Surrender and Certainty (5/?)
Title: Surrender and Certainty
Fandom: the Devil Wears Prada
Pairing: Miranda/Andy
Rating: M
Summary: AU - Andy must lie to Miranda to do her job and bring down an elaborate crime ring involving Irv Ravitz. Circumstances will force Andy back into Miranda's professional and personal life whether the editor wants it or not. Will she be able to trust the brunette and let her in to her heart?
Disclaimers: Not mine, obviously. Just taking them out of the box for entertainment and will return them when finished (or not).
A/N: This chapter gave me a bit of an issue until I got about halfway through it and on to their personal conversation toward the end. Enjoy! Please R&R.
Andy was slowly roused from her very nice dream by a soft warm breath against her ear and a pleasant weight against her right side. She blinked and rubbed her eyes with her free hand. Her eyes drifted downward and landed on soft white hair mused from sleep. She continued her perusal of their current sleeping arrangement. Miranda's head was nestled on her shoulder and her hand was resting on her breast; funny how she was actually dreaming about something similar to this. "Oh God!" the brunette bit her lower lip and moaned softly as Miranda's hand was now massaging her breast. She clenched her thighs and tried to think of a way to extract herself from the very intimate and pleasing embrace even though she didn't want to. It was both torture and ecstasy.
She slowly sat up and started to scoot away but the older woman simply moved her hand to Andy's waist and pulled her firmly to her body. The warmth and scent of gardenias and sandalwood washed over her. The brunette sighed at the contented feeling that wormed itself into her very soul and simply gathered there. Then, Miranda's hand was on her breast again and making her extremely aroused as she tried stifling the moans that were being emitted from her mouth. Andy needed to put some space between them right now or she could not be held responsible for her actions. The brunette made deliberate movements to try and wake the other woman but when Miranda’s hand rubbed and squeezed again she moaned loudly and could no longer control her breathing.
"Andréa?” the agent opened her eyes at the sound of her name. So soft and sultry as it left the older woman’s lips it also sent a jolt straight to her core. God, everything about this woman is sexy. She groaned inwardly. “Is everything alright?" Miranda asked with concern in her stormy orbs.
"F-fine,” Andy stuttered aware of just how turned on she sounded. “Just, if you could remove your hand, please," she groaned slamming her eyes shut when that same hand inadvertently rubbed across her nipple. “Jesus…” the breath left her lungs in a soft gasp.
"What?" Miranda looked down at her hand grasping Andy's breast a bit firmly. "Oh, goodness! I apologize, darling," she pushed herself up so she was now resting above the younger woman. A blush crept its way up Miranda neck and into her cheeks.
Once her hand was removed, Andy slowly opened her eyes again and tried to get her breathing under control. She reached her free hand up to caress Miranda's cheek. "While I do enjoy your hands on me, I don't think we are quite ready for that," Andy spoke gently.
She knew her voice was slightly lower and a bit raspy. Miranda visibly shivered and leaned down to plant her lips softly to the brunette's. Good to know I’m not the only one affected. Their lips moved slowly and tenderly until the older woman pulled away placing a chaste kiss to the side of her mouth. "You are quite right," she sighed.
"I need to shower but I have a latte machine if you'd like me to make your coffee first," Andy smiled still stroking her cheek.
"Mmm, coffee. I would love some." Andy chuckled lightly and moved to get up. "No! Wait." The brunette was pulled into a sitting position on the edge of her bed. "We should talk."
"Okay," she smiled even though the brunette knew that what they needed to discuss was not something that could be rushed.
"You said you love me and I believe you. I know you are a genuine person. But why? Why me?" she asked wrapping her arms around Andy's torso.
"I could give you a million reasons, Miranda, but I doubt any of them would do how I feel justice." Andy sighed softly leaning into her embrace. "Love is beyond reason. Love is. It just is. I can't explain it right now; my brain is all mush because of you. Tonight?" she inquired hopefully.
"Yes. You can come to the townhouse. The girls are at their father's house until Spring Break is over."
"Okay. I really need to take that shower now though," Andy laughed.
"My apologies," Miranda smirked and the brunette had a feeling the older woman knew the effect she had on her.
"You ARE evil," Andy muttered and moved to get up.
She was unceremoniously pulled back down to the mattress and Miranda's lips attached to hers after she said, "I'll show you evil."
The brunette groaned when the older woman finally let her go. She hadn't wanted to move. Andy put the coffee on first so it would be ready and Miranda could enjoy her first cup while she took a cold shower. Much to her dismay, it only worked moderately. She would have to make it through the day perpetually aroused. She really hoped that wouldn’t become a pattern. She dressed in a smart black pinstripe Armani pant suit and matching vest with a lilac Donna Karan wrap shirt. Her make-up was light and her hair in soft curls.
When she emerged, Miranda was sitting at her small kitchen island enjoying her coffee already dressed and ready to go. Two strides in a pair of nude Blahniks into her kitchen caught the older woman's attention and Andy felt a small victory as she watched Miranda's eyes trail over her figure appreciatively. "Are you almost ready?" Andy asked walking to a cabinet and pulling out a travel mug for her coffee.
