Title: Secret Lives

Author: Stephanie M

Feedback: Sure, I love to hear from readers.

Fandom: La Femme Nikita

Main characters: Birkoff, Michael.

Category: Drama/Adventure.

Disclaimer: Do not own any of the characters from the series La Femme Nikita. They belong to people with far more money and power than I.

Secret Lives
by Stephanie M

"I'm afraid I some disturbing news, Michael and Birkoff are dead," Madeline said through the intercom, her voice calm and unfeeling as always.

All the Section staff froze in shock, unable to believe that the pair had died. Many had always considered Michael to be the perfect agent, one who would takeover when Operations quit. The news of his death caused many to realise that everyone even the best was only human and would die sometime.

Birkoff was a man they had come to depend on in Section; often it was the hacker's genius that saved them when it looked bleak. With Birkoff gone, people couldn't help but wonder who was going to take his place.

In the back of the armoury Walter sat crying, unable to believe the man he considered to be his son was dead. Every fibre of his body was calling out for revenge; and he would have it no matter what.

Nikita strolled in and walked straight over to the armoury seeing the older man in tears, she ran over to him worried. What could make Walter cry? He never let anyone see him cry.

Nikita asked full of concern,"What's wrong, Walter?"

"B...Birkoff is dead!" Walter answered, before breaking down in tears again.

Nikita asked in confusion "What...but how?" How could something so terrible happen? Birkoff wasn't supposed to get hurt, he was supposed to be safe!

"I don't know! It was on the mission," Walter said wiping the tears from his eyes, not wanting to upset her.

Nikita asked not having been informed of any mission, "What mission?"

Managing to rein in his emotions Walter said, "Michael and Birkoff were asked to come in last night, they were in a briefing for hours. Birkoff got a gun from me. A gun, Sugar! Ya know what that means?"

Realising that Michael was also on the mission Nikita said, "It means whatever it was dangerous, something really bad. Operations never lets Birkoff carry a gun. Is Michael okay?"

"He was killed too. I'm sorry, Sugar." Walter said softly.

Nikita broke down realising that she had lost not only the man she loved but also the man she considered to be her brother. Her tears were the last straw for Walter who started crying, the pair held each other knowing it was the only kindness they could expect in Section.
*******
"How will this affect performance?" Operations asked coolly as he observed the agents below.

Madeline said thoughtfully,"The levels will drop a little but once everyone has adjusted they will be back to normal. We will have to keep an eye on Nikita and Walter. I advise giving Nikita her own material, that way she won't be able to focus on her grief."

"Do it. I'm surprised they haven't come up and asked us about it." Operations said leaving no question as to whom he was walking about.

"It's too fresh right now. I expect both Walter and Nikita to for details within in the next week." Madeline answered giving one of her Mona Lisa smiles.

Seven Hours Previous

"Hey Walter. I've come to get a gun for the next mission." Birkoff said as he walked over to the ammunitions expert.

Walter grinned at Birkoff's enthusiasm, "So you're on a mission. What is it?"

"I'm afraid that is top secret." Michael said as he walked over, making Walter jump.

Seeing the tiny shakes wracking Birkoff's body, Michael gently squeezed Birkoff's shoulder. He could feel Walter staring at him and Birkoff in confusion. Michael moved back to allow the young man to talk with his friend, something he didn't need to do.

Walter looked from the Michael to Birkoff, confused at the display of affection; he hadn't seen Michael be affectionate in public since Simone. Hell, Michael wasn't even affectionate with Nikita. Walter didn't know what Michael was up to and didn't care; he wouldn't allow Birkoff to get hurt in another Section game.

Walter asked his voice full of false cheer, "So will you be backing time for Sugar's party?"

"We won't be back in time," Birkoff answered hugging the armourer.

"Maybe Sugar will have another party when you come back." Walter said not wanting to upset his friend.

Birkoff grinned cheerfully, "Maybe."

"Here's your gun, I've put a case in the van." Walter said with a smile.

"Come on, Birkoff. We still have to go through the profile," Michael said, not wanting to prolong the goodbyes.

"Are you going to leave a message for Nikita?" Michael asked, knowing the blonde was on downtime.

"I'll leave it at my place; she's bound to get it sometime," Birkoff answered as the pair walked inside his quarters at Section.

