he brought it to his lips and drank thirstily.

Pedrosa knew Roberto was ambitious. Castaneda was competition and now Ortíz would welcome the opportunity to take over. The younger man was doing his best not to appear delighted at this turn of events.

"Castaneda's information about Crockett was helpful and I know he went to a great deal of trouble to get it. Fortunately, you were able to keep him out of prison."

"His services were useful. But information is one thing. Now I need action. What is the plan?"

Ortíz was more than happy to fill him in.

"I have sent out feelers into the community," he told him. "The local dealers think I am from the Columbian cartel, ready to do business. We have made it known that I am anxious to unload a large shipment of cocaine. I have made it clear that I need someone to act as a go between and to be in charge of transportation. Once that gets around, I am bound to hear from "Burnett".

Pedrosa saw Ortíz glace at him nervously.

"Perhaps that will work," he said finally. "You must make it look as attractive as possible. Crockett is planning to leave his position with Vice soon and he may not want to become involved in a lengthy investigation."

"It has been reported that I am an up and coming young entrepreneur and a potential threat to the peace and harmony of his precious city. Crockett will never let that pass. All I have to do is set up the meet and I know he will want to be in on the arrest."

Now the corners of Pedrosa's mouth curled into a sly smile.

"Yes. He has set up deals like that a thousand times. Perhaps his guard will be down." He hesitated. "Of course you realize that since the authorities have heard about your connections to the cartel, they will be circulating your biography to every cop in the city."

"I'm counting on that. It exaggerates my importance and makes my story more believable. Also, I'm getting friendly with one of the informants Crockett depends on heavily. That should help to make sure that I am able to feed him the information I want him to have."

Pedrosa poured himself some water and wrapped his hand around the cold glass as he carefully considered all the possibilities.

"It has a good feel to it," he said at last. "Let me know when you hear from him, Roberto."

Once more, Pedrosa held Roberto's eyes with his own commanding gaze. "You must meet with him a couple of times to earn his trust. Then, when you set up the meeting place for the exchange, tell him he must come alone."

Ortíz nodded.

"And make sure there are several ways to escape so that you will not get boxed in by the police backup. I suggest the warehouse we've used before. The highway is nearby and the neighborhood is crisscrossed with alleyways."

"You'll be kept informed."

"I will need to know every detail of what you plan to do, Roberto. From the moment you expect to shake hands with the man to the moment you think the time will be right for you to bring him to me."

Roberto looked startled. "I thought you wanted us to kill him for you!"

"Oh, no. I insist on being the one who pulls the trigger. Make sure no one denies me that privilege, do you understand?"

"Yes," Roberto answered softly. He knew how much Pedrosa enjoyed watching men die.

"Then I have calls to make," Roberto said, getting up quickly. "Goodnight, Señor Pedrosa."

"Goodnight, Roberto." Pedrosa stood with him. "Oh, and Roberto?"

"Si?"

"Good work."

"Thank you, Señor," Roberto answered, swallowing hard to regain his composure.

1995

March 29th

Sonny

Word was out there was a new guy in town. Castillo had announced very early that morning that he wanted to speak to them all and the group had assembled in the office conference room.

Crockett looked up at the clock, watching wearily as the minute hand circled the perimeter for the seventh time. He had never been a clock-watcher before, but now that his career as an undercover cop was almost over, he found himself anxious to close out his cases and get on with the next phase of his life. If this new investigation lasted beyond his scheduled departure, he might have to stick around and see it to its conclusion since there was nothing that Sonny Crockett hated more than leaving behind loose ends.

Rico had arrived several minutes after Sonny, dressed neatly in a suit Sonny had never seen before.

As always, the guy looked like he had just stepped out of GQ, but this morning, he seemed distant, turning his head to the side and staring out the window without acknowledging anyone's presence.

Trudy was sitting by herself, nursing a cup of coffee, her eyes still closed after pulling a second all-nighter. Stan sat back with a bored expression on his face, and Sonny straightened himself up suddenly, worried that he might be projecting the same unsettling image.

They waited in silence for their boss, each burdened with their own troubles, each wishing intensely that they could be anywhere else but there. The door to the conference room opened and the lieutenant entered carrying a stack of folders in his arms.

"His name is Roberto Ortíz," Castillo announced as he proceeded to hand them out, one by one. Without being told, they flipped opened to find a shiny photograph of a handsome young Hispanic man staring back at them with dark, penetrating eyes.

"Twenty-eight years of age. A newcomer from Columbia," Castillo began. "Heavily involved with the cartel and anxious to get a foothold in Miami. Our job is to make sure that he doesn't."

Crockett was trying hard to pay attention.

"Intelligence tells us he's authorized by the cartel to move millions of dollars worth of cocaine and drop it into the hands of major distributors in Miami. From there, he is hoping it can be filtered out to the rest of the country. There is great potential for this man to make a fortune. He will be determined to make this work."

At last Sonny felt his first stirring of interest.

"Do we know if he is aligning with anyone else?" he asked.

"For now, the only information we have is that he has been on our shores for the past year, quietly working behind the scenes until he was sure of where he stood. Early this week, he announced his intentions. He is waiting for an offer."

"A year! And we never heard of him before? How is that possible, Marty?"

Now Sonny smelled a rat.

"That's for us to unravel. In the meantime, I suggest we establish contact before it goes too far. There are plenty of takers out there expecting to make huge profits and I want it stopped before they get his attention."

"So he wants someone to offer him transportation, I imagine. Maybe even a buyer."

"That was what we were told. Actually, it was one of your own informants who came forward with this, Crockett."

Sonny looked over at him curiously.

"Oh, yeah! Who?"

"Izzy Moreno."

Sonny snorted contemptuously. "Oh great! That source is always reliable!"

"I wanted to be sure before I pulled you all in on this and made it into a full-blown investigation. Most of what he told us has checked out so far."

Sonny was surprised Castillo had not given them the job of making sure Izzy was on the level."

"Who did the checking?" he asked.

"I did."

Another surprise.

"You and Rico were busy with the Solotzo case and we've been down a man with Gina out," Marty explained. "Besides, I wanted to be sure about this before we wasted precious time following through since Moreno's been known to lead us astray in the past."

Now Rico snorted. "Yeah, that's for sure," he muttered.

Sonny glared over at his partner.

What the hell is eating him this morning?

"So, Izzy has the inside information on this? You're telling me I have to go out of my way to contact this little worm and give him the satisfaction of having to rely on him for the facts? Not my idea of the best way to stop Godzilla from destroying Tokyo."

Castillo said nothing and Sonny started to feel the heat from his stare.

"I've been communicating with the DEA on this and they agree. The man is a serious threat."

"Okay, Lieutenant. I'm on it. No more arguments."

"Keep me posted," his superior said abruptly before leaving the room.

The group sat in silence for a moment.

"Go home and get some sleep, Trudy," Sonny said, leaning sympathetically towards her. "I'll let you know if anything develops.

He saw the corner of her lips go up slightly. "Thanks," she murmured gratefully. "I'm beat."

They watched as she staggered to the door and left without looking back.

"So, when you're ready for surveillance Sonny, let me know," Stan said with a yawn. "I have some reports to write on another case and I'd like to get started if you don't need me at the moment."

"Fine Stan. Looks like it's a one man operation for now, anyway." Sonny glanced over at Rico. "What about you? Have other plans as well?"

Rico's eyes darted over guiltily and he stared at Sonny for a minute. "Excuse me," he muttered. "I gotta make a phone call. I'll be right back." He got up and walked out before Sonny could think of a way to stop him.

Now what?

Okay. So they all ran out on him. Fine. Izzy was not the most difficult guy in the world to find. He'd call him at his last place of residence and get the straight story once and for all. He knew how to get Izzy to come clean. In fact, last time he checked, he was happy to learn that he held enough over the little crook to be able send him away for at least a lifetime and a half if not more!

---

"So you're telling me you heard this from a friend of a friend?" Crockett felt his stomach muscles tense.

"Yeah. This guy I know, hees friend just got out of the slammer. He heard it from one of the guys who used to work for Morales up in Jacksonville. That guy's been inside for three years, I theenk."

"Oh, so then your friend heard it from a friend that heard it from a guy who has been inside the pen for the past three years! What ya tryin' to pull on me here, Izzy? This is the most round about story you've ever dished out! In fact it sounds about as reliable as a game of post office!"

"Not true, Crockett! This Ortíz is for real! In fact, I heard he's already made contact with a few interested buyers. I wouldn't waste anymore time if I were you. This guy wants to score, and fast!"

Sonny felt a stab of urgency and knew he was hooked.

"Okay. Do you have a way of communicating with this boy wonder?"

"As a matter of fact, yes."

Sonny didn't bother to ask Izzy how. Better that he let the little guy keep his methods to himself for now.

"Let the man know I'm around and that I'm interested in having him contact me. He can reach me on the St. Vitus. Throw in the fact that I have the fastest cigarette boat in these parts and if he bites, then there might be something in all this for you."

"There better be, Crockett. The last time I stuck my neck out for ju, I almost got my head chopped off by a crazed biker and his tattooed girlfriend."

Sonny laughed. "Oh yeah! I forgot about those two. Well, no harm done. They're being well taken care, living out their days in separate housing, courtesy of the state. You won't have to worry about them for at least, oh the next twenty-five years!"