"Yeah...” a soft wet tongue snaked out to wet her lips. “I mean yes," Miranda's face flushed.
Andy chuckled softly and nodded without mentioning the sudden lapse in etiquette knowing full well Miranda would not appreciate it being pointed out. Instead, she grabbed a granola bar, her phone and texted Roy. "We'll go to see my superior first to discuss how we will handle this and then Runway."
"Alright, I'll inform Nigel to handle anything that comes up while we are busy."
The office was pretty quiet at this hour so thankfully they wouldn’t run in to too many people. Hastings was already in her office and by the looks of it waiting for them. The deputy director stood and straightened her pencil skirt before extending a hand to Miranda. The older woman merely looked at it and sat down. Andy really hoped her boss didn’t take that as disrespect. “Miranda this is Deputy Director Hastings, Deputy Director Hastings this lovely marvel of a business woman is Miranda Priestly.”
“A pleasure,” Hastings said politely. “I assume that agent Sachs has filled you in on some of the details of the case and her assignment?”
“Yes.” Miranda and Andy sat down in the chairs across from the deputy director’s desk.
“Are there any questions you have for me?” Hastings asked as she sat down.
“Why not tell me about this sooner? Why make her lie to me for nearly a year?”
“I suppose we could have read you in a lot sooner but then we might have put the case at risk. We had to make sure your interactions were as genuine as possible and didn’t draw suspicion toward our agent. You see, she was doing a lot of digging while at the Runway offices so late. You were completely eliminated as a suspect within the first week of her assignment. Quite the testament to her work ethic I believe. Irv was also quickly revealed though garnering the evidence took a little more time. We were trying to pin something more substantial on him when Andy here, found an exchange of emails detailing a drop off location and what the cargo included. Low and behold the cargo was women.”
“Human trafficking.”
“Yes. We have Irv’s full confession and every detail he knows or thinks would be pertinent to our investigation concerning Alexi Karoff. Now, I am aware that you will be taking the position of CEO and it is our worry that Karoff will approach you. First, I want to make sure you are aware you are in no way obligated to help us with our investigation. Second, should you choose to volunteer your cooperation I am prepared to give you and your family the very best protection my agents can provide. We already have several safe houses picked out for their discrete locations and ease of protection. I am also open to any demands you might have regarding the matter. I will give you some time to think on it,” Hastings said leaning back in her chair.
“No need,” Miranda waved her hand. “My demands are simple. Andréa continues as my assistant. She would be the most qualified person to protect me as she knows nearly everything about me. She has proven to be the most competent assistant I have ever had and I am confident she will protect me just as well. I do, however, want your best team with my girls at all times.”
“I can agree to that and I’m positive agent Sachs will as well.”
“I also do not wish to stay anywhere other than my own home. I do not want a parade of people coming in or out.”
“Ms. Priestly, while I am certain you would be more comfortable to stay in your own home I would advise you to consider the safe houses and how well we can protect you where the enemy does not know you dwell. You are a very public icon.”
“I am aware of my societal standing, no need to state the obvious. But if you want my cooperation those are my terms and I will not budge on them.”
“Fine, you will have one agent in the house at all times.”
“Andréa will be the only agent allowed in my home unless there is an immediate danger she needs backup for.”
Andy noticed the signs of a migraine flaring up and before things got any more heated stepped in. “It’s alright, I would prefer to be the one looking after Miranda and the girls while they are at home. I will continue in my assignment as her assistant as well. I would like to request Tash and Greg as part of the detail. Also, Miranda’s driver, Roy, is to remain as our transportation. I believe if we get someone else into Runway, perhaps via maintenance or front desk security or even reception, it would be beneficial.”
“You’ll have all three and I will make Natasha and Gregory available as well. Anything else?”
“Yes. We don’t needlessly put Miranda or her girls in danger,” Andy leaned over her hands on the desk and looked her boss square in the eye. She knew her dark orbs were the easiest way to read her and she knew right now they were flashing dangerously at her boss.
Hastings regarded her agent carefully. “You have my word. If that’s all, I believe you have several magazines to run now,” Hastings finished and dismissed them.
A couple hours later Andy was sitting at her desk rearranging Miranda's schedule to accommodate a staff meeting with each editor of the magazines under Elias-Clark when Emily walked in on her crutches. "Bloody hell, you're still here?" she shrieked.
The brunette smiled widely at the Brit, "Yes I am, so sorry to disappoint you. There's a meeting in Miranda's office in," she checked her watch. "Fifteen minutes, so you're..."
"Already late. Bollocks!" she muttered and hobbled into the editor's office where most of the staff was already waiting with Andy close behind making sure she didn't fall on her face in her hurry.
"Right, now that everyone's here," Miranda glared at her two assistants. "As most of you are aware Mr. Ravitz has been removed as CEO and the board has offered me the position. I'd be a fool not to take it; so naturally, you're looking at the new CEO of Elias-Clark publications. Now, I'm sure you are all wondering where that leaves Runway. We are in the middle of our next issue so for the time being I will still be your editor. As for the next issue, we will be making two replacements in house. Nigel will take over as editor in chief and Emily will move into his position as art director. The next few weeks will be rough and long but I expect the same quality of work from all of you. That's all," she waved dismissing everyone. "Nigel, Emily, Alexandréa a word."