The room was full metal and white the same as the rest of Section. Birkoff had become so accustomed to the décor of Section that he didn't even consider decorating. The only thing that marked this place, as home were the shelves. They were full of spare parts of machines Birkoff had played with when he had nothing better to do with his time. On the middle shelf directly opposite the bed stood a photograph of Birkoff, Walter, Michael and Nikita.

"Anything you want to take?" Michael asked, gently not wanting to upset the younger man.

"I've got everything I need on my laptop." Birkoff answered placing a mini-disc on the shelf next to the photograph. He had made the disc with messages to the important people in his life years ago, just in case.

"We have to go." Michael said, picking up the briefcase holding the laptop.
*******
Climbing into the driver's seat, Michael fastened his seatbelt watching as Birkoff did the same. Then he drove towards the location as when they were two hours away from Section, Michael heard his PDA beep. Picking it up, he quickly read the message, 'When you reach the end of the next street, get out of the van. Proceed to the following address.'

"Grab your case; we need to leave the van." Michael said as he got out of the van.

The pair walked quickly through the streets, sticking to the back alleys where they wouldn't be seen. The address turned out to be a crowded bar, which Michael recognised as one of the busiest gay bars in the city.

"Nice to finally meet you, Michael. I take it this is the friend you got out with. So are you ready to leave? I've found you someplace to stay." A tall blonde man said his face effectively covered by the cap he was wearing.

"More than ready, James. Are you sure it's safe?" Michael answered, he didn't like staying out in the open like this, and he liked to have Birkoff in the open even less.

"Yeah, follow me outside." James said figuring out that he wasn't going to get much out of them.
*******
Present

"Seymour, we're here. Time to wake up," Michael said as he gently shook the young man.

"I'm awake, quit it already." Birkoff answered quickly grinning widely at the Frenchman.

"Paul, I've got some more foundlings for you! This is Birkoff and Michael." James yelled as he directed the pair into the house.

Paul Jackson was a tall, tanned, brunette man in his early thirties yet his face seemed unmarked by age. But his eyes showed the pain he had experienced, his eyes were dead. As if a part of him had died, Birkoff felt as he looked at the stranger.

"Nice to meet you Mr Jackson." Michael said, keeping one arm around Birkoff's shoulders.

"Nice to meet you too. Michael, Birkoff would you like to have breakfast with me?" Paul replied cheerfully.

The four men walked into the dining room in silence, as they walked Michael looked over at Birkoff to make sure the younger man was okay. Birkoff had been too quiet since they had left Section, like he was expecting something terrible to happen.

"So how do you know these two?" Paul asked James as he watched the pair through the small crack in the kitchen door, under the pretence of making breakfast.

"They were Section, Operations was planning on cancelling them. Michael got them out and they came to me. I had already told him I might know of somewhere they could hide." James answered with a grin.

"You know who they remind me of? Me and Alex, look at the way Michael is watching Birkoff." Paul said seconds before he had James walked into the dining room.

They returned to find Michael holding a sobbing Birkoff. Paul acting on instinct and tried to get closer but the glare from Michael stopped him. They listened, transfixed as Michael tried to calm his friend.

Michael said his voice soothing and gentle, "Sey, its okay. We're safe, I promise."

"B.But what if they come after us? What if they get you, Michael?" Birkoff answered still sobbing.

"We're going to be okay, I promise cher." Michael said as he captured Birkoff's lips with his own.

'The kiss was hard yet gentle, a contradiction just like Michael,' Birkoff thought to himself with a mental grin. He moaned as Michael's tongue begged entrance, their tongues duelled for a couple of minutes until they broke apart feeling someone watching them. Across the room, Paul found himself unable to stop himself from watching the scene. The pair were so tender with each other, obviously willing to do anything for the other.

"I'm sorry for breaking down on you like that." Birkoff said as he looked over at the two men watching them and blushed.

"Your friend is right; you are safe in my home." Paul said smiling at the pair.

Michael said giving a nod in thanks, "Thank you, Mr Jackson. Have you got anywhere Sey can rest?"

"James, take Mr Birkoff to the silver room." Paul instructed, knowing that Michael had something he wanted to talk about.
*******
"So what do you have to talk to me about?" Paul asked as he sat down, making himself comfortable as he regarded the agent in front of him.

His expressionless eyes focused on the other man Michael replied calmly, "I figured you had questions and I don't want Sey upset. I'll answer as many as I can."

His voice making it clear what he was asking Paul said, "I must say I am surprised to hear that Section decided to get rid of you. I mean you're the heir of Section."