A shudder shook the little Cuban from head to toe. "With the chances I take for ju, it's a wonder I am still able to walk the streets without getting a knife stuck in my back. The least ju can do is give me a little advance, Crockett. I have bills to pay, ju know. All this dangerous yakety yak is not for free."

For the first time since he had been doing business with the Cuban, Sonny actually felt sorry for the guy. Against his better judgment, he reached in his pocket and forked over five twenties. "Here's an advance. Don't spend it all in once place, buddy. And buy yourself something decent to wear, will ya please?"

Izzy's eyes widened. Behind the coke bottle glasses, they looked like the bulging eyes of a giant goldfish.

"Ah...thanks, Crockett. I...well, it's nice doing business with ju. Ah. Okay. I'll call you. I mean, I'll call him. Yeah. Okay. Nice, real nice. You letting me keep this, right Crockett?"

Sonny laughed. "Don't mess this up Izzy," he said. "This one feels real important and I want to wrap it up quickly. Comprende?"

"I won't let ju down, my friend. You'll see."

---

Sonny pulled up to the front of OCB and turned off the engine. Rico was coming down the steps and he hesitated for a moment before approaching the car.

"Hey, what's goin' on?" Rico asked quietly.

Sonny looked out the window of the Testarossa and studied Rico without answering.

"Did you find Izzy?" Rico asked.

"Yeah. We talked."

"And?"

Sonny sighed. "Get in," he said testily. "I'll give you the lowdown if you'll tell me what's been eating you all day. Then maybe we can clear the air and get some work done around here."

Rico patted the side of the car and walked around the front bumper until he reached the passenger side. Opening the door, he slid into the seat and pulled the door shut.

Sonny took off his RayBans and waited for Tubbs to open up.

"It just started to hit me," Rico began. "It's coming to an end. An end for you and me. Guess I'm having a tough time getting used to the idea this time."

Sonny took in a deep breath and let the air out slowly. Putting his hand on Rico's shoulder, he smiled at him sadly.

"I'm sorry, Rico. I never had a clue. I'm not looking forward to breaking up the partnership, either. But...but that doesn't mean the friendship is over. That's going to be forever, buddy. The last time we parted, I almost disappeared off the face of the earth but this time, I have both feet planted firmly on the ground."

"I know and believe me, I'm glad that things worked out the way they did for you. But I just found out I have some things I have to deal with in the upcoming month, and it may involve my going away for a while."

"Oh yeah? What's going on?"

"Valerie. The department has her up on charges again. This time, I don't think she going to beat it."

The shock hit Sonny hard.

"What happened, Rico?" he asked shakily.

"She killed a kid. Shot him during an attempted drug bust. Val insisted she saw a gun. Turns out the kid had no weapon. Even her own partner didn't support her. When she realized she didn't have a leg to stand on, she turned in her gun and her badge."

Memories of a similar situation he had gone through hit Sonny like a powerful punch.

"Man," he said sadly. "That's rough."

"She's pretty despondent about it. I was going to go up to see her this weekend, but she told me to stay away. I don't know if I should ignore that or what. We haven't been on the best of terms lately, especially after the way I left without saying goodbye. But you know I still have feelings for her. She needs a friend at the very least."

"Does she have a good lawyer?"

"Yeah, one of the best. But the bad thing about all this is that she doesn't want anyone to defend herself. She feels like she deserves some kind of punishment. At the moment, I'm afraid she might be her own worst enemy."

Again, Sonny heard the words and thought back to his own struggle with despair. He could still hear the mournful beeping of the mechanical respirator as it struggled to keep the young boy he had shot alive.

"I can understand that, Rico. But if she gets some help, she can learn to live with this eventually. Unfortunately, this is her third strike, though. Sounds like her days of police work have come to an end."

"Yeah. She admits that as well. I...I'm going to call her later. She's staying with a friend in the city. We'll see." Rico sighed. "But in the meantime, I'm with you on this one, Sonny. I'll do my best not to let this distract me, I promise."

"Think of all the times I've been a million miles away, buddy. I promise, if I see ya drifting, I'll give ya a poke, okay?"

Laughing a little, Rico settled back against the comfortable headrest. "Okay. Tell me about the meeting with Izzy. What nonsense is he trying to sell us this time?"

Sonny filled him in, leaving out the part about the many sources that fed into the story, preferring to do the worrying about that himself. He also left out the part about paying Izzy a portion of his reward ahead of time. Rico would think he had gone soft in the head if he heard about that one.

"I'm goin' back to the boat to wait for the call. Izzy is supposed to give Ortíz my number so I want to be there is he tries and establish contact. Want to come over and do a little fishin'?"

"Yeah, okay. Let me give Val that call, and I'll be over after that."

"Sounds okay, Rico. Good luck, buddy. And tell her I send my best."

---

Sonny could hear the phone ringing from the galley as he walked along the dock.

"Damn!" he muttered, sprinting toward the St. Vitus. He jumped aboard, thumping hard on the deck, and fumbled with the lock on the hatch. Already, he had counted six rings.

"Hello, hello!" he shouted breathlessly into the receiver. "Burnett!"

Dead silence taunted him. Furious he had missed the call, he was about to slam the receiver down when he heard the sound of amused laughter.

"Burnett?" a voice rumbled. "What happened? You fall down a flight of stairs or something."

"Yeah, somethin' like that. Who's calling?"

"Roberto Ortíz. You don't know me, but I heard about you from a mutual friend. He tells me you are the man to see around here when it comes to moving merchandise in the right direction."

"Well, that all depends."

"On what?"

"On who the hell you are, for one!"

A soft chuckle tickled his ear.

"Of course. That goes without saying. I am someone who is part of a very powerful organization. The men I work for are anxious to move their product in America and they have commissioned me to act as their broker, so to speak. So here I am, casting around trying to contact the right people for a very important job."

"And just what is it you are trying to peddle, Señor Ortíz," Sonny asked sarcastically.

"It's not something I'd broadcast over the airwaves, Burnett. So just let's say it's a product you are very familiar with, and leave it at that. I was told you know just about half the well-heeled buyers in Miami. And that you have a fast boat."

"True."

"I'd like to meet with you."

"When?"

"Right now."

Sonny looked at his watch and frowned. Rico would be on his way by now.

"I need a little more advanced warning than that, Ortíz. I already have an appointment."

"Cancel it."

Sonny looked at his watch again.

"Okay. Where?"

"There's a little restaurant over on the other side of the bay. Chiquita's. You know it??

"Yeah. I've been there."

"Good. Then I'll see you in half an hour. Come alone. And don't be late."

The line went dead and Sonny stared at if for half a minute. Considering the traffic, it would probably take him a half an hour just to get there. If he left right away, he would just make it. Scribbling a note on a spiral notebook telling Rico where he was headed, he propped it up against the hatch.

Rico,

I got the call around four. Ortíz wants to meet with me at Chiquita's. He insisted I meet with him now and I didn't have time to wait for backup. It's only a get acquainted meet, anyway. Crack open a beer and I should be back no later than six.

Sonny

Traffic had thinned a little and Sonny made better time than he expected. He entered the busy dining room expecting to be told there would be a wait when the pretty young hostess approached him.

"The name's Burnett," he told her. "Señor Ortíz is expecting me."

"This way, Señor. Your party is already waiting," she answered and giving him a seductive smile she began to lead him toward the back of the restaurant. She walked slightly in front of him and he watched her hips swaying under the long peasant skirt, aware that her little show was definitely being put on for his benefit.

Sonny glanced over at the bar and made eye contact with a familiar face. The bartender knew him well and saluted him with a smile. If anything funny happened, John would know enough to call for reinforcements.

"Here you are," she crooned as she opened the door to a private room and nodded for him to enter.

The lighting was soft. Candles flickered from the breeze created by the ceiling fans turning lazily above. Two men sat at a small table in the corner looking over at Crockett with mild interest. The one on the left was a large man, wearing a white suit and puffing on a long cigar. His eyes were small and piercing. A bushy tuft of hair seemed to sprout directly from his nose and sit haphazardly on his upper lip.

The other man was younger. His build was slight, his mocha complexion offset by lustrous eyes, as black as night.

A smile lit up his face as Sonny approached, revealing a set of milk white teeth.

"Señor Burnett, welcome," he said, standing up and putting out his hand. "I am Roberto Ortíz."

Nodding slightly, Sonny accepted the hand, appreciating the firmness of the young dealer's grasp.

"I trust you did not have much traffic?" Ortíz asked pleasantly.

"I was lucky. Usually it's impossible at this hour."

"Good. So, be seated. What will you have to drink?"

"Bourbon. Straight up," Sonny said looking around him as he sat down carefully.

Ortíz snapped his fingers at the young hostess and she turned quickly to fill the newcomer's order. Sonny's eyes adjusted gradually to the dimness and he watched the big man sitting across from him release large clouds of cigar smoke that floated up toward the ceiling. The giant's eyelids drooped heavily, making him seem relaxed enough to fall asleep.

"Who's your partner?" Sonny muttered, making it clear he didn't appreciate the rudeness.

Ortíz laughed. "Oh, that's Felipe. Felipe Cortez. Don't mind him, Señor. He's just along for the ride. He is my driver. And...my bodyguard." Ortíz laughed.