Once her door was shut, she took her glasses off and looked at the three of them. "Emily, find a replacement for yourself and shadow Nigel for the next few weeks. Alexandréa will help you train your replacement. Nigel, you will edit the book and I will edit your edits. That's all."
Emily left the room to get started going through resumes from human resources. Andy was almost to the door when Nigel spoke. "Did you tell her?" he asked knowing that there would be no way the younger woman would still be "employed" if she hadn't.
"Shut the door."
Andy knew that Miranda meant for her to stay, leaving hadn't even crossed her mind. She sighed and slowly shut the door taking her time to compose herself. There was no doubt in her mind that she would face a very moody Miranda for the rest of the day and probably when they left as well. Her hand lingered on the door until it clicked and she turned around. The older woman's eyes were cold and narrowed. "You told him." It wasn't a question and suddenly she felt like she had that night not so long ago in Miranda's suite in Paris.
"I really gave her no choice," Nigel tried to defend her.
"No, no. She can defend herself," Miranda glared at him briefly causing him to wither where he stood.
This was it. Andy took a deep breath. If she backed down now she stood no chance of keeping Miranda in her life. This woman needed an equal, someone who could stand their ground and not tremble from fear. Nigel's wise words echoed in her head. Was Miranda, the woman, worth the scathing and sometimes degradingly cruel tongue lashings she might receive from the Dragon Lady? Her answer was a resounding yes, without a doubt she would withstand the fire which was why she dared to walk straight up to the older woman.
"Please, let me explain," Andy began speaking. "It was right after I left you in Paris. The FBI put me up in a hotel room until I could catch my flight and he managed to track me down. I was quite surprised since they didn't use either my real name not my cover. He knew that leaving like that was not something I would normally do and he was right. I'm not a runner but I realized I couldn't stay either seeing you every day after what I had confessed to you."
"Especially after the things I had said to you," Miranda seemed to deflate.
Andy stepped forward and took the older woman's head in her hands forcing her to look up. "No, what you said you said because you felt hurt and cornered and you lashed out at the most convenient target. It very well could have been Nigel you lashed out at had he come to see you. I am in love with you, Miranda. I have been for some time and I knew that if I had stayed I would need to tell you everything. I lied to you for so long," Andy sighed looking down at her feet briefly. She felt awful.
"You were afraid."
The agent nodded in confirmation and swallowed the lump in her throat. How she could ever think Miranda would feel so negatively toward her? This woman standing before her was nothing but understanding. "I was thinking about my job and the case. But if I'm really honest, I was afraid you'd feel betrayed and disappointed and I couldn't handle that."
"Oh, Andréa, darling I'm only disappointed you thought I could not accept it. I, of all people, understand the importance of your job."
"I know that and I realize now that I'm more disappointed in myself; how I reacted and didn't trust you.”
Miranda nodded and took a step back. The younger woman felt a brief moment of rejection but pushed it away. She knew that the older woman needed to compose herself and she shouldn't take it personally. They did have a lot of work ahead of them. "That's all."
Andy took the dismissal in stride knowing they'd talk more later and went to her desk leaving Nigel in Miranda's office. She watched out of the corner of her eyes as he cocked his head to the side. She didn't hear what was said but she did see the older woman wave him off and sit down at her desk to start working.
They were in the car on their way to Miranda's townhouse enjoying the comfortable silence after the hectic day. As they got closer, Andy realized there was a large gathering of paparazzi out front. "Roy, after we drop Miranda, circle around the block, I'll sneak in the back," she suggested with a soft sigh. It wasn't like she wanted to avoid being seen with the gorgeous older woman beside her but she quickly realized that's what it seemed like.
She saw the disappointment when Miranda's eyes when she looked at her. "Yes, perhaps you are right. We don't want to give them the wrong idea," her tone had turned more acerbic as she spoke.
The brunette realized Miranda probably thought she was changing her mind and backtracked. "I don't have any problem being seen with you. I know your life is very public even though you are a private person. It cannot be helped and I know that it's part of the package. My concern is for your safety. If people start digging too much they might figure out that I'm FBI and it could put you and the girls in danger and I don't want that."
Miranda's gaze softened and she nodded. Roy stopped the car to let her out and she put her famous sunglasses on to avoid the bright lights. "Any comment on Irv Ravits? Was he really skimming the books? Did you know about the charges? Did the board plan on making you CEO and simply saw this as an opportunity to oust Ravitz?" The questions all reached Andy's ears before the door was shut. Roy pulled away from the curb and circled around the block letting Andy out on the street behind the townhouse. "Thanks, Roy. We'll see you at seven sharp. Good night."
"Good night Andy."
The agent skillfully maneuvered around the back to the gate where Miranda was waiting to let her in. She smiled and locked the gate behind her. "Thanks," she said when Miranda took one of her bags. She brought several items from her apartment and the closet to make her stay more comfortable. "Greg and Tash will be here around nine. They'll be across the street in one of the loft apartments. A ground team will also be doing sweeps every few hours by car and foot."
"Lovely," Miranda replied wryly.
