Title: To be Owned
Author: Bj Jones
Rating: FRAO
Disclaimer: I think we all know I don't own them and the reasons why. They are owned by various executives, producers, writers and studios that have more lawyers than I want to mess with. I'm not making any money just borrowing them for a bit and promise to return them.
Summary: The Caine Brothers have been running the drug traffic in Miami for decades; Lieutenant Speedle wants put them out of business. Horatio Caine wants Speedle – to own him.
Beta: Calypso and Kay
Author's Note: Don't ask where this bunny came from. It's evil and demands attention. This is a serious AU!!
Warning: Slash – Really people by now you should know – if you don't like it don’t read it. Dark themes, drugs, non-con, suicide – not for the faint of heart.

~*~

Horatio Caine looked out over the ocean, letting the sound of the waves soothe his nerves. This was the fourth bust that the Lieutenant had taken down. He was beyond pissed. Lt. Speedle had done it again; he was interrupting his distribution lines. He had to be getting his information from somewhere. He turned to eye his brother sitting next to his wife, Yelina. They made a handsome pair and Ray Jr. was the apple of everyone's eye in the household, but only a select few knew about Ray's mistress Suzie, and their little girl Madison.

"How is he finding out our routes and shipment dates?" Horatio demanded from his staff.

"We're looking into it H." Eric leaned back. He had picked Eric up off the streets. Good Catholic Cuban boy, selling himself for drugs. After his father's business went belly up and his subsequent suicide, the family fell apart. His mother had a complete break down and ended up in a mental ward, while his three sisters had found husbands and left the area not wanting to be reminded of a once happy family. Eric found himself on the streets with no family, no education, and no home. He resorted to prostitution, leading him to drugs, in turn leading him to Horatio. He pulled the kid off the street seeing his potential. Eric was now his right hand man, he did whatever Horatio wanted, including warming his bed.

"Four incoming shipments destroyed." Horatio looked around the patio.

"I'm searching for a leak," Eric tried to soothe the redhead. "So far everyone is clean. He's either got a psychic in his pocket, or is fucking lucky."

"No one is that lucky," Ray commented.

"Find the leak, Eric." Horatio got up and slipped on his glasses. "I'm having lunch with some important clients."

"Try not to kill Clavo," Yelina grinned at her brother-in-law. "He's annoying, but the General does good business with us."

Horatio smiled. "For you, I'll try."

Horatio climbed into his Hummer, his thoughts on a certain dark haired Lieutenant. Speedle intrigued him. He was one of the best drug enforcement officers he had ever seen. He remembered when he first saw him. Speedle had raided one of his small time drug houses. He hadn't lost much, but it was the first time one of his drug houses had actually been hit. Speedle stood near by, wearing dark jeans, black turtleneck, and Kevlar vest, with his unruly hair blowing in the wind, a constant five o'clock shadow, and dark soulful eyes. He had gone home and fucked Eric into the mattress. Eric was the only one who knew of Horatio's obsession with the Lieutenant. Knew that if Horatio had a chance he would take him and make Speedle his.

Horatio admired the fact Speedle had a good team behind him; Alexx Woods was an excellent profiler. He wondered what made a medical doctor go from surgery in New York to profiling in Miami. She was loyal to Speedle, very loyal. No getting to him through her. Calleigh Duquesne, a beautiful woman, one he would normally pursue. Her southern accent was soft, but deadly – the woman knew her weapons. Also very loyal. Speedle had saved her from an abusive family. She would die for him.

He had to have a weakness. Horatio vowed he would find it. He would have Speedle.

~ Downtown Miami ~

"Right on time," Speedle rolled his eyes. "If you're going to be a well known drug lord, isn't it dangerous to keep an exact schedule just in case some rival wants to shoot you?"

"I don't think a rival would dare shoot Horatio Caine," Calleigh responded.

"True," he nodded. "Though it makes it easier for us to tail him."

Horatio got out of his Hummer, eyeing the parked Tahoe near by. He gave the cops a small wave and walked into the restaurant.




"I really do hate him," Speedle grumbled.

"He's handsome," Calleigh smirked. Speedle just looked at her. "Well he is," she defended.

"He's also Miami's main supplier of drugs," Speedle pointed out.

"Well you could see how people would follow him," Calleigh sighed. "You seemed stressed."

"I am." Speedle rubbed his temple. His migraines were coming back. "Stetler is on my case, wondering when I'm going to actually show something for all the money my team is spending. I pointed out that we took four shipments. He responded by pointing out that the Caines just got another shipment out the next week. I really do hate him sometimes."

"Who do you hate more, Stetler or Caine?" Calleigh teased.

"At the moment, Stetler," Speedle grumbled. "But Caine is a close second, wait…no, I hate Raymond Caine worse."

Calleigh patted his arm. "We'll get them."

"I know." Speedle watched the redhead have lunch with The General and his two sons. Though he hated to admit it, Calleigh was right. Horatio Caine was a very handsome man; lean, well built, deep blue eyes, fiery red hair. He had seen a picture where Horatio had been relaxed and smiling, he was almost breathtaking. And Speedle hated himself for thinking that.

~ Restaurant ~

"Those pigs outside?" Clavo sneered at the Tahoe.



"Clavo," The General admonished his son. "Don't waste your time."

"Seems I can't get rid of my tail," Horatio grinned.

"I hear they got four of your shipments," Clavo leaned back smirking at Horatio. "Losing your game old man."

Horatio ignored him and turned to the General. "Your son should learn some manners."

"He's his mother's son," The General sighed. "She spoils him."

"I can tell," Horatio smirked as he leaned back.

"Heard a rumor," Ramon Cruz grinned.

"That's good." Horatio eyed the older Cruz brother. The one he would have to watch out for. He was smarter and more deadly than Clavo

"Speedle is moving in on you," Clave grinned. "Taking your operation down. He's got an inside man."

"I've got plans for Lt. Speedle," Horatio leaned back, a plan formulating in his head. There maybe a way to get Speedle, and stop the raids against his organization. He smiled slightly, his eyes drifting towards the parked Tahoe. He could just make out Speedle and Duquesne.

~ Caine Residence: Midnight ~

Horatio grinned as he looked down at his prey. He couldn't believe it had worked. The politicians and higher ups in this town were corrupt fat pigs. Even he would never sell out one of his own, but they did.

Timothy James Speedle was blindfolded; with his hands cuffed behind his back, on his knees in Caine's bedroom. Horatio was hard just thinking about the possibilities. He ripped off the blindfold. "Welcome Lieutenant."

Speedle blinked and looked up at Horatio defiance in his eyes. "Go to hell."