"Bodyguard? So, you think you need a bodyguard, Ortíz? I was under the impression that type of thing was only necessary when there was a reason to be protected."

Ortíz refused to be baited.

"You think I'm a lightweight, Burnett?"

Sonny shrugged. "I don't know you. I never even heard of you before today. What's so important about you that makes it necessary to hire muscle?"

"Before I answer that question, I want to talk to you for awhile. Even though you come highly recommended, I need to find things out for myself. I don't hire anyone until I understand how his mind works. It is important to know a man before you can trust him, don't you think?"

"I'm not someone you put on your payroll, Ortíz. I work for myself. If you have a product worth pedaling and you want me to set you up with one of my customers, that can be arranged, if you can meet their terms. And if you need a fast boat to transport your merchandise, I can be of service there too, if you meet my terms. After that, the relationship is over."

"That seems reasonable."

A heavyset waiter walked into the room, carrying a tray laden with drinks.

"Ah, gracias, Paulo," Ortíz said grandly.

Once the drinks were set down and the waiter left, the conversation continued.

"My reputation is solid," Sonny began. "And my boat is built to take the punishment."

"Yes, but is it fast?"

"It's been known to outrun anything the Coast Guard can throw at it!"

Ortíz's face remained impassive.

"Okay. I'll accept your word, since my source supports what you say."

Sonny tried not to let his face betray his contempt. Anyone who trusted Izzy Moreno as a reliable source had obviously not done his homework.

"So, do I pass inspection, or are we going to play this little game back and forth all night," Sonny asked, a hint of annoyance in his tone. "I have another appointment that I put off because of this little téte-á-téte and I don't want to annoy this other guy any more than he has been already."

Ortíz looked down at the table and swirled his drink moodily.

"I have a shipment of cocaine and I need to move it very quickly. It's a large amount and because of this, I will have to do it in stages. Trying to move it in bulk is too risky."

"Naturally."

"So, this is where you come in. You let your buyers know what we have to offer. You arrange for payment and you set up the transfer."

"My fee is steep."

"Reliable service is never cheap."

Sonny grinned. "Okay. Here's how it works on my end. We set up a date, you bring a sample of the product and I bring the good faith money. You let me test it and if I like what I see, then you fork over two keys for my customer to eyeball. Once they tell me they are happy with what you got, then, we go from there."

"I see. Okay. Let me think about this a bit and I'll get back to you."

"Think? There's nothing to think about! That's the way I do business and there's no room for negotiation."

"Nevertheless, Burnett, I'm a careful man. I am not impulsive, nor am I foolhardy."

Sonny drained the last of his drink and stood.

"I'm late for my next customer. I'll be going now."

"So soon? I thought you'd be sharing a meal with us."

Sonny frowned slightly. "Naw, I don't think so, Señor," he drawled. "Mexican food doesn't agree with me as a rule."

Ortíz looked up at him and waited.

"You have my number," Sonny said. "After you've finally made up your mind, give me a call. If I'm not in, the machine'll pick up."

Ortíz sat back.

"Good night, then, Señor," he said softly.

"I wouldn't wait too long, if I were you, Ortíz," Sonny warned. "I'm a busy man and my response to the demand is strictly on a first come first served basis."

"Thank you. I'll keep it in mind. Adiós, Burnett."

Feeling as if he had been dismissed, Crockett turned abruptly and strode out of the room attempting to appear nonchalant. It puzzled him as to why things hadn't gone as well as he had hoped. The guy was obviously anxious to unload his shipment in a hurry.

"Pompous little prick!" he muttered to himself as he hurried into the parking lot and climbed into his car.

He started the engine and checked over his shoulder for traffic before easing out onto the busy two-lane highway.

---

"No doubt he wants to do so more checking," Rico reassured him. "Probably trying to see if you really are the best bet for his money." He took the fishing pole from Sonny and let the line drop into the water.

"Well, if that's the case, he's going to have trouble finding someone who'll do it for less. This guy is talkin' about a lotta blow. Besides, he wants someone reliable and I think I just convinced him I'm the best he can get."

Rico chuckled. "You got that right! Besides, you're the only fool out there who acts as if he's invincible."

"True." Sonny grinned slightly as he looked over at his partner. "So what time you think we'll be hearin' from him, Rico?"

"Oh, I'd say you should be getting a call from this joker at least by tomorrow morning."

Sonny frowned. "Tomorrow! No way! I got Ortí on the hook for sure. He'll be calling tonight. In fact, I'm willing to bet the phone will be ringing within the hour."

"You got yourself a bet," Rico laughed, as he looked at his watch in the fading sunlight.

They sipped their beers in silence, enjoying this rare moment of peace together. The sun was just about to set behind the Miami skyline, rays bursting from the horizon like shooting flames. It was times like these that Crockett was glad he had changed his mind a while back and decided to rejoin the human race.

The portable phone chirped suddenly and Crockett's eyebrows shot upwards like two question marks.

"I wonder who this could be, Rico?" he teased in a singsong voice.

Rico frowned.

"Burnett!" Sonny barked into the receiver.

"Okay, Burnett. You passed."

"Ortíz!" Sonny grinned, holding out his palm to Rico. "Glad you didn't wait too long. I already got them lined up outside my door waiting for the chance to stuff my pockets with some hard earned currency!"

"Happy to see that business is good. But after this job, you won't need to work for those small time dealers anymore. This job is going to make you very rich."

"Well, good, Ortíz. I certainly hope so. I could use a little R and R. So, what's the arrangement?"

"Friday night, midnight. We'll meet down by the entrance ramp to the highway. Fuchs and Fifteenth. I'll be sitting in a dark blue van in a lot by Sturgis Brothers' Storage. Bring Fifty thousand in cash, in hundreds. I'll have the two keys."

Sonny cringed. Three days! He'd have to work fast to get that kind of money on such short notice. "Okay. I'll put out some calls. How do I reach you?"

"You don't. I reach you. But don't expect to hear from me before Friday, Burnett. Hopefully, you will not have trouble gathering together what you need. Remember, I am on a tight schedule and I have to move fast."

"Right. Okay. Friday night then."

"Oh, and Burnett. You're to come alone. If I see anyone along for the ride, the deal is off. That is the way I do business."

He didn't like the idea that this guy was manipulating the situation.

"I never travel alone. It isn't healthy," he rumbled. "You with the bodyguard should appreciate that."

"I also never do business with a fearful man."

"Oh yeah? How about a foolish one?"

"It's up to you, Burnett. I offer you an opportunity to sample some of the purest coke that has ever come into Southern Florida. A shipment that is worth millions! I don't have to deal with you at all, Señor. There are plenty of others out there who can offer me what I need."

Sonny felt he was close to sealing the deal but he knew from experience that if he insisted on this particular point, he just might come up empty handed.

"You're not making me happy, Señor." Sonny hesitated. "If I come alone, how do I know you're not going to rip me off and leave me lyin' in a ditch somewhere?"

Ortíz laughed softly. "Don't insult me, Burnett. I'm a businessman, not a thief. Remember, I want to make friends in Miami. I have done a lot of research to find you and I must say that from what you have told me so far, you have impressed me. But anyone else included in this deal will have to be tested the way you were and that will take too much time."

Sonny sighed, weary of the game already. "Okay, Ortíz."

"My driver, Felipe Cortez will be with me. And my right hand man, Julian."

"I see. I come alone and you bring an army."

"Julian is my business partner. He is very gentle, I assure you."

"And what about your boy King Kong? He doesn't seem like the business type to me."

"In my country, it is necessary to always have protection, if you want to live until a ripe old age. I am not comfortable enough in America to let old habits die."

The guy was not going to budge. Sonny wondered how Castillo was going to react to the idea of letting him go into this without backup.

"So, I guess I'll just have to trust you, then. I do insist on being allowed to carry my weapon of choice."

"Of course. If it makes you feel more secure, I have no objection."

The voice carried a hint of scorn that made Sonny's jaw set with anger.

"That's real generous of you, Ortíz. So, I look forward to doin' business together."

"As do I, Señor Burnett. Adiós until Friday night, my friend."

"I ain't no friend of yours, that's for sure," Sonny muttered as he clicked off the receiver and threw it off to the side.

"Hey, Crockett! Careful!" Rico yelled with short laugh. "Your phone almost landed in the drink! What's the deal? This guy playin' with your head or what?"

"I'm not sure, Rico. He's insisting I bring fifty thousand and that I come alone. Not exactly the trusting type, is he?"

"Forget it, Crockett. Too risky."

Sonny leaned against the railing and looked out at the bay. "It's only a prelim. He has lots more than two keys to play with. If I don't go along, we could lose him. Then, we'll have a lot more cleaning up to do when he turns to someone else and his shipment hits the streets."

"Sonny, no. You don't know enough about this guy."

"Castillo did the leg work. He seems legit."

"What if something goes wrong? You'll be outnumbered and on your own."

"I'll wear a wire and you and Stan can be nearby just in case."

Rico stared at him anxiously.

"Sonny. No. It's not worth it."

"I can't afford not to, Rico. I've already established contact. It would take too long to set up something else."

"Then introduce me as a buyer who insisted on meeting him before parting with my money."

"No," Sonny said, shaking his head. "Ortíz said if I show up with anyone, the deal's off. I have no way of reaching him, so the arrangement has to stand the way it is."

"Wire, huh," Rico muttered. "The whole thing sounds like suicide to me."