"It's for your protection, Mira," Andy said following her into the house. She only realized her faux pas when the older woman looked at her oddly. "Sorry," she sighed and shut the back door that led to the kitchen.
Miranda shook her head. "Acceptable,” she smiled softly and Andy beamed back at her relieved the nickname didn't seem to bother her. "But only when not at work."
"Of course," Andy nodded.
"Are you hungry, darling? You can put your things in my room, third door on right on the second floor passed the study."
"Starving actually."
"I'll order us something while you get changed. You're welcome to shower or take a bath if you would like. There are towels in the linen closet in the bathroom."
"Thank you, that sounds wonderful but if I do that I'll be in there for far too long and we need to talk. I'll just change and be down in a few minutes."
Miranda nodded and Andy went upstairs following the former blonde's directions to her bedroom. It was a mix of golden champagne, deep burgundy and brandy colors, warm yet vibrant and somehow completely Miranda. The brunette moved to the closet to hang her wardrobe. She locked her gun case and placed it on the right side of the bed assuming that the left was the former blonde's since her glasses and an open book were sitting on the bedside table. She changed into an old pair of sweats and an FBI t-shirt before returning downstairs. Miranda was sitting at the kitchen island with two glasses of wine.
"So, what did you order?"
"Italian. I noticed you skipped lunch today."
Andy nodded. "Not intentional I just wanted to make sure your day ran smoothly."
"I know. You're quite good at that."
"Well, that is my job," Andy smiled looking up through her lashes.
"Is that why you do it?" Miranda smirked back.
"No. That stopped being a reason a month after my being with you," Andy confessed meeting the older woman's gaze. "My days became less and less about doing the job you hired me to do and more about making you happy in any way possible even if it was just by making sure your day ran smoothly or your coffee was waiting for you after a particularly long meeting. Every once in a while the corners of your mouth would lift in a small smile unnoticeable to anyone else who didn't know what to look for."
"And you did?"
"I've spent the better part of twenty four hours a day for months studying you for different reasons, so yes; I know what to look for."
"Is that Andréa my assistant talking or Andréa the FBI agent talking?"
Andy smiled softly. "It's just Andréa. Just me. I happen to be quite observant. It certainly helps in my line of work. I can profile a suspect quicker than most of our analysts."
"So why stay in the field?"
The brunette shrugged. "Paper work has never been my strong suit. The desk life just isn't for me, at least not right now."
Miranda nodded and the doorbell rang interrupting their conversation. The former blonde went to get their food and pay for their order. Andy could smell it from here and her mouth was already watering. "Mushroom risotto, classic carbonara, and spinach and ricotta tortellini in a roasted tomato sauce."
"Sounds delicious. Did you get dessert?"
"Of course, darling. You aren't the only observant one. I believe the chocolate covered cannoli and tiramisu are your favorite."
"A woman after my own heart."
"Correction, a woman after your heart," Miranda smiled at her and started plating their dinner.
"You know, I find myself unable to keep my eyes off you and quite surprised at how you react to me."
"I know," the older woman said simply. "I can almost feel it when you look at me."
"Really?"
"Oh yes, darling. It makes me feel hot and tingly all over. You've gotten under my skin, Andréa."
"The feeling is mutual, I assure you."
"Good. Here. Eat. As for how I react to you, it’s hard to explain. You bring about a sense of peace and calm I’ve never known before.”
“I know what you mean, I’ve never felt the way I feel about you toward anyone else I’ve ever met or been with.”
“Good to know. What's it like being an agent?"
"It's a lot like being in the military. It’s ten rigorous weeks of classroom learning, on hands learning, combat training, arms training, and psychoanalyzing. We had to pick our top three field office choices the first week we were there and didn't find out where we were going until graduation. Most agents up and move every three to five years but I prefer New York. It's home. I'm good at undercover work and profiling suspects."
"And you like undercover work?"
"I love it."
"It's quite dangerous. Do you think you'd ever give it up?"
"It can be dangerous, yes. And I think if I had good reasons, yes I would give it up."
"And what would those reasons be?"
"I don't think that's something we are ready to discuss just yet."
"Fair enough," Miranda replied and they ate in a comfortable silence. "Andréa," the former blonde spoke softly gaining Andy's attention. "Where do you see this headed?"
The brunette carefully set her utensils down and wiped her mouth. "Honestly? I haven't given it much thought. We've just established that we both having feelings for each other and I'm not asking you for any sort of commitment right now but I guess it would be good to talk about the things we want from life," Andy said looking into stormy orbs and reaching for the older woman's hand.
"I love you."
"Mira..."
Miranda held up her hand. "Please, darling. I know you did not ask me to reciprocate and I am not doing it out of some sense of obligation. I love you and it scares the hell out of me. I do not want another failed relationship so I need to know that you are in this with me."
"Mira, I want nothing more than to be with you and I promise you that I'll stay as long as you'll have me even when you are the Dragon Lady."
"Why ever would you want the Dragon Lady to be around?"
"Well first of all, she's down right sexy and secondly, she's part of you. I love you; therefore, I love the Dragon Lady too. And to answer your question from a little bit ago, my family would be my reason. I want a family and my current life isn't conducive to that dream. That's what I'd give up my career for."