"You're already there." Horatio squatted down in front of him.

"You can't hold me here." He squirmed against the handcuffs. "They will come looking for me."

"No, they won't." Horatio forced Speedle to look at him.

"You can't kidnap an officer of the law and expect to get away with it. That's brash even for you," Speedle sneered.

"I bought you," Horatio informed him. "You're mine. I made a deal with your superiors. I cut my supply line by fifteen percent, they give me you."

Speedle frowned. "That's illegal. I’m not for sale! You're lying."

"Have I ever lied?" Horatio questioned.

"My disappearance won't go unnoticed," Speedle's voice lowered.

"You have no family," Horatio pointed out. "And Miss Duquesne and Mrs. Woods have been pulled onto other teams. You my dear Lieutenant, have been shipped off to DC to consult with the Feds. No one will be looking for you."

"What the hell do you want with me?" Speedle demanded.

"Simple." Horatio leaned forward his lips against Speedle's ear. "You." Horatio pulled back, the grin on his face fading as he saw those beautiful brown eyes go dark.

~ A Week Later ~


Speedle stared out of the window in the bedroom. Horatio had left him alone for the week. Probably to contemplate his new found status. He wouldn't, and couldn't, believe that Alexx and Calleigh would stop looking for him. That they would believe that he would just move and go work for the Feds. He had to believe it.

He had little faith in people, but he believed in people. Believed they would betray you, abandon you, and hurt you. Alexx and Calleigh were the only ones in this world he truly believed in. They got him to open up, to live. They wouldn't leave him here. Would they?

He was a conflict of emotions. Being that close to Horatio Caine had boiled his blood. He hadn't felt anything that strong since, well, for a very long time. The windows and door were locked and wired for security. He was surprised there were no cameras in the room, well at least ones he could see. There was a full wardrobe in the closet. Designer clothes he could never afford and they were in his size. A servant brought him his meals. He barely ate any of them. He ignored the concerned and upset looks from the servant; she would always leave fruit and cookies behind. He never touched them.

He felt it; he knew it was coming. The longer he was here the faster he slipped into the darkness. In his heart he knew Calleigh and Alexx wouldn't leave him, but could they find him? Was it safe for them to even look?

He turned when he heard the door open, a bit surprised to see Raymond Caine. So far he had only seen one servant and Caine's right hand man Delko. "What are you doing here?"

"Got a surprise for you." Raymond motioned for two bodyguards to come in and escort Speedle out.

~ Horatio's Office ~

"H?" Eric stepped into the spacious and airy office. He closed the door behind him. "We might have a problem."

"What?" Horatio looked up from his desk.

"I finished that full investigation on Speedle's background." Eric laid the folder down on Horatio's desk. "God, H, if we don't tread carefully with him. I think he'll take drastic measures."

"Drastic? In what way?" Horatio picked up the folder skimming through the file. "Is this verified?"

"Yeah." Eric sat down in front of Horatio's desk. "Makes you wonder if a man can go through that and turned out good, why can't…"

"You or I?" Horatio looked up.

"Basically." Eric leaned back.

"It's the decisions we make Eric," Horatio set the folder down. "Is he in his room?"

"Still there." Eric stood up. "Rosa says he barely eats, and she's worried about him. She says he's too thin, but is getting skinnier right in front of her eyes. And I'm quoting here 'he turned down my cookies, the boy needs help'."



Horatio grinned at Rosa's antics. "She doesn't like a skinny unfed person in her household."

~ Speedle's Room ~




"Where is he?" Horatio turned cold eyes on Eric.

"He was here this morning. Rosa said she brought him his breakfast." Eric looked over at the untouched tray.

"Senior Caine." Rosa stepped in to the room. Her dark eyes full of worry.

"Yes, Rosa," Caine smiled at her. She was a loyal servant in his household.

"Senior Raymond came and took the young man away." She twisted the apron in her hands. "I heard him tell the Lieutenant he had a surprise for him."

"Thank you, Rosa." Horatio moved swiftly down the halls towards Raymond's rooms.

"I take it you know nothing about this?" Eric asked when he caught up with Horatio.

"No," Horatio growled lightly. He knocked then walked into Ray's suite. Yelina looked up at Horatio startled. "Yelina, where's Ray?"

"Meeting with you," Yelina answered hesitantly. "That's what he told me."

Horatio turned towards Eric. "Find him."

Yelina stood up walking towards Horatio, "What's going on? What has Ray done now?"

"He escorted Lieutenant Speedle out of his room." Horatio ran a hand through his hair.

"You don't think?" Yelina's eyes went wide. "He wouldn’t kill him against your orders."

"He better not have," Horatio growled lightly.

~ Later that Evening ~

Horatio was beyond pissed. Ray had stepped over the bounds. Speedle was not to be touched. Eric had found out that that Ray wanted to make sure Speedle understood his new life, that he had just placed Speedle back into his room, and was heading towards Horatio's office.

Eric watched Horatio carefully. He was calm, cold, and very very deadly. Ray walked into the office a smile on his face. Eric shook his head, sometimes he truly wondered if Raymond was really a Caine.

"Brother," Raymond smiled and sat down in one of the chairs in front of the desk. "What did you want?"

Horatio's eyebrow rose. "Where were you today?"

"Taking care of business," Ray shrugged.

"And what business do you have with Speedle?" Horatio demanded. "He was not to be moved from this location."

"I made sure he understood the situation," Ray defended.

"What did you do?" Horatio demanded.




"Like I said, made the situation clear." Ray sat up and looked at his brother. "What is your problem?"

Horatio moved around the desk, grabbed Ray by the shirtfront and slammed him against the nearest wall. "He is not to be touched." Horatio growled. "I swear, Raymond, if he's hurt or injured because of you and your two goons, you will pay."

"What's with you and him?" Ray pushed against Horatio. "He's a cop, one that took down four of our shipments. You should just put a bullet through his head."

Horatio let go of Ray and stepped back. "What I do with Speedle isn't your business. You will stay away from him."

Horatio hurried down the hall a feeling of dread settling around him. He unlocked the door but it didn't budge. Fear began to sink in.

"ERIC!" Horatio yelled down the hall.

Eric came running, concerned at the tone in his boss's voice – a tone rarely heard. The only time he had heard it was when Ray Jr. had fallen into the pool when he was a toddler. "H?"

"The door is being blocked." Horatio motioned and the two of them slammed against the hardwood door. The door groaned a second slam into it and a loud crack was heard just as the door gave away.



Horatio stumbled into the room. The smell assaulted him first. Blood. He moved quickly into the bathroom. His heart leaped into his throat. Speedle was on the bathroom floor lying in a pool of his own blood. He had slit his wrists from a piece of broken glass. The bathroom mirror had been shattered blood dripping down from the impact point.