"Naw, Rico! I'll promise him the moon and he'll be drooling all over himself to get started. No way will he kill the guy who's gonna give him the golden egg."

"Good luck convincing Castillo. Not to mention Gina."

Sonny frowned. "She's a cop. She knows what this job is all about."

"That all went out the window when she married you, my friend. Now she sees danger on every street corner."

"Then she'll have to turn her head one more time, Rico. After this one, I'm out and then someone else can mop up the mess." He tossed the empty beer can into a bucket and glanced over at Rico. "Want another one, or shall we call it a night?"

"I've had enough. It's been a long day and you should get some sleep, Sonny. You'll need an early start if you're going to get that money together in time."

"Yeah, I know," he said softly, pushing the hatch open and climbing his way down to the inviting bed below.

ONE TREE HILL
From U2's JOSHUA TREE

We turn away to face the cold, enduring chill
As the day begs the night for mercy
Your sun so bright it leaves no shadows, only scars
Carved into stone on the face of earth
The moon is up and over One Tree Hill
We see the sun go down in your eyes

You ran like a river to the sea
Like a river to the sea

And in our world a heart of darkness, a fire zone
Where poets speak their hearts then bleed for it
Jara sang his song a weapon, in the hands of love
You know his blood still cries from the ground

It runs like a river to the sea
Like a river to the sea

I don't believe in painted roses or bleeding hearts
While bullets rape the night of the merciful
I'll see you again when the stars fall from the sky
And the moon has turned red over One Tree Hill

We run like a river to the sea
Like a river to the sea

1995

April 1

Sonny

Sonny was watching Jasper tape the last of the transmitter's delicate wiring to his chest. The shirt he had put on this morning was thin, but he was confident his jacket would hide the telltale bulk nicely.

"I still don't like it," Rico was saying. "You're going in there alone, and the nearest backup will be a block away."

"This again, Tubbs? Look, we've been through this a hundred times. Ortíz is skittish about meeting anyone else. I told you, it's just a nice, friendly get together between a dealer and a new player. He just wants me to test out a sample and bring a get-acquainted gift back to the buyer. Once I've placed the order and get a foot in the door, it's bound to lead to bigger and better things. This opportunity is too good to pass up."

Sonny patted the transmitter and grunted disapprovingly.

"Hey, Jasp. This thing workin'? Don't leave me hangin' out there."

"That's the beauty of that model, Crockett. No beeps or bleeps. This way, you don't have to pretend you have indigestion if they get suspicious."

Sonny grinned and reached for his jacket draped on the back of the conference room chair. "Good. I remember one assignment, I almost had my head blown off when some static came out of my back pocket."

This time, it was Jasper who cracked up. "Those old models were bad news. It's a wonder we didn't lose more guys than we did with those babies. Okay, then." He looked at Crockett once more and cocked his head to the side. "You're all set, Crockett. And try and take care of this one if ya don't mind. The last one you returned was mashed beyond recognition. They cost a bundle and I'm sick and tired of filling out the requisitions for new ones. You're killing my budget!"

"Like I had a choice," Sonny muttered. "That last guy we were watchin' got suspicious and rolled me down a flight of stairs until I bounced like a cork. Better for me that the bug got squashed instead of my head!"

Rico followed Sonny to his locker and watched Crockett strap on his ankle holster. "So, does Gina know the whole story?" he asked warily.

"Sure. In fact, she'll be waiting at the marina for me to call. We're supposed to go sailing tomorrow morning and I want to get an early start."

"And she doesn't have a problem with this?"

"Ah, well she did. That's why she insisted on being called before I went in and the minute I left the meet." Sonny pulled his pants leg down and looked over at his partner. "I understand Gina, but why are you so jumpy, Rico? We've done this kinda thing a million times. What's so different about this one?"

"It may seem like a simple meet to you, Sonny, but I read the bio on this guy too, you know. Ortíz has some pretty serious connections. I guess I'm just wondering if he's done some heavy checking up on you."

"If he's worth his salt, he'd better have," Sonny laughed. "But my cover's solid, so you have nothing to worry about."

"I don't know. I have a funny feeling about this one, Sonny. I can't explain it, but it doesn't feel right. And those calls..."

"I haven't had one of those calls in months. And besides, having "funny feelings" is supposed to be my specialty and right now my crystal ball is saying that this is gonna be a piece of cake. Relax partner. It'll be over before you know it."

"I hope so. Anyway, Stan has the van set up and we should both be in place before you get there. What's the signal if we need to move in?"

"Signal? You won't need a signal." Sonny said smiling playfully. "You'll be able to hear the whole thing, buddy. Nothing's gonna happen! I'm telling you, he trusts me! Now stop sweatin' so much! You're starting to make me nervous!"

Rico smiled uneasily as his partner winked an eye and turned to leave.

"Later, Rico," Sonny shouted as he slung his jacket over his shoulder.

"Yeah. Later," Rico answered, his face tight with concern.

---

The tape that secured the transmitter to his chest itched like hell. He hated wearing a wire on bare skin since it always left his chest raw for weeks.

"Damn, it's eleven fifteen already," he muttered, glancing at his watch. "And I forgot to call Gina."

The office was deserted except for the janitor who was whistling tunelessly as he turned over the wastepaper baskets into the huge bin he was pulling along behind him.

"Hey Crockett!" he shouted merrily. "You plannin' to spend the night, or what?"

"Naw, Rick. Got a late date." Sonny grinned mischievously over at Rick, holding the phone against his ear and listening impatiently to its insistent ringing.

"Hello?"

He thought she sounded anxious.

"Hey. It's me," he said softly.

"Good thing you remembered to call, Sonny. I was beginning to wonder if you had already left."

"I'm about to. Baby okay?"

"Yeah. Fine. Leaving her there is never a problem. She's loves Aunt Rose."

"Good. This weekend's been a long time coming. So get some rest and I'll be back to the boat to catch some shuteye with you real soon."

"Call me when it's over, Sonny. Please. I don't know why, but I'm really worried about this one."

"It'll be okay, Gina. I promise. I told you, tonight is just the prelim. I'm meeting the bozos at midnight and after an hour or two, I'll be outta there. Rico and Stan the promised to take care of the paperwork. And since the whole thing is happening only five minutes or so from the marina, I should probably see you about two, two-thirty the latest."

He could tell she still wasn't happy.

"Be careful, Sonny. Please. I love you."

"Love you too, beautiful," he whispered with a smile.

---

The white sports car was hugging the road easing into a sharp curve when suddenly he was able to see the St.Vitus moored in the distance. The Miami skyline outlined the scene, bright lights cascading into the bay like an electric waterfall. The magical sight never failed to mesmerize him, no matter how many times he saw it.

Gina had probably gotten there by now. The thought of sailing off with her in the morning was a welcome distraction from the upcoming meet with Ortíz. The clock on the dashboard told him it was already eleven fifty.

"Eleven fifty. Almost post time," he thought.

The traffic signal at the upcoming intersection turned red, and Sonny slowed down, listening to the powerful engine purr impatiently while he waited for the light to change.

He had been told to meet Ortíz at a place called Sturgis Brothers Storage, near the highway underpass. Not the best part of town, but he understood why it had been chosen. Since the area consisted mostly of warehouses and garbage-strewed lots, it practically guaranteed that it'd be deserted at this hour.

The light changed and he hit the accelerator. As he approached the curve in the road that led to the overpass, he glanced casually down one of the darkened alleyways and saw the familiar green surveillance van hiding in the shadows.

Gradually, he slowed down.

"I'm at the corner, Stan. Blink if you see me."

The van's headlights clicked on and off.

He smiled, comfortable with the knowledge that the two men were in position with their headsets on, ready to "rock and roll".

A little further on, he saw Ortíz's dark blue van parked in front of the delivery doors of a warehouse. The sign above the metal garage door read:

STURGIS BROTHERS STORAGE

OFFICE HOURS 8AM TO 5PM

CALL 772-3576

Pulling over, he leaned back and relaxed, intent on studying the situation before making his move.

There was no activity around the van and the vehicle itself looked empty.

No lights on in the building, either. No signs of life in the entire vicinity.

Impulsive as he was, Sonny was experienced enough to know that carelessness in this business could be lethal. Negotiations had been rushed and Sonny was mad at himself for letting Ortíz manipulate the terms to his advantage. There was something about this set up he did not like, and that uncertainty was making him restless.

Still there was nothing concrete Sonny had to back up his suspicions, just that inner radar buzzing in his head.

Frustrated, he looked at the warehouse again and finally dismissed his worries with a sigh.

"Ah, shit. Might as well get this over with," he muttered to himself.

Pulling the keys out of the ignition, he climbed out of the car, dragging the case of money along with him.

The only streetlight that worked was already flickering on and off with a loud sizzle of escaping current. Sonny stood by the car for a moment until his eyes got accustom to the dim light.

Preliminary meets were a necessary evil in the drug seller's world, but Sonny found them tedious. He wanted to collar the bastards and get his hands on the dope as soon as he saw it. It took years for him to hone his act of cool disinterest...years of forcing himself to swallow his anger and disgust. The process had taken a tremendous toll on his spirit and deep down inside, he knew, he had finally had enough.

One more assignment.

That was what he had promised himself. And, it was what he had promised Gina. Living in the vice cop's world of corruption could never coincide with this new life he had made for himself. Leaving the squad had been the right decision.