Fandom: the Devil Wears Prada
Pairing: Miranda/Andy
Rating: M
Summary: AU - Andy must lie to Miranda to do her job and bring down an elaborate crime ring involving Irv Ravitz. Circumstances will force Andy back into Miranda's professional and personal life whether the editor wants it or not. Will she be able to trust the brunette and let her in to her heart?
Disclaimers: Not mine, obviously. Just taking them out of the box for entertainment and will return them when finished (or not).
A/N: This chapter gave me a bit of an issue until I got about halfway through it and on to their personal conversation toward the end. Enjoy! Please R&R.
Andy was slowly roused from her very nice dream by a soft warm breath against her ear and a pleasant weight against her right side. She blinked and rubbed her eyes with her free hand. Her eyes drifted downward and landed on soft white hair mused from sleep. She continued her perusal of their current sleeping arrangement. Miranda's head was nestled on her shoulder and her hand was resting on her breast; funny how she was actually dreaming about something similar to this. "Oh God!" the brunette bit her lower lip and moaned softly as Miranda's hand was now massaging her breast. She clenched her thighs and tried to think of a way to extract herself from the very intimate and pleasing embrace even though she didn't want to. It was both torture and ecstasy.
She slowly sat up and started to scoot away but the older woman simply moved her hand to Andy's waist and pulled her firmly to her body. The warmth and scent of gardenias and sandalwood washed over her. The brunette sighed at the contented feeling that wormed itself into her very soul and simply gathered there. Then, Miranda's hand was on her breast again and making her extremely aroused as she tried stifling the moans that were being emitted from her mouth. Andy needed to put some space between them right now or she could not be held responsible for her actions. The brunette made deliberate movements to try and wake the other woman but when Miranda’s hand rubbed and squeezed again she moaned loudly and could no longer control her breathing.
"Andréa?” the agent opened her eyes at the sound of her name. So soft and sultry as it left the older woman’s lips it also sent a jolt straight to her core. God, everything about this woman is sexy. She groaned inwardly. “Is everything alright?" Miranda asked with concern in her stormy orbs.
"F-fine,” Andy stuttered aware of just how turned on she sounded. “Just, if you could remove your hand, please," she groaned slamming her eyes shut when that same hand inadvertently rubbed across her nipple. “Jesus…” the breath left her lungs in a soft gasp.
"What?" Miranda looked down at her hand grasping Andy's breast a bit firmly. "Oh, goodness! I apologize, darling," she pushed herself up so she was now resting above the younger woman. A blush crept its way up Miranda neck and into her cheeks.
Once her hand was removed, Andy slowly opened her eyes again and tried to get her breathing under control. She reached her free hand up to caress Miranda's cheek. "While I do enjoy your hands on me, I don't think we are quite ready for that," Andy spoke gently.
She knew her voice was slightly lower and a bit raspy. Miranda visibly shivered and leaned down to plant her lips softly to the brunette's. Good to know I’m not the only one affected. Their lips moved slowly and tenderly until the older woman pulled away placing a chaste kiss to the side of her mouth. "You are quite right," she sighed.
"I need to shower but I have a latte machine if you'd like me to make your coffee first," Andy smiled still stroking her cheek.
"Mmm, coffee. I would love some." Andy chuckled lightly and moved to get up. "No! Wait." The brunette was pulled into a sitting position on the edge of her bed. "We should talk."
"Okay," she smiled even though the brunette knew that what they needed to discuss was not something that could be rushed.
"You said you love me and I believe you. I know you are a genuine person. But why? Why me?" she asked wrapping her arms around Andy's torso.
"I could give you a million reasons, Miranda, but I doubt any of them would do how I feel justice." Andy sighed softly leaning into her embrace. "Love is beyond reason. Love is. It just is. I can't explain it right now; my brain is all mush because of you. Tonight?" she inquired hopefully.
"Yes. You can come to the townhouse. The girls are at their father's house until Spring Break is over."
"Okay. I really need to take that shower now though," Andy laughed.
"My apologies," Miranda smirked and the brunette had a feeling the older woman knew the effect she had on her.
"You ARE evil," Andy muttered and moved to get up.
She was unceremoniously pulled back down to the mattress and Miranda's lips attached to hers after she said, "I'll show you evil."
The brunette groaned when the older woman finally let her go. She hadn't wanted to move. Andy put the coffee on first so it would be ready and Miranda could enjoy her first cup while she took a cold shower. Much to her dismay, it only worked moderately. She would have to make it through the day perpetually aroused. She really hoped that wouldn’t become a pattern. She dressed in a smart black pinstripe Armani pant suit and matching vest with a lilac Donna Karan wrap shirt. Her make-up was light and her hair in soft curls.
When she emerged, Miranda was sitting at her small kitchen island enjoying her coffee already dressed and ready to go. Two strides in a pair of nude Blahniks into her kitchen caught the older woman's attention and Andy felt a small victory as she watched Miranda's eyes trail over her figure appreciatively. "Are you almost ready?" Andy asked walking to a cabinet and pulling out a travel mug for her coffee.
"Yeah...” a soft wet tongue snaked out to wet her lips. “I mean yes," Miranda's face flushed.