"Get Dr. Woods," Horatio told Eric as he knelt down next to Speedle checking for a pulse, sighing with relief when he felt a slow but steady beat.

Horatio grabbed bandages out of the cabinet in the bathroom and bound the wounds on the wrist. Picking up the Lieutenant he got him into the bedroom and onto the bed. He heard a gasp and looked up to see Yelina.

"I saw Eric leaving in a hurry." She approached the bed. "Is he going to be okay?"

"Ray better hope so." Horatio smoothed back the dark hair. "Do you know what happened today?"

"No," Yelina shook her head. "Ray did this?"

"He did something to set this off." Horatio sat on the bed holding the younger man close. "Can you make sure no one comes in here?"

"Sure," Yelina looked at her brother-in-law. "You care for him?"

Horatio sighed, his eyes only on Tim, "Yes."

"You need someone," she said as she headed for the door. "Though only you would complicate it by that someone being not only a cop, but a cop who's trying to take you down."

Horatio smiled, "Why make it easy?"

"I'll be outside, waiting for Eric." Yelina closed the door behind her.

Horatio wondered when and how his feelings changed from wanting to own him to wanting to care for him – or was it one and the same. Tim Speedle had weaseled his way into Horatio's heart. A heart he had closed decades ago, after his wife had been killed.

He looked down at the young man in his arms. Ten minutes or less and they would have lost him. There was still a chance if Eric didn't get Dr. Woods back to the house soon. At the moment the bleeding had stopped, but these types of wounds were tricky at best. His hand caressed the unruly locks. "Don't you dare leave. God, Speed. You can't leave me. I… I just want to take care of you. Let me take care of you…"

"Speed?" A groggy voice answered.

Dark pain filled eyes looked up at him. Horatio grinned, "It fits you. No one moved against my operation as fast as you did. Besides, I've seen your bike."

A small smile on his face. "I like it. Better than Timmy."

"Rest," Horatio softened his voice. "Woods is on her way."

"No," Speed shook his head. "I don't want her here… Please… It hurts too much …"

"You need medical attention," Horatio left no room for argument.

"Does it matter? Everyone's always leaves me." His eyes focused on Horatio. "And you will too." His voice dropped as he slipped back into a troubled sleep.



"I will never leave you. I promise you this," Horatio whispered.

~*~

Alexx Woods was livid. She was beyond livid. Never in her life had she felt like killing someone. Horatio Caine was on the top of her list. The moment Eric Delko dragged her out of bed and into the waiting Hummer her suspicions had been confirmed. Horatio Caine had taken her baby. She really didn't care if he had half of Miami in his back pocket. She didn't care that he could and probably would kill her without thought. He had her baby and he would pay. And now her baby was injured and alone.

Eric wisely kept quiet. He never realized the profiler was a force to reckon with. She scared the crap out of him. He didn't even get the Hummer parked before she was out of the vehicle and into the house demanding to see Speedle.

She glared at anyone who got in her way as she headed towards the bedroom. Even Yelina stepped out of her way, practically even opened the door.

Alexx stormed into the bedroom her eyes focusing instantly on Tim. "Oh sugar." She ran over to the bed pushing Horatio out of the way without so much as a glance. Checking the wounds she sighed deeply. "What did you do, baby?" She soothed back his unruly hair. "Tim, honey."

"Alexx?" He looked up at her his eyes full of hurt and pain. "What are you doing here?"

"They came to get me," she smiled at him. "Let me take care of these wounds."

He pulled his hand away from her grasp, "Leave."

"Tim?" Alexx asked shocked.

"You're just like the rest." He maneuvered away from her. Horatio was suddenly at his side helping him. Tim pulled away from him falling out of the bed. He grimaced as he hit his wrists. He got up and backed away from both of them. "You promised me."

"Baby," Alexx approached him carefully. "They took you away from us." She glared at Horatio who just glared back.

"I heard you." Tim backed up against the wall tears in his eyes. "You and Calleigh moving on like my disappearance was nothing."

"Speed." Horatio stepped forward. "When did you hear this?"

"The video." Tim wiped the tears away. "Calleigh was going back to New Orleans, Alexx to the Feds…"

"Oh baby." Alexx wiped her own tears away. "We weren't going anywhere. They told us you left for DC. I didn't believe a word they said. But anytime Callie and I would try to find out what happened we kept hitting obstacles."

Tim looked up at her desperate to believe her. "But I heard you…"

"We knew if we 'stayed' in Miami we would find nothing. So we figured if we gave up and actually believed that you left us, they wouldn't fight us so hard. We wanted them to think we gave up and were leaving…"

"They actually believed it?" Horatio asked a bit surprised.

Alexx ignored him. "That way we could put all our effort in finding you." She stepped forward. "I would never leave you."

Tim sobbed and fell into her arms. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay, honey. I've got you now." They both slipped to the ground. Alexx held and soothed him. "Is that why you did this?"

"I couldn't stand it." Tim pulled back. "The idea no one was coming…"

Horatio stepped out of the room, motioning to Eric. The two walked a bit down the hall away from any prying ears. "Find out what Ray is up to."

"What did he do?" Eric asked.

"He's got someone inside Miami-Dade PD. He had a video of Speed's teammates giving up the search." Horatio looked down the hallway.

"If he has someone on the inside why don't we know about it?" Eric got suspicious.



"That’s what I want you to find out." Horatio headed back to the bedroom.

Eric stopped by the bedroom door and watched as Alexx got Speedle back onto the bed and started fixing his wounds. Reading Speedle's history made him seriously think. The man had seen hell and survived. He could see the darkness in his eyes, the pain there, a very deep pain. He had to admire the man for surviving, fighting for good in this world when he'd seen none of it. He could see why his boss was obsessed with him; even Eric began to feel protective of the dark haired cop. It was in Horatio's nature to protect. If things had gone down differently all those years ago, he bet Horatio would have made a good cop.

Horatio watched Alexx work. She stitched up the wound and fixed his bandages. She had to force him to take some painkillers that would help him sleep. Horatio understood the feeling. He didn't like being unaware of what was around him. Speed fell into a drugged sleep, curled around some of the pillows.

Alexx turned on him her brown eyes flashing. "You did this."

"I'm trying to save him." Horatio countered.

"By taking him." Alexx got up in his face.

Horatio didn't back down. "They sold him to me, just gave him up with out a second thought."

"Why do you want him? To make him your whore?" Alexx growled.

Horatio paused. "I will not force anyone into my bed."