He approached the van and hit the side twice as he had been instructed to do. There was a rustle inside and the back door opened. A small bearded man emerged and cocked his head to the side with a grin.

"Señor Burnett, welcome. I am Julian," he said pleasantly. "Please, come aboard."

Sonny hesitated.

"Where's Ortíz?"

"Oh, he should be here any minute," Julian said reassuringly. "Señor Ortíz was detained but it was unavoidable. He asked me to tell you he apologizes and that he will be along within the hour."

Sonny had been involved with the drug world long enough to recognize that Ortíz was on a power trip. Arriving late was his way of announcing that he would be the one who established the rules. Annoyed, he looked at his watch and raised his eyebrows in feigned surprise.

"It is now twelve fifteen, Jooleean," he jeered. "Fifteen more minutes, and I am history."

"He'll be here. Come inside, please. The police cruisers come through here every once in a while and you don't want to have to answer a lot of questions if they see you standing there, Señor."

Sonny glanced into the back of the truck. He would rather have conducted business out in the open, but what the hell. Content that things were going according to plan, Sonny decided to let them play their little game. He climbed inside the truck and sat down on one of the crates along the side, making sure he was facing the two men.

Felipe Cortez was sprawled in a chair, an automatic pistol resting in his lap. His eyes were barely open, but Sonny could tell he was being watched closely.

"Slumming tonight, Cortez?" he asked curiously.

The big man stirred and then smiled lazily. "I am not the only man who guards Señor Ortíz. Tonight, he is with another driver."

Julian closed the door and they sat there together, waiting in the gloom. Very little air was circulating in the closed space, and Sonny felt the sweat begin to trickle down his back. Julian reached over into a cooler and offered him a beer.

"No thanks," Sonny sighed.

He could feel Cortez's eyes staring at his shirt and probing the contours of his jacket.

"It's pretty hot, Burnett," Cortez commented dryly. "Why don't you take off the coat and be comfortable."

It was an odd thing to say. Sonny frowned. He was definitely being baited.

"I'm comfortable enough," he said casually.

Sonny looked down at his watch again, his jaw working with anger.

"It's almost one. What's going on?"

"I told you. He'll be here, Burnett."

Suddenly, sounds of an idling engine drifted through the silence and Sonny felt his pulse quicken with anticipation.

The door jerked open and Ortíz climbed up the step into the back of the van.

"Burnett," he nodded.

"You're late!" Sonny muttered.

"I had important business that could not be put off."

"So I guess you're saying this isn't important?"

Ortíz smiled.

"On the contrary. Burnett. Let me assure you, you are number one on my list tonight."

Sonny felt his stomach tighten.

"Then prove it, Ortíz. Let me test a sample and we'll see just how pure it is."

Ortíz's eyes narrowed as he looked at Sonny.

"Did you bring the good faith money?"

"Yeah. It's all here."

Sonny grinned as he pulled up the case he had brought and placed it in front of Ortíz. He snapped the locks open and opened the lid, displaying the crisp new bills, in neatly wrapped rows, side by side.

"That should make them happy in Bo-go-ta!" he said jauntily.

Ortíz smiled and gave a signal to Cortez. The big man stood and reaching up to a shelf behind Sonny, he brought down a cardboard shoebox, handing it to Ortíz.

Sonny had already fished out his penknife and the small glass tube he used to test drugs for purity. He could run the test with his eyes closed he had done it so many times.

Ortíz opened the box and handed Sonny a plastic bag full of white powder. "It is very pure, Señor. The best I've ever seen. Well worth the price."

"We'll see," Sonny answered quietly. He slit an opening in the bag and eased out a small amount of the powder, tapping it into the tube. He shook it quickly and waited for the chemical reaction.

All at once, his eyebrows raised and he smiled appreciatively.

"Very nice, Ortíz. Now I'm impressed."

"So, before we agree on the number of keys, Burnett, tell me again about your backing for the remainder of the shipment."

"You sound like you don't trust me."

"I just need to make sure your resources are genuine before I put my reputation on the line. You must understand. I have to answer to a very important man, Señor. Call it insurance if you like. Insurance of payment."

Sonny shot him a look.

"You'll get your money."

"Humor me, Burnett."

It irked Sonny to have to give Ortíz anything, but at this point, it was probably a good idea to offer something.

"Once I assure my people that the shipment is primo, they'll give me the order. They've already agreed on the price, so what's the problem?"

Ortíz looked down at his hands.

"I would have thought that your "people" would have empowered you to make the decision about the order now, Burnett. Why all this back and forth negotiating? My boss will not like it. It wastes too much time."

"It's the way I do business, Ortíz. He can take it or leave it."

"Relax, relax. I just don't like all this wasted effort, that's all. So. We have a deal, then?"

"Yeah. You keep the money and I take the sample and the two keys. You'll hear from me in a couple of days."

Sonny imagined the tapes turning in the surveillance van as he spoke. The conversation they were having was golden. The only thing missing was the name of this new guy Ortíz just mentioned. This bit of information was vital if they were going to knock out this new group once and for all. If he was lucky, Ortíz would slip and then Sonny would discover the identity of a more important layer of authority existing within the organization.

"When do I get to meet this top banana?" he asked cautiously.

Ortíz laughed. "As a matter of fact, I'm expecting him to come along any minute. He wanted to meet you as well."

The news surprised him, but he took it in stride.

"Is that so?" Sonny looked at his watch. "He'd better hurry. I think I've waited around here long enough! When do you think he'll make his grand entrance?"

"Like I said, Burnett. Any minute."

"Okay, while we're waiting, how about a name?"

"He will tell you himself. That's his way, you see. Meanwhile, you and I should try to keep cool. How about a drink? I insist we have a toast to celebrate our new business arrangement. Unfortunately, I did not bring champagne, but I believe Cortez has beer."

The heat in the van was unbearable and already he was suffocating from the stench of unwashed bodies. At that, moment, a cold beer was beginning to sound most welcome.

"Yeah. Okay, I could use one, I guess."

Julian had lined up four cups on the shelf behind Sonny and was pouring cold beer into each one waiting a moment while the foam bubbled to the top.

"A celebration, Señor!" Ortíz said with a grin. His teeth were so white they looked almost irridescent in the shadows. Taking a plastic cup from Julian, he handed it to Sonny and raised his own in a toast.

"To the success of our business relationship!" he said grandly.

Sonny stared back at the three men, trying to read their expressions. Something in their faces...

He lifted his glass and nodded while the other men drank heartily.

"You're not drinking. Something wrong Burnett?" Ortíz asked casually.

Sonny hesitated.

"Come, Señor. It is insulting to the host not to accept his offer of hospitality."

Irritated, Sonny brought the cup to his lips and began to drink. It was ice-cold and it quenched his thirst at first but as he drained the cup he began to notice a strange, bitter aftertaste.

His eyes widened as his throat began to burn.

"Wha..."

Despite Cortez's bulk, the man rose quickly and moved behind Sonny, wrapping an arm around his neck, and clamping a large meaty hand over Sonny's mouth before he could utter a sound.

Sonny dug his fingers into the muscular arm, trying desperately to pull free. His windpipe was being crushed, but he still managed to gurgle harshly, praying the hidden mike would pick up the struggle. The back door of the van flew open and he looked over hopefully, expecting to see his backup coming to the rescue. He was sorely disappointed.

A well-dressed man in a business suit was climbing into the truck and when Sonny saw his face, he froze.

It was Carlos Pedrosa.

The man did not waste time. Without a word, he snapped his fingers and the truck's engine begin to hum. The driver backed out of the parking lot, made a three-corner turn and then applied the brakes suddenly. Then, with the sickening sound of grinding gears, he stepped hard on the accelerator, speeding off toward the highway.

Now Sonny struggled in earnest, arching his back and kicking his feet out at anything he could reach but Cortez responded by tightened his hold, cutting off Sonny's air supply enough to force him to stop. He closed his eyes as everything began to spin.

Pedrosa reached over and tore Sonny's shirt down the front, exposing the wires taped to his chest. Patting Sonny's jacket, he found the microphone under the lapel and yanking it away, threw it to the floor, grinding it into pieces beneath his heel.

Crockett's heart sank. Now he understood why things had gone so smoothly. The deal had been a trap, planned and orchestrated from the very beginning by Carlos Pedrosa. His stomach lurched as the van took a corner on two wheels, the tires squealing in protest.

"Ah, Señor. I am happy to see you again," Pedrosa said, reaching under Sonny's jacket to relieve him of his weapon. "And I know you are happy to see me." His hands continued to travel down Sonny's right leg until he found the ankle holster and he removed the backup gun, grunting with satisfaction.

Sonny could tell the drug they had slipped him was taking effect as numbness begun to travel quickly from his feet and up into his legs. Within minutes, he lost control and his body went limp. Cortez chuckled ominously in his ear and when the big man loosened his grip, Sonny slid onto the floor of the van, landing with a loud thump.

"Tie him," he heard Pedrosa snarl.

Then they pulled his arms behind his back and he felt them bind his wrists together as he reluctantly gave in to the blackness.

April 1995

Rico

Rico was frantic, watching the traffic flow slow to a trickle and realizing they were about to get caught up in a huge bottleneck up ahead.