Andy chuckled softly and nodded without mentioning the sudden lapse in etiquette knowing full well Miranda would not appreciate it being pointed out. Instead, she grabbed a granola bar, her phone and texted Roy. "We'll go to see my superior first to discuss how we will handle this and then Runway."
"Alright, I'll inform Nigel to handle anything that comes up while we are busy."
The office was pretty quiet at this hour so thankfully they wouldn’t run in to too many people. Hastings was already in her office and by the looks of it waiting for them. The deputy director stood and straightened her pencil skirt before extending a hand to Miranda. The older woman merely looked at it and sat down. Andy really hoped her boss didn’t take that as disrespect. “Miranda this is Deputy Director Hastings, Deputy Director Hastings this lovely marvel of a business woman is Miranda Priestly.”
“A pleasure,” Hastings said politely. “I assume that agent Sachs has filled you in on some of the details of the case and her assignment?”
“Yes.” Miranda and Andy sat down in the chairs across from the deputy director’s desk.
“Are there any questions you have for me?” Hastings asked as she sat down.
“Why not tell me about this sooner? Why make her lie to me for nearly a year?”
“I suppose we could have read you in a lot sooner but then we might have put the case at risk. We had to make sure your interactions were as genuine as possible and didn’t draw suspicion toward our agent. You see, she was doing a lot of digging while at the Runway offices so late. You were completely eliminated as a suspect within the first week of her assignment. Quite the testament to her work ethic I believe. Irv was also quickly revealed though garnering the evidence took a little more time. We were trying to pin something more substantial on him when Andy here, found an exchange of emails detailing a drop off location and what the cargo included. Low and behold the cargo was women.”
“Human trafficking.”
“Yes. We have Irv’s full confession and every detail he knows or thinks would be pertinent to our investigation concerning Alexi Karoff. Now, I am aware that you will be taking the position of CEO and it is our worry that Karoff will approach you. First, I want to make sure you are aware you are in no way obligated to help us with our investigation. Second, should you choose to volunteer your cooperation I am prepared to give you and your family the very best protection my agents can provide. We already have several safe houses picked out for their discrete locations and ease of protection. I am also open to any demands you might have regarding the matter. I will give you some time to think on it,” Hastings said leaning back in her chair.
“No need,” Miranda waved her hand. “My demands are simple. Andréa continues as my assistant. She would be the most qualified person to protect me as she knows nearly everything about me. She has proven to be the most competent assistant I have ever had and I am confident she will protect me just as well. I do, however, want your best team with my girls at all times.”
“I can agree to that and I’m positive agent Sachs will as well.”
“I also do not wish to stay anywhere other than my own home. I do not want a parade of people coming in or out.”
“Ms. Priestly, while I am certain you would be more comfortable to stay in your own home I would advise you to consider the safe houses and how well we can protect you where the enemy does not know you dwell. You are a very public icon.”
“I am aware of my societal standing, no need to state the obvious. But if you want my cooperation those are my terms and I will not budge on them.”
“Fine, you will have one agent in the house at all times.”
“Andréa will be the only agent allowed in my home unless there is an immediate danger she needs backup for.”
Andy noticed the signs of a migraine flaring up and before things got any more heated stepped in. “It’s alright, I would prefer to be the one looking after Miranda and the girls while they are at home. I will continue in my assignment as her assistant as well. I would like to request Tash and Greg as part of the detail. Also, Miranda’s driver, Roy, is to remain as our transportation. I believe if we get someone else into Runway, perhaps via maintenance or front desk security or even reception, it would be beneficial.”
“You’ll have all three and I will make Natasha and Gregory available as well. Anything else?”
“Yes. We don’t needlessly put Miranda or her girls in danger,” Andy leaned over her hands on the desk and looked her boss square in the eye. She knew her dark orbs were the easiest way to read her and she knew right now they were flashing dangerously at her boss.
Hastings regarded her agent carefully. “You have my word. If that’s all, I believe you have several magazines to run now,” Hastings finished and dismissed them.
A couple hours later Andy was sitting at her desk rearranging Miranda's schedule to accommodate a staff meeting with each editor of the magazines under Elias-Clark when Emily walked in on her crutches. "Bloody hell, you're still here?" she shrieked.
The brunette smiled widely at the Brit, "Yes I am, so sorry to disappoint you. There's a meeting in Miranda's office in," she checked her watch. "Fifteen minutes, so you're..."
"Already late. Bollocks!" she muttered and hobbled into the editor's office where most of the staff was already waiting with Andy close behind making sure she didn't fall on her face in her hurry.
"Right, now that everyone's here," Miranda glared at her two assistants. "As most of you are aware Mr. Ravitz has been removed as CEO and the board has offered me the position. I'd be a fool not to take it; so naturally, you're looking at the new CEO of Elias-Clark publications. Now, I'm sure you are all wondering where that leaves Runway. We are in the middle of our next issue so for the time being I will still be your editor. As for the next issue, we will be making two replacements in house. Nigel will take over as editor in chief and Emily will move into his position as art director. The next few weeks will be rough and long but I expect the same quality of work from all of you. That's all," she waved dismissing everyone. "Nigel, Emily, Alexandréa a word."