"But you're not denying you want him there." Alexx stepped back. "I can see it in your eyes. You want him."

"Yes." Horatio glanced over to the bed. "But I won't force him. I'm not a rapist."

"No, just a murdering drug lord," Alexx countered before turning around and heading back to the bed.

"I've never lied about who I am," Horatio pointed out. "I wanted Speed the moment I laid eyes on him. And now that I have him, I won't give him up."

"So you are going to hold him prisoner?" Alexx demanded.

"He's better off with me, then out there. Do I need to point out again that your boss sold him to me," Horatio growled. "They don't care what happens to him, as long as the figures look good at election time. You can say what you want about me, but I never sell out my people or my family."

Alexx had to concede on that point. "Why Tim?"

"Because behind those pain filled eyes is a beautiful soul that calls out to me," Horatio paused, shocked at what he just said.

Alexx stared at him, equally shocked. "I'm not leaving."

"I figured as much," Horatio sighed. "He needs you."

Alexx stared at Horatio searching his face, his eyes, for something, anything. She glanced down at Tim, then back at Horatio. "He also needs you."

Horatio nodded. "I'll check on the two of you in the morning."

"Speed?" Alexx asked as he walked out of the room.

"Like I told him, it fits." Horatio smiled lightly. "Considering how fast he weaseled his way into my heart."

Alexx smirked. "Tell me about it, sugar."

~ Week Later ~

Speed sat curled up in one of the lounge chairs on the balcony outside his room. The morning fog obscured his view of the ocean, but he could hear the waves. His wrists were healing, but the scars would be noticeable to anyone who looked.

Alexx hadn't left his side. He tried to get her to leave, but she refused. He worried about Calleigh alone out there, wondering what happened to the two of them.

He rubbed the day's growth of beard on his face as he tried to get his thoughts organized. Horatio Caine confused him. He wasn't blind, he knew Caine wanted him, but he hadn't made a move on him. And he wasn't sure if he was upset about it or not.

He could see why people were drawn to him, like moths to the flame. He had a presence about him. He took care of his family, his people. He had pulled Delko off the street and cleaned him up. Drugs were forbidden in his household. He looked at Speed with compassion and even hints of love. Speed wanted to just fall and let Horatio catch him.

"Deep thoughts?"

Speed looked up at Horatio and smiled, "Not really."

Horatio set down a tray of breakfast foods and a pot of coffee. "Figured we could have breakfast. This way I can assure Rosa you're eating."

Speed smiled lightly. "She's teamed up with Alexx."

Horatio blinked. "I’m sorry." Horatio about melted at the sound of Speed's laughter.

"Rosa's made it her goal to put ten pounds on me," Speed picked up the croissant and started nibbling on it.

"Only ten?" Horatio eyed Speed's lean frame.

"Not you too," Speed groaned.

"You are way too thin." Horatio sipped his coffee. "It's not healthy."

"Why do you care?" Speed set the croissant down.

"I want you healthy." Horatio set his coffee down. "You need…"

"What? So you can fuck me." Speed got up and went back into his room.

Horatio followed, "I've never denied the fact I wanted you in my bed."

Speed paused in the middle of the room. His voice quiet barely above a whisper, "Then why haven't you approached me?"

Horatio looked at the man before him, "I won't force you."

Speed turned to look at Horatio, tears in his eyes. "I'm not supposed to want you."

"Why?" Horatio stepped closer, approaching Speed carefully.

"You're a drug dealer." Speed turned away and walked further into the room. "You stand for everything I fight against. I know what drugs do to families…"

"Your father." Horatio ran a hand through his hair.

Speed turned and looked at him. "You checked my background?"

"Speed," he sighed, sitting down in one of the chairs. "You were the only cop that got close to shutting me down. I had to know everything about you to find a way to bring you down."

Speed stared at him. His breathing picked up, panic setting in. "So you know."

Horatio became concerned at Speed's wheezing. He moved quickly towards the young man. "Your father is a bastard and deserves to be killed."

A sob came out of Speed's mouth. "If you know…Then how could you want me?"

Horatio pulled Speed into his arms, taking his mouth in a sweet kiss. His lips were soft, just as he had imagined them to be. Speed opened up under him, letting Horatio's seeking tongue inside. The kiss deepened, becoming more passionate. Horatio's hands anchored in the dark locks holding him in place as he began to explore the hot mouth more thoroughly. Speed's arms wrapped around Horatio's waist pulling him close.

Speed suddenly pulled back panting softly. His brown eyes searched Horatio's blue. "What do you want?"

"Let me take care of you." Horatio stepped forward, his hand cupping Speed's cheek. "Let me love you." He pulled Speed back into his arms, his cheek resting against Speed's rough one. "Let go, I'll catch you."

Speed let go and fell.

Horatio caught him in his arms pulling him close, never to let go.

"Let me love you," Horatio whispered into Speed's hair.

"I'm yours." Speed held on tight.

Horatio took his hand and led him out of the room. Speed took in his surroundings. He hadn't been allowed access to this section of the house. He had been confined to his rooms and Alexx's across the way. Horatio led him to a set of double doors at the back of the house. He smiled at Speed and opened the doors.

The room was breathtaking. A king size bed a sat in the middle surrounded by open windows looking out to the ocean. A fireplace and a small sitting area were off to the right of the doors. A desk and table were off to the left. Next to the desk was a hallway that leads to the suites' bathroom. French double doors led to a patio and beach.

"This is where you will be staying from now on." Horatio slipped his arms around Speed's waist, kissing his neck.

"It's beautiful," Speed said in awe.

He turned Speed around and pointed to the doors on each side of the hallway that led up to the suite. "The door on the left is my office, the right my library." He grinned at Speed's sudden interest in the library. Alexx had told him about Speed's second obsession, books; his first being his bike.

Speed turned in Horatio's arms now facing him. He kissed him softly nibbling on his lips before pulling back slightly but not out of his arms. "I just ask for one thing."

"Anything," Horatio whispered.

"I don't want to know what's going on." Speed pushed him back into the bedroom. "Your business stays out of this room."

Horatio nodded. "This is our place, nothing else enters here."

Speed took Horatio's mouth in a hard, deep kiss, "Now take me to bed."

Horatio pulled Speed fully into the room, turning quickly and slamming and locking the doors. He snagged Speed back into his arms, kissing him deeply as he maneuvered them towards the bed. He got Speed's shirt off, his hands caressing the soft skin, flicking the nipples lightly. Speed groaned, his head falling onto Horatio's shoulders. His own hands unbuttoning Horatio's shirt and sliding over the smooth chest.