"Damn it, Stan! Now what?" he shouted.

He was sure he had seen the delivery van head for the highway ramp when it took off, but there was no sign of them on the major roadway anywhere and now he was not so sure.

"Shit, Rico. I saw them, too. Maybe they got off at one of the exits back there."

"I doubt it. We would have seen them."

"Well then, they never got on the highway. Maybe they doubled back through one of those alleyways. I kind of lost sight of them after that last turn."

"God! I was sure they went for the highway."

The desperation in Rico's voice made Stan's mouth run dry and he swallowed hard.

"Yeah. I was too," he muttered.

"Do we go back? Keep going? See if you can get any remaining signal from that damn bug!"

Stan sighed. He would have tried anything at this point, but he knew the bug was history. Just the same, he fumbled with the radio dials just to make Rico happy.

"It's dead, Rico. They must have found it and destroyed it. We're not going to get a peep, I'm afraid."

"Great." Rico's voice cracked with emotion and Stan put his hand on his shoulder.

"I say we go back. If they fooled us into going after a phantom truck, that means they never left the area. At least I hope that's what it means."

"Yeah. I guess that's as good a plan as any."

Rico braked as he approached the next exit and swerved in front of a car, cutting it off and almost causing a nasty pileup. Angry horns blasted but he was beyond caring. Putting his foot to the floor, he pushed the van to the limit, hitting the exit ramp at 90 miles per hour.

"Take the service road back," Stan told him. "Run the red lights if you have to." Stan took out the bubble and slapped in onto the dash. Immediately, it began to flash a beacon of warning to anyone unlucky enough to get in his way.

It was late and the traffic was light. Rico sped along fearlessly, praying he would catch a break. The radio crackled to life.

"What's going on?" Castillo voice asked calmly.

"No sign of them, Lieutenant. We saw them head toward the highway, and then they disappeared. We went two exits and now we're going back on the service road. We think they gave us the slip and doubled back. It's the only answer we can come up with."

"I'll meet you there." Castillo signed off abruptly.

"What about Gina?" Stan asked Rico.

"For God's sake, don't call her yet. She'll have an accident trying to get over here. We can't tell her anything at this point, anyway."

Rico hated to hide anything from Gina, but after losing the delivery van, he felt himself drowning in guilt. How could he ever face her if anything happened to Sonny?

God, how could he ever face himself?

"What time is it?" Rico asked Stan.

"Almost three. We lost sight of them about an hour ago."

That was not good. One hour was way too long to be out of touch with an undercover cop on an operation like this. Rico eyes swept the road praying for a miracle.

They came to the warehouse lot and stopped, but the area was deserted. Castillo's car turned the corner suddenly, and he was standing there at the van window before they could open the door.

"Highway Patrol has been alerted," he told them. "They're getting a helicopter ready."

"That's good. I guess." Rico put his head in his hands. "I don't get it, Lieutenant. They were talking together in the van one minute, offering Sonny a beer and then, silence. By the time I realized the truck's motor was running, it was already too late."

"Rico. Think about it. The way it went. It was planned this way from the beginning?"

Rico looked at Marty and waited for an explanation.

"It looks like they knew he was a cop. They overpowered him when he least expected it, and figuring he might be wearing a bug, they probably gagged him as well. There was nothing we could have done to prevent it. They had the element of surprise."

"I should have gone with him! I told him this felt wrong!"

"Sonny played it the way he saw it. They didn't know you and if you had gone, it might have blown the deal."

Castillo looked over at the spot where the Ortíz's van had been parked. "If anyone should be regretting this whole mess, it should be me."

"Sonny was not going to take no for an answer. He wanted to set this guy up bad. We all tried to talk him out of it. Even Gina tried."

"Yeah. But I had the authority to pull him off."

"It was just supposed to be a preliminary, Lieutenant. At least that's what Sonny thought. Now, I'm not so sure. If they suspected he was a cop, then why didn't they just tell him they weren't interested from the beginning? They let it get this far for a reason."

"A trap?"

"Yeah, maybe. Something's outta whack!"

Rico opened the door and jumped down to the ground and stood beside him.

"I'm going to start walking around here. Maybe they brought him to another warehouse, or something. Stan could drive around in the other direction and keep his eyes open for anything suspicious.

"Okay. Keep the radio open. I'll report on the chopper's activities," Marty said as he turned to go back to his car.

"Right." He looked up at Stan, still waiting in the van.

"You take the northern most grid, and I'll zig zag through these streets. They disappeared quickly, so they must be hiding out somewhere near here. Listen for my signal and be ready to come out with your guns blasting.

"Easy, Rico, hold it together, man. We'll find him."

"Just keep thinking like that, my friend. It's a lot more hopeful than what's going on in my head."

Stan gave him a thumbs-up and peeled off in the direction of his appointed rounds.

April 1995

Gina

Usually, the gentle rocking of the St. Vitus soothed her to sleep, but tonight she found it irritating. Already it was two o'clock and Sonny hadn't called back yet. The anxiety was making her restless.

"Maybe some tea," she thought, moving toward the galley stove.

Trying not to let her imagination run away with her, she stood by the sink, watching the water from the faucet fill the glass kettle.

"This is stupid!" she berated herself. "He'll call! Just give it more time!"

Just because everything was going so well in their lives did not mean that something bad was going to come along to spoil it!

She sighed as she took a mug down from the cupboard, at the same time reaching for a teabag from the little wooden box resting by the sugar bowl. She turned on the electric burner and sat on the bunk to wait for the water to boil.

From that point on, she was determined to dwell on more pleasant things, like the happiness she had to look forward to when Sonny finally retired from Vice.

She thought back to the other day when her cousin Anna had come to visit her. The young girl was pregnant with her first child and due to deliver in a few days. Gina had sat there watching Anna sit back on the couch, doing her best to try and get comfortable. Emily had fallen asleep in Gina's lap while they had been talking; her little head nestled against her mother's breast. Then Gina remembered how surprised she had been to feel a pang of envy as she envisioned the moment after Anna delivered her baby and the newborn would be placed in her arms.

Sonny had hinted he wanted another child and now that he was taking on a job that had more normal hours, maybe the time was right. But was she ready to accept the idea that a second baby would probably mean the end of her own career?

Career! What career?

The police department wasn't the most enlightened place for a woman to advance, even in this day and age of supposed equal opportunity. She was sick of the same old assignments, and the chance to get ahead would only come if she could take a test and beat out the stiff competition from the "good ole boys' club" and all their connections.

Oh sure, she could always cry foul if she got a high enough score and could prove she had been passed over. But would she want to be in a leadership role under those conditions? Would she be able to demand respect from fellow officers who might think she got the job simply because she filled some sort of required quota?

No, that idea did not appeal to her at all.

And lately, she found that watching Emily grow was something special that seemed to fill her every waking moment with new challenges. At first, she fought against this laid back existence, imagining herself drying up and blowing away like a dead leaf in the wind. But gradually, she realized she had become energized with enthusiasm, reading everything she could get her hands on about child development and enjoying her little girl's fun loving nature and winsome personality.

"This isn't such a bad life, after all!" she finally admitted to Trudy. "Only don't tell Sonny just yet. He thinks I'm still mad at him for asking me to butt out of the Castaneda case last year!"

Trudy had thought all this change in her friends was pretty funny.

"I don't even recognize you and Sonny anymore! This is really a riot!"

"Stop it and don't knock it 'til you try it!"

"No way, girl. I have big plans. In fact, I intend to start studying this summer for the law school entrance exams!"

The announcement had not surprised Gina all that much. She knew that Trudy was getting restless and that her biggest regret was not continuing on to graduate school after getting her bachelor's degree in criminal justice two years ago.

"That's great! I wish you luck!"

"Thanks. Castillo has been encouraging me, actually"

"He has?" Gina was surprised at another bit of evidence that Lieutenant Castillo was watching out for other things besides his peoples' safety and welfare out on the streets.

"Yeah. He got me an interview with the Dean of one of the top law schools in Tallahassee. The guy looked at my grades and thinks I have a good chance of getting in. I don't think I could even have gotten a foot in the door if it hadn't been for the lieutenant. Now all I have to do is do well on the test and I'll have a shot."

"Good luck. I'll miss you, but I'm happy for you, hon," Gina had said wistfully.

But the regret had passed quickly when she thought of Sonny and how he was about to take up his new teaching position. Now, he'd be home more often, giving them a chance to be together and allowing him the opportunity to play a bigger role in his child's life. The idea of helping him navigate through these "uncharted waters" frightened her a little. It would be a new world for them both and she was smart enough to realize that it wouldn't always be smooth sailing, especially with a man like Sonny.

But he seemed happier than she had ever seen him and she was determined to prove to him and to the world that she was the one who was going to keep him that way.

His last phone call had come just a little after eleven. He had asked about the baby, and when she had assured him Emily was in good hands with Aunt Rose, he told her how much he was looking forward to their weekend alone. Then, she'd told him about her worries and he'd assured he had everything under control.

"It'll be okay, Gina. I promise." he told her. "This is just a prelim. I'm meeting these bozos at midnight and after an hour or two, I'll be outta there."

She glanced at the clock again and saw that it was already two-thirty. Another half an hour and come and gone.

She knew he was good at his job, but that still didn't reassure her. She also knew the kind of people he was up against and her familiarity with this type of assignment was enough to destroy any possibility of peace of mind until she saw him back home again with her own two eyes.