Once her door was shut, she took her glasses off and looked at the three of them. "Emily, find a replacement for yourself and shadow Nigel for the next few weeks. Alexandréa will help you train your replacement. Nigel, you will edit the book and I will edit your edits. That's all."
Emily left the room to get started going through resumes from human resources. Andy was almost to the door when Nigel spoke. "Did you tell her?" he asked knowing that there would be no way the younger woman would still be "employed" if she hadn't.
"Shut the door."
Andy knew that Miranda meant for her to stay, leaving hadn't even crossed her mind. She sighed and slowly shut the door taking her time to compose herself. There was no doubt in her mind that she would face a very moody Miranda for the rest of the day and probably when they left as well. Her hand lingered on the door until it clicked and she turned around. The older woman's eyes were cold and narrowed. "You told him." It wasn't a question and suddenly she felt like she had that night not so long ago in Miranda's suite in Paris.
"I really gave her no choice," Nigel tried to defend her.
"No, no. She can defend herself," Miranda glared at him briefly causing him to wither where he stood.
This was it. Andy took a deep breath. If she backed down now she stood no chance of keeping Miranda in her life. This woman needed an equal, someone who could stand their ground and not tremble from fear. Nigel's wise words echoed in her head. Was Miranda, the woman, worth the scathing and sometimes degradingly cruel tongue lashings she might receive from the Dragon Lady? Her answer was a resounding yes, without a doubt she would withstand the fire which was why she dared to walk straight up to the older woman.
"Please, let me explain," Andy began speaking. "It was right after I left you in Paris. The FBI put me up in a hotel room until I could catch my flight and he managed to track me down. I was quite surprised since they didn't use either my real name not my cover. He knew that leaving like that was not something I would normally do and he was right. I'm not a runner but I realized I couldn't stay either seeing you every day after what I had confessed to you."
"Especially after the things I had said to you," Miranda seemed to deflate.
Andy stepped forward and took the older woman's head in her hands forcing her to look up. "No, what you said you said because you felt hurt and cornered and you lashed out at the most convenient target. It very well could have been Nigel you lashed out at had he come to see you. I am in love with you, Miranda. I have been for some time and I knew that if I had stayed I would need to tell you everything. I lied to you for so long," Andy sighed looking down at her feet briefly. She felt awful.
"You were afraid."
The agent nodded in confirmation and swallowed the lump in her throat. How she could ever think Miranda would feel so negatively toward her? This woman standing before her was nothing but understanding. "I was thinking about my job and the case. But if I'm really honest, I was afraid you'd feel betrayed and disappointed and I couldn't handle that."
"Oh, Andréa, darling I'm only disappointed you thought I could not accept it. I, of all people, understand the importance of your job."
"I know that and I realize now that I'm more disappointed in myself; how I reacted and didn't trust you.”
Miranda nodded and took a step back. The younger woman felt a brief moment of rejection but pushed it away. She knew that the older woman needed to compose herself and she shouldn't take it personally. They did have a lot of work ahead of them. "That's all."
Andy took the dismissal in stride knowing they'd talk more later and went to her desk leaving Nigel in Miranda's office. She watched out of the corner of her eyes as he cocked his head to the side. She didn't hear what was said but she did see the older woman wave him off and sit down at her desk to start working.
They were in the car on their way to Miranda's townhouse enjoying the comfortable silence after the hectic day. As they got closer, Andy realized there was a large gathering of paparazzi out front. "Roy, after we drop Miranda, circle around the block, I'll sneak in the back," she suggested with a soft sigh. It wasn't like she wanted to avoid being seen with the gorgeous older woman beside her but she quickly realized that's what it seemed like.
She saw the disappointment when Miranda's eyes when she looked at her. "Yes, perhaps you are right. We don't want to give them the wrong idea," her tone had turned more acerbic as she spoke.
The brunette realized Miranda probably thought she was changing her mind and backtracked. "I don't have any problem being seen with you. I know your life is very public even though you are a private person. It cannot be helped and I know that it's part of the package. My concern is for your safety. If people start digging too much they might figure out that I'm FBI and it could put you and the girls in danger and I don't want that."
Miranda's gaze softened and she nodded. Roy stopped the car to let her out and she put her famous sunglasses on to avoid the bright lights. "Any comment on Irv Ravits? Was he really skimming the books? Did you know about the charges? Did the board plan on making you CEO and simply saw this as an opportunity to oust Ravitz?" The questions all reached Andy's ears before the door was shut. Roy pulled away from the curb and circled around the block letting Andy out on the street behind the townhouse. "Thanks, Roy. We'll see you at seven sharp. Good night."
"Good night Andy."
The agent skillfully maneuvered around the back to the gate where Miranda was waiting to let her in. She smiled and locked the gate behind her. "Thanks," she said when Miranda took one of her bags. She brought several items from her apartment and the closet to make her stay more comfortable. "Greg and Tash will be here around nine. They'll be across the street in one of the loft apartments. A ground team will also be doing sweeps every few hours by car and foot."
"Lovely," Miranda replied wryly.