Speed stiffened when Horatio's hands caressed his back. He tried to pull out of Horatio's arms, but he wouldn't let him. Horatio's hands slowly stroked up and down Speed's back, caressing each of the scars he found. Speed shuddered in his arms for the first time letting a lover touch his back. Horatio kissed and licked down Speed's neck, as he pushed him back towards the bed.

Speed fell back onto the bed, a smile on his face. He climbed the rest of the way onto the bed, into the middle. He smiled coyly, waiting for Horatio to join him. Horatio grinned and stripped out of his shoes, socks, pants and briefs. Speed breath hitched in his throat at the sight of Horatio, his hard cock already leaking, standing proud out of the copper color hair. He smirked at Horatio and beckoned with his finger.

Horatio pushed him down onto the bed attacking his nipples licking, tasting, and biting them until they were erect. Speed's hand slipped into the vivid red hair, holding his head to his chest. Moaning in pleasure as Horatio drove him to the brink of insanity. Horatio sat up and looked down at his dark haired beauty. His hands caressed the bulge he found in the dark jeans Speed was wearing. Speed nodded slightly as Horatio unbuckled and unzipped the jeans, his hands reaching in to caress the hard flesh, Speed pushed into the touch moaning softly. Horatio quickly divulged Speed of the rest of his clothes leaving him spread wide and open for Horatio's feasting eyes.

Speed shivered under Horatio's gaze. "I'm not much…"

"You're beautiful." Horatio leaned forward taking Speed's mouth in a loving kiss. "I can't wait to taste you."

"Horatio…" Speed groaned as Horatio took the head of his cock into his mouth. "Oh.. God…Please…"

Horatio licked up and down the hard shaft savoring the taste of his lover. Speed spread his legs further part babbling incoherently. Horatio swallowed the hard member whole, working the head with his throat, his finger gently rubbing Speed's opening. In seconds Speed shouted as his orgasm hit him. Horatio swallowed greedily.

He licked his lips as he leaned over a boneless Speed. He smiled down at the dark haired beauty, taking his lips in a deep kiss. Speed pulled him down, deepening the kiss, his long legs wrapping around Horatio's waist.

Horatio pulled back quickly grabbing a condom and lube from the night stand. "On your hands and knees."

"I want to see you." Speed sat up on his elbows.

"How long has it been?" Horatio asked.

Speed hesitated looking away from Horatio. "A while."

"Tim." Horatio forced him to look at directly at him.

"Ten years," Speed swallowed.



"It would be better on your hands and knees," Horatio caressed his cheek.

"I can't. Please." Speed closed his eyes leaning into the touch.

Horatio kissed him softly. "Later we'll talk."

"Just fuck me already," Speed leaned forward and whispered into Horatio's ear, nibbling on the lobe lightly.

"No." Horatio began to kiss his way down Speed's chest. "I'm going to love you, hard and deep."

Horatio took his time preparing his lover, enjoying the sounds Speed was making. Horatio grinned as Speed slipped into a foreign language. For a quiet contemplative man he was very vocal in bed and Horatio was enjoying every sound.

"Please…I need you…" Speed begged. He was on the edge, hard as a rock and no relief. All he wanted was to feel Horatio slip inside of him.

Horatio slipped Speed's legs up on his shoulders and lined up to his opening. He leaned over, kissing Speed passionately as he slipped slowly into the welcoming body. He was tight and oh so warm. Horatio moaned deep in his throat when he was fully inside. It had never been like this, so full, so complete. He looked into Speeds dark lust filled eyes, seeing the emotions he was feeling mirrored there. He began a slow easy thrust, letting Speed adjust to his size. Speed arched to meet each one. His thrusts became harder and faster, wanting nothing but to bury himself in his lover. The sounds of skin against skin, loud moans and pants echoed through the room as Horatio strove for completion.

He took Speed erection and stroked him, matching his thrusts. Speed arched upward taking him in as deep as he could, crying out his name, tears running down his cheeks as he came, his seed spilling between them. Horatio grabbed Speed's hips lifting him up and holding him as he thrust in hard and deep coming with a shout.

The two men collapsed on the bed, Speed still wrapped around Horatio, holding him close. Horatio nuzzled Speed's neck marking him for all to see. Speed turned his head taking Horatio's mouth in a sweet kiss. Horatio regretfully pulled away and disposed of the condom. He held out his hand. Speed took it as he was helped off the bed and into the bathroom. Horatio prepared a hot relaxing bath for the two of them. They never left the suite.

~ Week Later ~

"Did we ever find the leak?" Horatio asked Eric in his office.

"No," Eric groaned sitting back. "I was tempted to ask Speed who he talked to, but I doubt he would give it up."

"And what about Miss Duquesne?" Horatio asked.

"Still looking," Eric admired her determination. "Don't be surprised if she comes up to you directly demanding information. Are you still going to your monthly lunch with The General and his two sons?"

"I still have a business to run," Horatio paused at some of files he was looking at it.

"Even if you would rather stay in bed all day," Eric smirked at him.

"Did you read these files?" Horatio looked up.

"Our informants? Or the expenses?" Eric looked over at the folders.

"Both," Horatio set the folders down. "Why is Ray spending this much on informants? And when did we get more?"

Eric looked over the files once again, "These aren't the files I approved."

"What?" Horatio asked.

"This expense wasn't here." Eric looked up. "I approve every informant we have."

"So you have no idea who this informant is and why he's costing ten grand a month?" Horatio asked.

"Not a clue, but I sure as hell am going to find out." Eric stood up. "I'll get back to you."

"Eric." Horatio got up from his desk. "This could be linked to the unknown connection in the Miami-Dade Police."

Eric nodded, "Go to lunch. I'll get back to you."

~ Speed/Horatio's Room ~

Speed curled up in one of the chairs reading a book on Voltaire when the suite phone rang. He looked up a bit surprised, he had never heard it ring before. He let it go to the answering machine attached to the phone.

"Horatio," Speed's head jerked up. "It's Suzie… please can you come here… It's Ray he's… God please …"

Speed grabbed the phone. "Suzie."

"Tim," Suzie cried out. "Oh, thank God. You've got to help me. Ray he's out of control. He hit Madison… I don’t know what to do."

"I'll be there as soon as I can," Speed hung up the phone. Grabbing the notebook he left a simple note. He knew where Horatio kept his extra piece. Breaking into the cabinet he grabbed it and snuck out of the room. Avoiding the cameras and guards he slipped into the garage hot wired one of the vehicles and left for the first time in over a month in Horatio's care.

~ Suzie's Apartment ~

"Ray." Suzie held Madison behind her. "Calm down."

"Calm down! You little whore," Ray yelled. "You were telling Speedle the route shipments. Were you fucking him to?"