Michael sighed and said calmly, "It wasn't me they wanted to kill originally, Operations just wanted to kill Sey. I found out and stopped them; I guess they decided I had interfered too much because we were sent on a suicide mission."

"I take it you have not informed your.lover?" Paul said, not sure what term of address he should use.

Michael said softly, "I couldn't. Sey would have insisted I let him get killed and stay alive. He would have made me promise, and I can't break a promise to him."

"You can stay, why don't you go to bed? I've got some arrangements to make," Paul said as James walked into the room.

"So what do you think of their story?" Paul asked James as he turned around to face the younger man.

"I can check it out, don't worry." James replied as he sat down and reached for the phone.
*******
"You okay, Sey?" Michael asked gently as he got into the bed, the cool sheets hitting his bare skin made him shiver.

"No, I'm not." Birkoff replied as he nestled into Michael's arms.

Michael asked willing to do anything to help, "What hurts?"

"Everything." Birkoff said softly, tears beginning to fall down his face.

"Don't cry, love. It's going to be okay." Michael said as he hugged Birkoff tightly, ignoring the tears falling from the younger man's face.

Michael gently kissed Birkoff's face, kissing away the tears and the pain. He hated to see Birkoff in pain, but he felt helpless.

"You look tired. Want to sleep, love?" Michael said as he saw the exhaustion on his lover's face.

"Only if you hold me." Birkoff replied with a wide grin.

"Always. Bien nuit," Michael whispered into Birkoff's ear, before kissing the top of his lover's head.

Six days later

Nikita felt numb, she couldn't find the energy to bother anymore. She was alive and did her job but she couldn't seem to feel anything. The only reason why she was doing her job was in the hope that someday she would meet whoever had killed Michael and Birkoff and revenge would be hers.

"Sugar, can you come with me? They want to clean out Birkoff's room. I want to do it but I can't do it alone." Walter said somewhere to her left.

"Sure, let me just finish this report." Nikita said as she saved the file and stood.

Looking at Walter she couldn't help but notice how old the man looked. It was as if he had given up when Birkoff was killed. But then she had given up in a way; she no longer cared to make friends all she wanted was to get the job done.

Nikita took Walter's arm and the pair walked down the corridor to Birkoff's quarters. Once there they just stared at the door, hoping they would be able to get through it without breaking.

As Nikita looked around the room she noted that unlike the rest of Section the place had a comforting feel. Despite how it appeared, Birkoff had made the room home. She looked at the picture trying to guess where it had been taken, and then she remembered it had been on Birkoff's birthday when the four had held a party at her apartment to celebrate.

Walter was busy placing many of Birkoff's inventions in a box, smiling as he remembered just how excited Birkoff had been about them.

"What you looking at Sugar?" Walter asked, noticing the first smile on her face since they had heard about their friends' death.

"Just a photo of the four of us. That was a good party wasn't it? Birky looked so happy." Nikita said with a wistful smile.

"It was great. What's that?" Walter asked as he noticed the small disc.

Nikita looked at it, her dilemma obvious on her face. "It must be Birkoff's, it was next to the picture. Should we look at it?"

"I think we're supposed to. We'll have to go to your place." Walter said picking up the boxes, as he stood up he fell back onto the bed.

The two quickly left Section and sped to her apartment, each one wondering just what Birkoff had wanted them to know. Had he known who was going to kill him? Placing the tiny disc into her computer, Nikita quickly accessed it and stared at the screen in shock.

On it where three files, addressed to herself, Walter and Michael. As she looked at the computer, Nikita wondered why Birkoff had left a message to Michael. The pair had never really been that close, they had a professional relationship and that was all. She pressed the file marked with her name and looked at the letter on the screen.

Nikita,

If you are reading this then I've died. My only request is that you don't feel angry either with yourself or anyone else. I just wanted to say that I love you; you were the sister I always wanted.

I'm only sorry that I have no words of consolation to offer you, all I can say is I love you and wish you well. Your love of life is one of the most beautiful things about you. Don't ever lose it.

Love,
Birkoff.

Moving away from the computer in tears, Nikita let Walter access his message knowing that Walter needed to see this last message from his friend.

Hey Walter,

I guess it finally happened, I died. I love you, man. I'll be keeping an eye on you, if only to see your latest crush. I have only one thing to ask of you and that is that you watch over Nikita, she is one of the most important people in my life.

Love,
Birkoff.

"What should we do about Michael's message?" Walter asked, feeling they shouldn't look at it as it was meant only for Michael's eyes.