"It's for your protection, Mira," Andy said following her into the house. She only realized her faux pas when the older woman looked at her oddly. "Sorry," she sighed and shut the back door that led to the kitchen.
Miranda shook her head. "Acceptable,” she smiled softly and Andy beamed back at her relieved the nickname didn't seem to bother her. "But only when not at work."
"Of course," Andy nodded.
"Are you hungry, darling? You can put your things in my room, third door on right on the second floor passed the study."
"Starving actually."
"I'll order us something while you get changed. You're welcome to shower or take a bath if you would like. There are towels in the linen closet in the bathroom."
"Thank you, that sounds wonderful but if I do that I'll be in there for far too long and we need to talk. I'll just change and be down in a few minutes."
Miranda nodded and Andy went upstairs following the former blonde's directions to her bedroom. It was a mix of golden champagne, deep burgundy and brandy colors, warm yet vibrant and somehow completely Miranda. The brunette moved to the closet to hang her wardrobe. She locked her gun case and placed it on the right side of the bed assuming that the left was the former blonde's since her glasses and an open book were sitting on the bedside table. She changed into an old pair of sweats and an FBI t-shirt before returning downstairs. Miranda was sitting at the kitchen island with two glasses of wine.
"So, what did you order?"
"Italian. I noticed you skipped lunch today."
Andy nodded. "Not intentional I just wanted to make sure your day ran smoothly."
"I know. You're quite good at that."
"Well, that is my job," Andy smiled looking up through her lashes.
"Is that why you do it?" Miranda smirked back.
"No. That stopped being a reason a month after my being with you," Andy confessed meeting the older woman's gaze. "My days became less and less about doing the job you hired me to do and more about making you happy in any way possible even if it was just by making sure your day ran smoothly or your coffee was waiting for you after a particularly long meeting. Every once in a while the corners of your mouth would lift in a small smile unnoticeable to anyone else who didn't know what to look for."
"And you did?"
"I've spent the better part of twenty four hours a day for months studying you for different reasons, so yes; I know what to look for."
"Is that Andréa my assistant talking or Andréa the FBI agent talking?"
Andy smiled softly. "It's just Andréa. Just me. I happen to be quite observant. It certainly helps in my line of work. I can profile a suspect quicker than most of our analysts."
"So why stay in the field?"
The brunette shrugged. "Paper work has never been my strong suit. The desk life just isn't for me, at least not right now."
Miranda nodded and the doorbell rang interrupting their conversation. The former blonde went to get their food and pay for their order. Andy could smell it from here and her mouth was already watering. "Mushroom risotto, classic carbonara, and spinach and ricotta tortellini in a roasted tomato sauce."
"Sounds delicious. Did you get dessert?"
"Of course, darling. You aren't the only observant one. I believe the chocolate covered cannoli and tiramisu are your favorite."
"A woman after my own heart."
"Correction, a woman after your heart," Miranda smiled at her and started plating their dinner.
"You know, I find myself unable to keep my eyes off you and quite surprised at how you react to me."
"I know," the older woman said simply. "I can almost feel it when you look at me."
"Really?"
"Oh yes, darling. It makes me feel hot and tingly all over. You've gotten under my skin, Andréa."
"The feeling is mutual, I assure you."
"Good. Here. Eat. As for how I react to you, it’s hard to explain. You bring about a sense of peace and calm I’ve never known before.”
“I know what you mean, I’ve never felt the way I feel about you toward anyone else I’ve ever met or been with.”
“Good to know. What's it like being an agent?"
"It's a lot like being in the military. It’s ten rigorous weeks of classroom learning, on hands learning, combat training, arms training, and psychoanalyzing. We had to pick our top three field office choices the first week we were there and didn't find out where we were going until graduation. Most agents up and move every three to five years but I prefer New York. It's home. I'm good at undercover work and profiling suspects."
"And you like undercover work?"
"I love it."
"It's quite dangerous. Do you think you'd ever give it up?"
"It can be dangerous, yes. And I think if I had good reasons, yes I would give it up."
"And what would those reasons be?"
"I don't think that's something we are ready to discuss just yet."
"Fair enough," Miranda replied and they ate in a comfortable silence. "Andréa," the former blonde spoke softly gaining Andy's attention. "Where do you see this headed?"
The brunette carefully set her utensils down and wiped her mouth. "Honestly? I haven't given it much thought. We've just established that we both having feelings for each other and I'm not asking you for any sort of commitment right now but I guess it would be good to talk about the things we want from life," Andy said looking into stormy orbs and reaching for the older woman's hand.
"I love you."
"Mira..."
Miranda held up her hand. "Please, darling. I know you did not ask me to reciprocate and I am not doing it out of some sense of obligation. I love you and it scares the hell out of me. I do not want another failed relationship so I need to know that you are in this with me."
"Mira, I want nothing more than to be with you and I promise you that I'll stay as long as you'll have me even when you are the Dragon Lady."
"Why ever would you want the Dragon Lady to be around?"
"Well first of all, she's down right sexy and secondly, she's part of you. I love you; therefore, I love the Dragon Lady too. And to answer your question from a little bit ago, my family would be my reason. I want a family and my current life isn't conducive to that dream. That's what I'd give up my career for."