Picking up her mug of steaming tea, she leaned over to the small radio Sonny kept on the kitchen counter and turned it to a station that played soft music, hoping that would sooth away the painful knot in her stomach. Then, she curled up on the upholstered chair and closed her eyes, content to listen and doze, aware that sleep would only tease her as long as he continued to remain out of touch.

April 1995

Sonny

Sonny shuddered while watching Pedrosa examine his revolver in the bright fluorescent light. Cortez was in the front of the van, catching a quick nap, while Ortíz paced a short distance away.

He was lying face down on the hard concrete, his head pounding, and he could tell from the bile burning the back of his throat, that he was about to lose whatever was left in his churning stomach.

"The drug should be wearing off by now," he heard someone say.

"It had better. It's getting late and we have a plane to catch. I want him conscious before we leave so that he knows why he's going to die."

The words hit him hard.

"This will bring down a lot of heat, Carlos," Ortíz was saying worriedly. "I hope you're prepared for what's in store. Especially when it comes to Castillo. He won't let this go unpunished."

"That is my problem." Pedrosa leaned over and nudged Sonny's side with his boot.

"I think maybe you gave him too much, Cortez. You'd better pray he comes to soon."

The big man looked over at Sonny anxiously.

"It's okay. The drug worked it's magic, that's all."

Sonny swallowed hard, trying to control the overwhelming nausea. He'd had plenty of hangovers in his day, and he could tell that this one was going to be a beauty. Turning on his side, he vomited violently.

"He's out of it now," Cortez said. The relief in his voice was obvious.

"What time is it?" Pedrosa was asking.

"Four-thirty. The plane leaves at seven."

"Get him up."

Cortez yanked Sonny to his feet and he threw up again.

"Ayiee!" Pedrosa cried, turning his head away. "Clean him up before I get sick myself."

They threw water in his face and he gasped for air. Gradually, his coughing subsided and he opened his eyes, squinting against the harsh lights that illuminated the large cavern-like space.

From what he could tell, it looked as if he had been brought to a garage or warehouse, but all that seemed to be stored there was a few cardboard boxes and several barrels lined up against the cold white walls. The high windows were covered with burlap or tarp that would have blocked anyone's view from the outside.

He closed his eyes for a moment and tried to catch his breath.

Think Crockett. Think!

"It's time. Time to end your miserable life, my friend," he heard Pedrosa say.

Sonny picked up his head and glared back.

"I guess it's easy to be tough when your enemy is defenseless," he muttered bitterly.

Pedrosa was silent, and Sonny knew he had hit a nerve.

"Untie him," Pedrosa ordered coldly.

Someone loosened the ropes and blood rushed into his hands, making them itch and burn as the circulation returned. He rubbed his wrists gingerly.

"Catching you off guard was not easy, Señor. You are clever and you and your team made the game very interesting. But, like all cops, you have weaknesses that I was able to use against you."

"Really. And what exactly was it that made me so vulnerable?"

"For one, you care too much about what happens on the streets of Miami. Every time you tried to distance yourself, your conscience got in the way. That made you easy to manipulate."

He smiled coldly. "So, Señor. I hear you were planning to leave your position as an undercover cop...soon...in fact, right after this assignment. Isn't that so, my friend?"

Sonny looked up with surprise.

"Yes, you see, I have been following your career with great interest for the last year now. I have many sources and they have kept me well informed." Pedrosa laughed with amusement. "When I heard you were transferring from Vice, I had to work fast. I knew you would not be able to resist this deal. And you did not disappoint me."

Pedrosa had been leaning against the door of the van and now he stood, drawing himself up to his full height. He was powerfully built man, and Sonny had no doubt that he instilled fear in many.

"And of course, we know you are married again." He was watching Sonny carefully. "And, that you and your wife have a child."

Sonny's eyes widened and he lunged toward Pedrosa almost managing to grab him before Cortez pulled him back. His knees buckled and he groaned as the weight of his body pulled against his arm sockets.

"You'll never get near them!" he shouted.

"Don't underestimate me again, Señor. I have ways, I assure you. Of course, you won't be around to see how it all turns out."

"Don't you dare touch them!" he choked. It was almost a sob.

"You see? You are so predictable. Very foolish, Señor! You are in no position to threaten me! In fact, your despair gives me strength! Best to keep your feelings to yourself, don't you think?"

Pedrosa was right. He was in control for now. And from the way things looked, Sonny knew in his heart he was not going to be around to protect Gina and Emily.

"I planned for this night for a long time," Pedrosa boasted. "I watched you make arrests. Studied how you operated. Then I sent out my people to act as informants. You are good at what you do. You managed to weed out most of the phonies. But there was one who was able to worm his way into your confidence. His reports to me were invaluable.

It was not hard to realize who might have leaked information to Pedrosa.

Sonny thought about Danny Santiago, the young drug addict he had tried to help only a few months ago. The boy had been only sixteen and already fighting the world. Even so, Sonny had seen potential for redemption and he had gone way out on a limb for this one. He and Gina had found a good rehab program for the kid, and then they got him a job.

Sonny had even brought him out fishing with him once or twice.

But someone had gotten to Danny...someone who had the power to manipulate with terror.

Danny had obviously kept his eyes and ears open, learning what he could about Crockett and the OCB. Sonny remembered how he had been touched when the kid asked for a picture of Gina. Just a schoolboy crush, he had told himself.

"You don't mind, do you Crockett?" he asked. "I know she's your lady and all, but I like classy women. Just a pinup, I promise. I would never move in on her or anything. That would be low. Very low."

"Knock it off, buddy," Sonny answered playfully. "Gina's off limits! Now, get your sneakers on and I'll take you to work."

Sonny had always been careful not to reveal too much of his personal life to the people on the street. It was essential that he preserve his cover and he never knew how one little indiscretion would lead a major player to his own front door.

Like now.

But he had forgotten all about the picnic in the park.

Danny had been cycling by after a delivery and snapped a picture of Gina and Sonny sitting on a blanket together. It wasn't hard to see that Gina was pregnant. All Danny had to do was show the picture to Pedrosa and everything fell into place.

And Danny knew Crockett was thinking about teaching at the Academy. That was one thing that Sonny did tell the kid about himself. He didn't see the harm, and he wanted Danny to know he would still be there for him even though he might not be active on the streets anymore.

The night on the pier, Crockett learned the awful truth. But he also learned Pedrosa had blackmailed the kid into cooperating by keeping Danny's brother hostage on his yacht. The deal had been obvious: Get Pedrosa the inside story on Crockett and your brother goes free.

But Danny hadn't given in entirely to Pedrosa's threats. He had tried to trip up Castaneda and was still fighting hard to pull it off when the bullet struck him down.

Sonny remembered feeling the young life slip away as he held the boy tightly in his arms.

"I'm sorry, Sonny," Danny had said, gasping for breath. "I screwed up. And I think I hurt you bad."

Now, the meaning of his last words was clear. No matter how hard he had tried to set things right, Danny knew he had sealed Crockett's doom when he sold his soul to Pedrosa.

"You almost destroyed my chances in Miami, Crockett," Pedrosa said. "You cost me time and money. Because of you, I lost my people's respect. So now, they must see how swiftly I can strike. They will understand what happens to someone who crosses me."

"My unit will find you," Sonny promised.

"I don't think they will, Señor. As you have already witnessed, I have been known to vanish without a trace. You have been unable to touch me, and yet I have been very much a presence in your city. After I have killed you, I will wait for a while. And then, I will return to the streets, stronger...and wiser than ever!"

Pedrosa moved closer to Sonny and looked into his eyes.

"You and Castillo have done a lot of damage." He lowered his voice to a vicious whisper. "...so now it is my right to watch you suffer."

Sonny felt a tightening in the back of his throat but said nothing.

"On your knees," Pedrosa ordered.

Sonny stared back at him; his smile like ice.

"Fuck you," he answered calmly.

Pedrosa signaled to Cortez once more, and Sonny stiffened as he felt the barrel of a gun jabbing his temple.

"Kneel!" the big man snarled.

"Not my style, Pedrosa," Sonny retorted. His heart was hammering, but he managed to give them a lopsided grin. Pedrosa lashed out, hitting him hard in the mouth. Sonny wiped the blood from his lower lip and looked up, grinning.

"Now who's predictable?" he asked softly.

Pedrosa hit him again, and this time, Sonny sank to his knees. When he stood back up, Pedrosa sighed.

"If that is how you want it, Crockett."

Punches fell on him like battering rams, but Crockett refused to give in. After the seventh hit, he still remained standing in front of Pedrosa, swaying slightly but forcing a smile as he braced himself for the next assault.

Pedrosa shook his bleeding hand in the air; glaring at Sonny with fury in his eyes, and Sonny sensed the beating was over. It was his small moment of triumph.

Furious, Pedrosa snapped his fingers and a moment later, Cortez slammed his pistol against the side of Sonny's head. Putting out his hands to break his fall, he sank to one knee and then keeled over onto his side. He grit his teeth as a loud clanging sound reverberated in his skull and he swallowed hard against the returning nausea.