"We should read it; it might help us find out just who killed them." Nikita said, noting that the file had been updated just a week ago.

Nikita clicked on the file and stared at the screen in anger, it was asking for a password! She couldn't help but feel curious, just what was so important that it had to have extra security while the other messages had none?

"Looks like we can't get in," Walter commented wondering if she would drop the cause.

"I'll try some of the most obvious ones." Nikita said typing in the name of Michael's wife and son. She even tried her own name to no avail, she couldn't think of anything. Giving up she walked away from the computer and poured two long drinks of scotch.

Before she could take a sip she heard Walter shout, "We're in but it's encrypted."

"What's so special that only Michael can see it?" Nikita asked aloud.

"Let me try something," Walter said as he reached into the case of computer discs in the box with the rest of Birkoff's personal items. Five hours later they had finally broke the encoding only to find the message was entirely in French.

Nikita pressed a couple of keys and the letter was translated into English, she knew a little French but not enough to read the letter.

Michael,

I sit here while you sleep; hoping and praying you never read this message. If you are I'm dead or missing, neither is a desirable option. In a weird way I hope I am dead simply to spare you the pain of not knowing.

If I have been captured, don't come after me. Michael, do not go after whoever killed me! Yes, I know your plan, I always do. Please do not put yourself in danger over me. I do not want you to die as well, my angel.

Who we would have imagined we would last this long, especially in Section? Four wonderful years filled with love and joy. I want you to know this - you gave my life meaning. It's a cliché but it's true. I remind you of our promise, go to our place and to think of me. Then move on, I cannot bear the thought of you spending your life alone.

I've got a orders for you, no surprise I know (!) Nikita is going to need someone to lean on and it must be you. I know you feel it is wrong to sleep with another, but remember what I told you? I don't mind you having sex with someone as l know about it. I'm a Section boy through and through, I don't expect monogamy.

I cannot believe I write you a letter to read after my death telling sleep with someone! But she needs someone to believe in and love. My love, I know you see this as a betrayal, but it isn't. I order you to do whatever is required to keep Nikita, Walter and yourself alive!

I know what Operations is like, if you show any signs of suffering they will take steps to remove the possible danger to them and kill you. This is a stupid thing to say but; I think my time is near. The date today is the 30th of December and I can't help but feel I will not live to see the next year.

The air has felt different for the last month, who knew Christmas was supposed to feel like death's cold embrace? That is the reason why I sit in here in the middle of the night, brushing the hair from your face as I write. I actually thought about telling you but I knew you would worry; and I couldn't risk affecting your performance. If your levels change Operations will look at you closely and we both know how dangerous that can be.

I guess the one thing left is to tell you to stop feeling guilty. Yes, you are don't try lying to me! I know your soul and heart as I know my own. I do not hate you for the time spent with anyone involved in your missions. I knew exactly what I was getting into when I fell in love with you.

I love you Michael.

Yours Eternally,
Sey.

Nikita looked at computer, unsure how to react. Birkoff had been seeing Michael for years and no one knew. But that didn't make sense; in Section you couldn't keep a secret that long, right?

"Did you know about them?" Nikita asked her voice shrill.

Walter looked at her before answering, "What.NO! When I saw them before the mission Michael was trying to comfort Birkoff. I figured it was because Birkoff had to take a gun, you know how much he hated them."

"Maybe it wasn't an accident, maybe Section had them killed," Nikita said as she started pacing.

"You know as well as I do missions go wrong," Walter answered knowing Section was probably recording their conversation.

"Yeah, I guess. Want to go and get something to eat?" Nikita said as she attached the small disc to a picture and placed a printout of the message in her bag.
*******
"We've found a disc hidden inside a vase, what are your orders?" The team leader said, into her com set, subdued like most of the operatives.

"Bring it to me, immediately." Madeline answered, before turning off her com set and looking over at Operations.

"Go over it at the briefing in two hours with all the field operatives." Operations replied with a smirk, it would not do to have his people treating him with so much disrespect.

"As you wish," Madeline replied sounding completely uninterested in what was happening.
********
"I would like to show you a message found on a disc in Michael's apartment. I'm going to give everyone a copy so they can see for themselves." Madeline stated as she got one of the support staff to hand out the papers.

Beloved,

I hope you actually read this, and are not as I fear dead. I have much I want to tell you and so much more I am frightened to say. I have spent years watching you sleep, and dream with that innocent smile on your face. It is while watching you I detest our job. Section is fine for me, I deserve it but you are too innocent and pure. Yes, pure (!) Go on, laugh I know you're dying to.