"Ray, please." Suzie backed up.

Ray backhanded her. "You bitch. Selling me out to the cops."

Suzie held her stinging cheek. "He took care of us. You just left us with no food, no money. Nothing." She stood up, making sure her daughter was behind her. "Don’t think I don't know where the money is going."

"So you whore yourself out to the cops." Ray advanced on her. "I'll kill you for this."

"Step away from her Ray." Speed stood in the doorway gun raised. "Don’t even think about going for your gun."

"Well if it isn't my brother's whore," Ray sneered. "Does he know you've been screwing Suzie?"

"Suzie get Madison and let's go." Speed moved away from the door to let Suzie and Madison by.

"He won't forgive you for this," Ray growled.

"Horatio doesn't own me," Speed growled back. "Though you might want to worry about what he'll do when he finds out you've not only hit Suzie and Madison, but that you are nothing but a meth addict." Speed smirked. "Don’t look surprised. I know more about your comings and goings than you think. I know about your addiction and that Clavo Cruz is supplying you for information on Horatio."

Ray paled. "You won't live past this day."

"Even if you kill me, the information will come out." Speed moved towards the door. "You will never be the man your brother is."

Speed backed out of the room, checking for any of Ray's goons. The three of them ran down the stairs and out to the street. Speed pulled into the traffic just as Ray and his two guards came running out. He turned towards Suzie. "I'm getting you out of here. I've got some friends."

"Why were you at Horatio's? I tried calling you," Suzie asked.

Tim looked at her then focused on the road. "Long story."

Suzie smiled. "I obviously picked the wrong Caine."

~ Airport ~

Speed pulled up to the small aircraft. He ushered Suzie and Madison towards the plane. "Wolfe will take care of you. Never come back here."

"Thank you." Suzie kissed him on the cheek. "Let him take care of you, Tim. You deserve it."

"I will," Speed smiled. "Now go." He turned to the young man. "Make sure they are safe."

"You should come too." Ryan was scared for his friend.

"I can't," Speed smiled at Ryan. "Go." The sound of sirens was heard in the distance. "Ryan, go. Take care of them."

"Take care," Ryan grasped Tim's hand then ran off with Suzie and Madison to the small plane.

Speed stood by the runway and watched as the plane took off. He sighed with relief, knowing Madison and Suzie were safe.

"Hands up."

Speed turned, his hands up in the air and a grin on his face as he looked at Stetler. "How long have you been working with the Cruz brothers?"

Stetler smirked. "How long have you been letting Caine fuck you?" Speed just stared at him. "On you knees, you should be used to it." Speed got on his knees hands still up. Uniforms moved in and pushed him to the ground, cuffing him, and then hauled him up. "You're under arrest."

"What are the charges?" Speed demanded.

Stetler smiled. "Drug trafficking, kidnapping…"

"Kidnapping?" Speed rolled his eyes. "That's funny."

"Take him away," Stetler growled at Speed.

~ Horatio's Home ~

"He's been fucking Suzie," Ray informed Horatio. "She was our leak. Your little whore just showed up and stole her from me."

Horatio stayed calm, his eyes narrowing at Ray. "Who's your informant in the Miami-Dade Police?"

"What?" Ray asked, startled.

"Ten grand a month?" Horatio tossed the file in front of Ray. "How else would you get information about Woods and Duquesne moving on?"

"It's someone I know," Ray explained. "He felt more comfortable with me."

"Call your informant." Horatio sat down and looked at his brother. "I want Speedle out of jail by nightfall."

"What!" Ray stood up yelling. "Did you hear me? He's been fucking Suzie. That’s where he was getting his information."

"The question here is not how Speedle was getting his information," Eric spoke from the sidelines. "But how did Suzie get her information?"

Horatio nodded towards the door, two of his trusted men walked into the room. "He doesn't leave this office."

"Horatio?" Ray stood up looking at his brother.

"Don't." Horatio stormed out of the office. Eric a few steps behind him. "Get my contact on the phone, now!"

Alexx ran up to Horatio a serious look on her face. "They arrested him."

"What?" Horatio paused.

"Stetler, the bastard arrested, Tim," Alexx growled.

"On what charges?" Eric asked.

"Drug trafficking, and get this, kidnapping me," Alexx placed her hands on her hips. "Calleigh is trying to get in to see him."

"This whole time you've been in contact with her," Horatio asked.

"Of course, sugar," Alexx smiled lightly. "She was keeping tabs for me at the precinct. She's on her way here actually."

Eric paused. "She's not going to shoot us is she?"

"I'm seriously tempted." Calleigh Duquesne stood in the hallway with a gun trained on Horatio's guard.

Horatio motioned for his guard to stand down, "Miss Duquesne."

"Mr. Caine." Calleigh holstered her weapon. "I have some information for you."

"About?" Horatio asked head cocked slightly.

"About Ramon and Clavo Cruz and your brother," Calleigh smiled at the guard. "Would you be a sweet thing and get the boxes out of my truck."

"Yes, ma'am." The guard walked off blushing.

Horatio just looked at Eric. "Did my guard just leave?"

"Yes," Eric snickered.

"Mr. Caine, I'm not thrilled with the fact you kidnapped Tim or Alexx, but Alexx has explained the situation." Calleigh stood her ground, hands on her hips. "Tim is a good man and needs to be taken care of; Lord knows he doesn't take care of himself." She rolled her eyes. "So I'm here to help on one condition."

"Which is?" Horatio tried not to smile, the woman had balls.

"You take him away from here and leave all this behind," Calleigh waved her hand around her.

"Deal." Horatio sealed the agreement with a handshake.

~ District Attorney's Office ~

"Is this accurate?" Rebecca Nivens looked up from her desk at Calleigh.

"Everything we've collected." Calleigh leaned back in her chair.

"Stetler has evidence of Speedle working with the Caines," Rebecca sat back eyeing the blonde carefully.

"And we have evidence that Stetler is working with the Cruz brothers and Raymond Caine on taking over The General's and Horatio's trade," Calleigh countered. "We also have evidence of Stetler making deals with Raymond to get rid of Speedle."

"What about the photos of Speedle in an intimate embrace with Horatio Caine?" Rebecca voice became cold. In her eyes Speedle had turned to the enemy and needed to be punished.

Calleigh leaned forward her green eyes flashing with anger. "I've handed you enough evidence to take down two major drug dealer, their suppliers, buyers, and middle men. Plus, enough information to begin investigations on corrupt cops, city officials, and even one judge. Timothy Speedle was sold out by corrupt officials, and this is how you repay him by throwing him in jail."

"If he's sleeping with the enemy," Rebecca spat out.