The fluorescent lights on the warehouse ceiling blinded him and shutting his eyes, against the glare, he suddenly envisioned Gina's face, realizing with a jolt that this might be the last time he would be able to hold her image in his mind. He dwelt on her sweet smile and sparkling eyes. The scent of lavender that she always wore was suddenly everywhere as he imagined her lips pressing against his bruised and battered mouth.

He could almost hear her whisper his name.

She seemed so real, so close. He reached out as if to touch her, but all he met was the empty air.

Cortez pulled him back up from under his arms and forced him onto his knees.

"This is how I want to remember you," Pedrosa said coldly.

Sonny felt a chill pass through him.

And then...he saw Emily.

She was in his arms, her eyes watching him over a bottle and telling him not to worry or be afraid. It soothed him and gave him comfort. He concentrated on her face and somehow thought he could even smell her sweet baby scent. Tears began to go down his face and his body began to tremble.

Then he heard Pedrosa cock the thirty-eight and he held his breath, waiting fearfully for the impact of the bullet.

"I love you," he whispered to his little girl as he closed his eyes.

The explosion was loud, and the first sensation he felt was the intense pressure in his ears from the percussion of the shot. Then he gasped as excruciating pain pierced his right shoulder.

The gun went off again, and this time, a searing heat went racing through his belly. He crumpled to the cement, curling up into a ball in a desperate attempt to protect vital organs.

"Don't die too quickly," Pedrosa hissed, and he fired another bullet into Sonny's lower leg, tearing through tissue and shattering the bone.

Sonny grabbed his leg, screaming in agony.

"Bastard," he gasped. Summoning all his strength, he managed to look up at Pedrosa, defiance dancing in his eyes. Pedrosa responded by kicking him hard in the side.

"Your wounds are serious, Señor, but not enough to kill you right away," Pedrosa told him. "You'll bleed plenty, and by the time they find you, it will be too late."

A car door slammed in the distance and Sonny heard footsteps scratching across the cement.

"We're ready, Señor Pedrosa. It is late. We need to get to the airport quickly."

"Make sure the truck is wiped down thoroughly. I don't want to hand any evidence to the authorities this time!"

"Si, Señor Pedrosa." the voice answered nervously.

Pedrosa turned his attention back to Sonny.

"Adiós, Crockett. I must admit, these last few months I have enjoyed this intriguing battle of wits. I will miss the challenge." He locked his fingers in Sonny's hair and yanked his head back, surprised when the cop struggled fiercely to pull away.

"Your will is very strong. Three bullets have ripped you apart and yet you are still fighting." Pedrosa sighed. "I wish I could stay here for a while. Of all the men I have watched die, your performance has been the most magnificent of them all!"

He released Sonny's hair, watching Sonny's head fall back slowly.

"Adiós, Crockett," he repeated under his breath. Sonny was sure he heard regret in the assassin's tone.

"Burn in...Hell...Pedrosa," he grinned back, his eyes heavy with pain.

And then, the contorted image of Pedrosa's face swirled into the darkness as Sonny slipped away into the comfort of oblivion.

April 1995

Rico and Sonny

Trying to cover as much territory as they could, patrols scattered, watching for any sign of life in the remnants of a dying neighborhood but the dark streets mocked them with a cruel silence. By six am, they had found nothing and Rico was going out of his mind with worry. After walking past the same lot full of trash and abandoned cars for a second time, he realized he must have been going around in circles.

Pausing for a moment, he sat down on the curb. His body ached from exhaustion and the thought that he had let his partner down was making him sick at heart.

"Rico!"

The walkie-talkie in his hand had suddenly come to life.

"Stan! Anything?"

"Ah...Yeah...I think so. The lieutenant says someone reported finding a guy...wounded. Down by the docks. He wants us to meet him by the fish market right away. Where are you?"

Rico looked up at the street sign. "Fifteenth and Fuchs. I'm on the corner."

"I'm coming to get you. Hold tight."

---

Sonny had managed to drag himself to the side door of the warehouse that led out onto the deserted parking lot. It was a slow, painful process, but it was better than letting Pedrosa win.

And better than dying alone in the dark.

He lay on the pavement outside and waited, praying someone would come along, but only his heavy breathing stirred the silence.

Maybe if he got closer to the street.

Digging his fingers into the gravel he began crawling again but when he got as far as the streetlight by the curb, he gave up. He could go no further. He floated in and out of consciousness for a while and then snapped back suddenly when he felt someone going through his pockets.

"Help me!" he called out weakly, "I'm a cop!"

Whoever it was, stopped and then Sonny heard the sound of running footsteps.

"That was stupid," he thought. "I probably scared the guy away."

He could hear the sounds of traffic on the highway overpass. Heavy trucks rumbled along and then a siren blared in the distance but then faded away, as if the vehicle was speeding away from him.

He was going to have to face it. His chances for surviving this were not good.

"God, why?" he moaned, choking with bitterness. "I paid my dues a million times over! I don't get it! Why now?"

Now...when everything was going my way.

His eyes closed against the tears.

"We were happy...we had a life...we...we had plans! And now it's over? Just like that...you're telling me it's all being taken away?"

I don't get it!

Intense sorrow swept over him and he bit down hard on his bottom lip to keep from crying out.

Tires crunched loudly on loose gravel and he heard several car doors burst open and slam shut in quick succession.

"Did you call an ambulance?" someone asked.

"No. I just called 911 but then my cell phone died. I would have run for a payphone, but when I saw his badge in his pocket, I was afraid to leave him alone. This isn't the best of neighborhoods."

"You did the right thing, buddy. Thanks. Wait right over there, and don't leave. We'll need a statement."

Footsteps came closer.

"It's him, call it in!�

He groaned as someone turned him over.

"Hey, Crockett," a familiar voice called to him. "It's Jimmy Renkin from downtown...take it easy...you're gonna be okay...hold on buddy...we're here now!"

Sonny could make out the crackling of radio static and Jimmy's partner shouting frantically.

"Officer down, officer down! This is, patrol car 672, patrolman Mike Regan, requesting an ambulance immediately to the vicinity of Logan and Fifth. I repeat, Officer down, please acknowledge...requesting an ambulance immediately to the vicinity of Logan and Fifth!"

Sonny tried to stop himself from drifting, fearful that if he lost consciousness, he would never wake up again. Forcing himself to focus on Renkin's face, he waited patiently while praying for just a little more time.

There was another screech of brakes and a flash of brilliant red. A door slammed sharply.

"Okay, what's his condition?" a deep voice demanded.

It was a voice he knew so well.

"He's alive...barely," Jimmy muttered.

"Sonny?" the deep voice called to him soothingly.

Someone lifted his head and shoulders off the pavement.

"Lieutenant," he whispered.

"I'm here."

Castillo put his fingers on the side of Crockett's neck while cradling his head in his arms.

"Marty..."

The look he caught in the lieutenant's eyes confirmed what he already knew.

He coughed.

"Marty...it was Pedrosa all along. The deal never even existed," he said, forcing his words out slowly. "Looks like he's in Miami...and he's on the move."

"Let me worry about him," he heard Marty say.

"Be careful."

"Don't talk, Sonny. Save your strength."

Sonny licked his lips and tasted blood.

"Get Gina, Marty. Please," he pleaded looking up, hoping his fear didn't show.

"Okay. I will."

"Hurry..."

"How is he, Lieutenant?" Someone else had arrived. Sonny strained hard to hear the voice.

"Talk to him. Keep him awake." Marty was saying. "I'm going to the marina to get Gina."

Sonny floated, consciousness on the edge.

Stay awake...stay awake...

Another set of strong arms had wrapped around him.

"Sonny, it's Rico! Sonny?"

"Hey, buddy," Sonny whispered.

"You gotta hold on, man...God...I'm so sorry...it all happened so fast! Stan and I, we tried to stop them..."

"Rico," he growled. He took in a breath and winced. "There was no way you could have known. It was a set up from the start. There was never any deal...just a clever trap...and I was the prize."

He felt Rico's hands tighten on his arm.

"Who?" he asked bitterly.

"Pedrosa..."

"We'll get him, Sonny," Rico murmured angrily. "I'll get him."

"Listen. You...you have to promise me something, Rico. This is important."

"What? Anything!"

"He's going to try and get to Gina. And Emily! That's what he told me. Please! You and Marty...you have to protect them!" Sonny's eyes got wild with fear as he gripped Rico's jacket, trying to pull himself up. "Promise me, Rico! Promise me..."

"Of course, man...I wouldn't let anything happen to either one of them, you know that. And when I finally catch up to him, the bastard won't know what hit him! That's a promise, too. But listen. We've found you now and you're going to be okay."

Sonny let his body slump back down.

"Think so, huh?"

"Sure. The ambulance is on its way. They'll operate on you, patch you up, and you'll be good as new!"

Not this time, buddy.

"You're a good liar, Rico."

"Stop it, Sonny. You're going to make it. We'll look back on this some day and say, 'Another disaster we got through together.' Right? Come on, now. You have to promise me you'll be thinking like that from here on in."

"Yeah...Okay. I promise." Sonny closed his eyes. "But you and Marty? Watch out for Pedrosa. He's smart...real smart."

Rico pulled Sonny close and grit his teeth to keep from shouting.

"You can put your mind at ease, Sonny," he told him. "This time he has met his match."

by MJ

Intro :: Part 1: Revolution :: Part 2: Reward :: Part 3: Rewiring :: Part 4: Remembrance

Image Credits :: Music Credits