Perhaps it was the wrong thing to write but you always bring out my weird sense of humour. I guess the most important thing is that this is not your fault. It doesn't matter how I died, it is not your fault. I know that you're in your comfortable chair arguing right now. This is no surprise, you always do (especially with me) and it is one of the things I adore about you.

It was clear from the first time we saw each other that there was a connection between us that couldn't be denied. It did not matter how much I tried, and try I did. I could not stand the thought to taking one as innocent as you and spoiling it as I was sure I would. You confronted me immediately, having far more courage than I.

I can still remember every detail of our first night outside Section. We have passed the night talking about everything and nothing. You revealed your fears, hopes and dreams but even more surprising I told you mine. That night is one of my most treasured memories; we shared a part of each other.

I feel guilty when I remember how I have betrayed you, sleeping with others while you waited or worse watched. You would just smile softly and say it was part of our work. Yet you cried when you had to sleep with another, to protect me, to protect us.

You pulled me through the greatest trials in my life, with little more than a glance or a tender touch. I continued to wait for you to tell me you've had enough and leave, not too surprising, just ask Madeline.

I want you to go to our place and remember the good times we have shared when they would give us down time and when we could loose our tails. Do not be sad for I have been blessed to have you in my life, my guiding light. Remember the love we share a love like no other. We will be together again for I do not believe God is cruel enough to part us for eternity.

Madeline and Operations have been acting strange lately. I think they know that everything is not as they envisaged. I am overjoyed that it is not, for otherwise we would not have had these years together.

There is now only one thought in my mind and it is you. I cannot help but think that if I am to die there is no better place than your arms, to know that we go together, as I fear it will happen. I feel angry at myself for doing this, sure that if not for me you would be safe and happy.

You have now a disapproving frown on your face, have you not? I know you believe you could not be happy without me and thankfully we will never know. I wouldn't have survived this long without you, I would have self-destructed to borrow your expression.

Even asleep you seem to read my mind, whispering my name gently and I love you. Three little words, we use them so often. I normally say them to another at least to three times a week but it only means something when I say it to you.

I love you Seymour, now and forever.

Always,
Michael.

"As you can see Michael and Birkoff where involved for a number of years. We will go through Birkoff's property and see just what that reveals." Madeline said glaring at Nikita and Walter obviously knowing they had been in Birkoff's quarters.

"Birkoff left a letter for Michael as well. It was in French but I translated it; I've got it here." Nikita said not showing her anger.

"Give me the letter, Nikita." Madeline said, taking the letter from the frozen Nikita, the profiler quickly displayed the letter on the many screens allowing everyone to read it.

Never noticing the looks of pure hate being directed his way Operations said calmly, "We suspected they had some sort of relationship when we tried to cancel Birkoff and Michael intervened. They were cancelled because they broke the rules, long term relationships between a field operative and another member of Section are not allowed."

The operatives looked at the leaders in disgust unable to believe what they had heard. A few people grasped the true reason for the cancellation of two of their number; Operations and Madeline were afraid that Michael would seek restitution after Birkoff's death, and Michael was the best with the powers to take the leaders down if he was motivated enough. What would motivate him more than the death of the man he was in love with and had been for a long time? In Section four years was a long time, longer than most operatives lived.

Walter was silently planning just how he was going to get revenge on Section. They had killed the man who was practically his adopted son because he had been in a relationship for four years! A relationship that hadn't affected their performance levels! In fact, Walter actually knew that their overall performance levels had gone up during that period.
*******
"What have you found out?" Jack said into the phone knowing they needed to know if the two men where a danger.

"Section decided to remove them when they found out about the relationship. Field operatives are not allowed to be involved in a long term relationship with anyone inside Section." A woman replied calmly.

"Very good, you will receive payment as usual." Jack replied as he ended the call.

He took out his phone and quickly dialled his boss, knowing Paul would be happy with the news. The pair would be perfect for their company and it wouldn't hurt having two of Section's own.

Jack said emotionlessly, "Their story checks out."

"Thank you for informing me." Paul said happily as he ended the call.
*******
"I have made my decision, you are welcome to stay here." Paul said as he looked at the two men in front of him.

"Thank you. I would like to work in your computer section to repay you." Birkoff said with a smile.

"I will help you in any way I can." Michael said gently wrapping his arms around Birkoff's waist.