"So you would rather throw Speedle in jail and let everyone else walk?" Calleigh leaned back.

"I have enough to take them all down," Rebecca sneered. "The Caines, Cruzs and Speedle."

"With what evidence?" Calleigh demanded smiling. "You have nothing. You have a long range photo of Horatio and someone that could possibly be Tim Speedle in an embrace. Or it could be Eric Delko, Caine's right hand man."

"Raymond Caine will testify that Speedle had been working for him…" Rebecca smirked.

"Why such the effort to throw Speedle in jail?" Calleigh asked. "Is it because he refused your advances and now you want revenge? Or do you have plans to offer him a deal?"

"This department is willing to make a deal with Speedle," Rebecca casually responded. "He's being charged with kidnapping…"


"Alexx's already come forward stating that Tim had nothing to do with it," Calleigh informed her.

"Drug trafficking," Rebecca's voice hardened once again.

"Once again no evidence," Calleigh pointed out. "Nothing. You have nothing on Tim Speedle."

"He was fucking Horatio," Rebecca snarled. "If he wants out he'll have to make a deal with me."

Calleigh stood up. "Well it's obvious that you're letting your personal feelings get in the way of your good judgment. I was hoping better from you."

~ State Attorney's Office ~

"I'm severely disappointed in Miss Nivens." Michael Johnson shook his head listening to the tape.

"So was I," Calleigh stated easily.

"I can't give Horatio Caine immunity." Michael looked at Calleigh.

"I'm not asking you to," Calleigh responded.

"But I also know half this information you wouldn't have unless you got it from the inside." Michael leaned back in his chair.

Calleigh shrugged. "I'm not sure what you want me to say."

"I've got enough evidence here to take down a major trade in Miami, corrupt officials, and clean out some bad seeds in the department." Michael leaned forward. "There is no evidence of wrong doing on Timothy Speedle's part. He was a victim in all of this, as far as I see it, he did what he had to do to survive. All charges will be dropped and he will be released immediately with the government's apologies."

"Thank you," Calleigh smiled brightly.

"I will also be holding a press conference announcing the arrest of Raymond Caine, Clavo and Ramon Cruz." He saw her questioning expression. "Didn't you hear? The General revoked their immunity. Guess he wasn't happy about his sons trying to over throw his business," Michael smirked.

Calleigh stood up. "Good luck."

"Thank you Miss Duquesne," Michael stood up and shook her hand. "If you ever want a job…"

"I'm planning on retiring," Calleigh gave him a sad smile. "This case just…."

"I understand." Michael walked her to the door. "And if by some chance Horatio Caine were to slip through the net and get away before I sent agents after him…"

Calleigh nodded in understanding. "Goodbye and once again good luck."

~ Brazil ~

Horatio leaned over the patio railing, listening to the waves and watching Madison and Ray Jr. play in the sand, a sibling bond forming between them almost immediately. Yelina had taken in Madison instantaneously; she and Suzie becoming fast friends. He should have known she knew about Ray's infidelity from the beginning, but just played along.

He had failed Suzie. Not looking after her as he should have. In a way he was glad Speed had been there for her, even if it meant him finding out about shipments. Then again that situation had led Speed straight into his arms.

Alexx was sitting near by, reading and watching over her kids. It really didn't matter that Horatio was older than her, she saw everyone as her kids. He had learned a lot about the profiler in the past few months as the two worked to heal Speed.

He hadn't known that a disgruntled employee had killed her husband. He had been fired for failing a drug test and came back and shot up the law office. Her husband had been killed protecting others. She had miscarried their first child when she had heard the news. Speedle had been the officer investigating the crime. The two hadn't parted ways since and still haven't.

Calleigh Duquesne was a bit of surprise. He really didn't expect the young woman to show up in Brazil. She had grinned at him, called him handsome, made a comment about needing a vacation and set out to find Delko. They hadn't been apart since.

Soft hands slipped around his waist and a scratchy chin rested on his shoulder. Horatio turned around and pulled the young man into his arms and held him tight. The past months had been difficult on all of them. The week in jail had nearly broken Speed.

He was released without any flourish or attention. He was just shoved out of the jail into the waiting sun. Alexx and Horatio had taken one look at him and their hearts broke. He was pale, shaking, they could see bruises on his neck disappearing into his shirt, but it was his eyes that said it all. The soft brown eyes were almost dead. He had walked up to the Hummer and threw his arms around Horatio, sobbing into his shirt, begging for forgiveness. Horatio felt tears run down his own face, whispering soft words of love and that he was the one that needed forgiveness for not protecting the one thing he loved the most in this world.

Speed wouldn't let go of him. By the time they got to the plane he had fallen asleep. Horatio carried him into the plane and into the back bedroom. Alexx had examined him. Afterwards she was crying, ranting, and ready to go kill every one of the men that hurt her baby.

Eric had somehow gotten the police records from the prison. They had dumped Speed in the general population; one guard letting it out that Speed was a cop. Speed had been ambushed, beaten and raped. Eric smirked slightly when he found in the report that Speed had sent three of his assailants to the infirmary. The time he spent on the street had taught him a thing or two.

The next couple of months had been difficult, hitting rock bottom when he found Speed in the bathroom with a razor in his hands, shaking, and tears streaming down his face. He gave the razor to Horatio; he told him he wanted to do it – make the pain stop. But couldn't. He couldn't leave Horatio.

After that moment things started to get better. The nightmares were ceasing and Speed didn't flinch as much at Horatio's touch. He slept curled next to Horatio, but they still hadn't made love. Speed still felt like he had betrayed him and Horatio just kept telling him that he hadn't. That it wasn't his fault and he didn't look at him any differently. He hoped it was starting to sink in.

Horatio smiled at him. "Hi."

Speed grinned back. "I woke up without you."

"You needed to rest." Horatio cupped his cheek. "I had promised Yelina I would take the kids into town."

"Did you bring me back something?" Speed grinned shyly. Every time Horatio went to town he brought something back for him. It varied in what he got, sometimes a chocolate bar, a linen shirt; last time it had been a kitten. A kitten Speed had named Hope. Right now it was basking in the sun next to Alexx.

"You're getting spoiled." Horatio kissed his forehead.

Speed smiled. "So what did you bring me?"

Horatio laughed lightly. He reached over and grabbed a small package off the patio table and handed it to him. It was these moments Horatio lived for; Speed's brown eyes lit up with anticipation. He would look up at Horatio with a bright smile and sparkling eyes. The horror of that week was starting to fade.

Speed ripped into the package. He gasped at the items. "They're beautiful."

"I know you don't like anyone seeing the scars." Horatio took one of the leather wristbands and unbuckled it holding it open. Speed slipped his wrist into the soft leather. "This way you don't have to wear long sleeves or a shirt for that matter." Horatio grinned. "You could just walk around naked and I would be happy."

Speed blushed. "Don't want to traumatize the children."

"True, okay just naked in our bedroom," Horatio smirked as he fitted the second band.

Speed glanced down at the soft brown leather bands on each wrist. They moved with his wrists not constricting movement. He looked up into Horatio's eyes. "I love you."

Horatio let the tears fall. "I love you too."

Speed leaned up and took Horatio's lips in a deep kiss. He stepped back taking Horatio's hand and went back inside the house. Horatio let Speed lead. His heart was pounding in his chest when Speed led them back into their room.

Speed began to unbuttoned Horatio's shirt, his fingers caressing each patch of skin as it was exposed. He licked and sucked on one nipple while playing with the other. Horatio moaned, his hand going into Speed's hair. Speed kept his downward path, kissing and licking as he went. He dropped to his knees, his eyes on the bulge in Horatio's pants.

"Speed…" Horatio's voice was soft.

Speed looked up and smiled at him. "I want this." He cupped the hard cock through the soft fabric. He grinned as he untied the strings and pulled down the linen pants. Laughing lightly he caressed the hard member. He looked up at Horatio. "Commando?"

Horatio shrugged his hand caressing Speed's hair "You …"

Speed ignored him and licked the head before taking it into his mouth, sucking on it softly. His hands moved up Horatio's thighs, caressing as he moved upward. Horatio groaned, his hips thrusting. Speed pulled back but didn’t pull away. Horatio controlled his actions and let Speed set the pace. Speed took more of Horatio's cock into his mouth his tongue swirling around the head, pulling deep purring sounds out of Horatio. His hands cupped Horatio's balls and rolled them while he relaxed his throat and took Horatio deep. Horatio shook with pleasure and clamped on his iron control not to thrust into the warm mouth. The feel of Speed's probing finger sent him over the edge and with a shout he came.

Speed tried swallowing all of his lover's essence, but pulled back not able to take it all memories pushing to the forefront of his mind. Horatio sunk to his knees, taking Speed's face in his hands, tipping Speed's chin upwards looking him in the eyes, before leaning over and licking his own cum off Speed's chin. Speed sobbed, shifting slightly and taking Horatio's mouth in a tender kiss.

Horatio deepened the kiss, sucking Speed's tongue into his mouth tasting himself. He pulled back and smiled at his lover. He stood up stepping out of his pants, and stripped off his shirt. He held out his hand. Speed took it and let Horatio help him stand. His eyes never left Horatio's face as the redhead stripped him down. Horatio led them to the bed. Climbing in, he pulled Speed towards him.

"Make love to me," Horatio whispered into Speed's ear. "I want to feel you."

"Are you sure?" Speed nuzzled his neck. "I don't want to hurt you."

"I belong to you as much as you belong to me." Horatio smiled at him. "I need you."

Speed reached over and grabbed a condom and lube. Horatio grabbed his hand. "Nothing between us."

"No," Speed shook his head. "I …"

"You're clean," Horatio cupped his cheek. "Your tests were negative."

"I don't want to give you anything," Speed pleaded.

Horatio sighed, "In a few months when you do more blood work and it shows you're clean, no more condoms."

"I promise," Speed kissed him passionately and slowly began to prepare him.

Horatio was tight. Speed worked him slowly, taking his time before adding a finger. He had Horatio sobbing and begging for release. "Speed…please… now… God… "

Speed eased Horatio's legs onto his shoulders. "Tell me if it's too much."

"Inside me… now… I need…" Horatio threw his head back against the pillow as Speed slowly entered him. "Oh God Speed…"

Speed sank all the way in, his control on the edge as Horatio's heat surrounded him. He pulled out and gently pushed back in, moaning as Horatio clenched around him. He set a slow and easy pace, enjoying the sounds he was pulling out of Horatio.

Horatio panted as Speed made slow, deep love to him. He gripped Speed's arms meeting each of the thrusts. Begging for release as Speed hit his prostate each time sending spikes of pleasure through him.

"Harder…" Horatio demanded thrusting upward.

Speed obliged and started thrusting deeper and faster. His hand reached down and took Horatio's hard leaking cock and began to stroke with his thrusts. It didn't take long before Horatio thrust upwards and came hard. His muscles clenched around Speed setting off his own orgasm.

Speed collapsed onto Horatio, panting into his neck. Horatio held him close, soothing him as he felt the emotions begin to surface. Horatio rolled them, mourning the loss as Speed slipped out of him. He held him close not caring about the mess, letting Speed release the pent up emotions.

Speed wiped the tears away as he looked up at Horatio. "Thank you."

"I should be thanking you." Horatio kissed him. "Right now I think a bath is calling our name."

Speed smiled as they made their way to the bathroom. "I stayed alive, fought against them because I knew you would come and get me."

Horatio let him talk. This was the first time Speed had actually talked about what happened that week. "They didn't even take me to a holding cell. Figured I would talk faster if I got thrown into prison. The first night they threw me into a cell with two other guys. They didn't even wait for the guard to leave, before attacking me. I held them off that night. I guess they weren't expecting me to fight back."

"Report said you sent a few to the hospital," Horatio questioned.

"Not these guys," Speed paused. "It was the next day, in the showers. I fought them…" He looked up at Horatio. "I did…"

"I know." Horatio prepared a hot bath for the two of them.

"Took three down before they overpowered me." Speed sat down on the tub. "It hurt, not just physically but emotionally. I felt like I was betraying you."

"Baby, you did nothing wrong." Horatio put his arm around him. "I wanted to kill them for what they did to you. I still do."

"You had some friends inside," Speed leaned against him. "A group showed up and pulled them off of me. They saved my life. I wasn't supposed to make it out of jail alive. They said I belonged to you and was off limits. Most of them ironically backed off. A few snarled but were knocked flat by my new protectors."

Horatio vowed to find out who they were and check into their charges or at least make sure they had something to come out to.

"As I lay there…I wanted nothing but to die." Speed looked at Horatio. "But I knew… here…" He pointed to his heart. "You were coming. You saved me…" Speed held his fingers to Horatio's lips. "Not from the jail, and not even that night I slit my wrists. When you loved me despite my scars and past – you saved me."

"We saved each other." Horatio wiped the tears away. He got up and helped Speed into the tub. "And we'll keep saving each other for the rest of our lives."

"I love you." Speed kissed him before settling into the tub curling into Horatio's arms.

"I love you, too," Horatio whispered.