Paul said looking them over critically, "I'm sure you will be wonderful additions to my business. I am in the business of security, removing problems for our clients. Why don't you two go into the city? You can borrow the Volvo."

"We would like that." Michael replied as he took the offered keys and walked Birkoff out the room.

"Do you think Section will be looking for us?" Birkoff asked as they walked through the house towards the underground garage.

Michael reassured, "Everything is okay, love. If Section thought we where alive they would be searching for us."

Birkoff said, "I'm just worried. Why did they decide to cancel you?"

Michael casually replied, "They were upset when I killed the op who was to cancel you."

"They tried to cancel me before?" Birkoff was unable to believe no one had told him.

"It happened two months ago, I asked Jack to see if he could find somewhere for us to stay." Michael said as they approached the car.

Birkoff protested, "You should have let them cancel me, then you would be alive."

"My body would be alive but I would be dead inside." Michael replied squeezing Birkoff's hand.
*******
Michael quickly guided the car through the streets, taking care not to draw any attention just in case. Beside him Birkoff was busy playing with the radio finally stopping on a classical station.

Michael got out of the car, quickly moving to Birkoff snaking an arm around the younger man's wait. He smiled as Birkoff started talking about the plans for the day. As they walked Michael arched an eyebrow, noticing the three people following them. Giving no sign that he had noticed anything untoward, Michael pressed the younger man into the wall. He wrapped an arm around Birkoff's neck, pulling the younger man's head down.

Michael gently kissed Birkoff's ear before whispering in French, "Two men and a woman, on my left."

"Section or Jackson?" Birkoff answered in the same language, running his hands over Michael's shirt making it appear that they were simply making out.

"I'm not sure." Michael said taking another look at three who were apparently uninterested in their current behaviour.

To draw the attention of their tail Birkoff said in his normal voice, "Come on, love. We can play later."

Keeping one arm around Birkoff's shoulders Michael said with a grin, "I'll hold you to that."

"No surprise there! " Birkoff said with a laugh as he moved his body even closer to the older man's.

"Do you want something to eat?" Michael said remembering that Birkoff hadn't eaten for the last day or so.

Birkoff asked with a smirk, "Can we go to Wendy's?"

"Whatever you want, love." Michael said with a smile.

"Cool!" Birkoff said pulling Michael towards the small diner.

Part 2

"What do you think of Jackson?" Birkoff asked between mouthfuls of food.

Michael considered the question carefully, "He’s cautious, paranoid even. He’s really interested in our relationship."

"Think he’ll try to seduce one of us?" Birkoff asked more curious than angry, monogamy was impossible considering their jobs.

Michael shook his head, "He’s still in love with Alex, remember what he said about us?"

"That we remind him of how he was with Alex. So maybe he envy’s us?" Birkoff knew how dangerous that could be.

"I’d say he’s jealous. Jealousy and power are a deadly combination." Michael said remembering how often that particular combination had been used to remove a target.

"Yeah, I’ve seen that firsthand. Do you think Nikita and Walter are okay?" Birkoff was worried knowing their "deaths" could result in their friends becoming careless.

Michael gently squeezed Birkoff’s hand whispering, "I’m sure they are. They’re together so they’ll look out for each other."

Birkoff said seriously, "I hope they got the letters I left. Shit, they are going to freak when they find the one I left for you."

"They’ll be confused and probably angry. Nikita will be ready to kill us herself, she’ll think we were playing with her."

Birkoff protested, "But we weren’t, we couldn’t do that."

"I know, love. But all she’ll see is betrayal," Michael said soothingly.

"Yeah. I mean it’s not like we could tell them the truth, they wouldn’t have been able to handle it and it would have been too dangerous."

"At least we’re together. We’ll see them someday, we just have to let everything cool down first."

"You think Jack’s going to give us in to Section?" Birkoff asked referring to one of the weapons dealers Michael knew, the man who had contacted James. The same James who had picked them up and brought them to stay with Jackson.

Michael said calmly, "He won’t tell anyone anything."

"Oh, is he dead?" Birkoff asked knowing it would be safer if he was.

Michael started, "Yeah, I think it was-."

Michael smiled apologetically as he answered the phone, "Hello."

"Michael, come back to base. I have a very important task for you." Jackson ordered coolly before ending the call.

"We have to get back, Sey. It sounds like we’ve got a job on." Michael said before walking over to pay for their food.

Birkoff smiled as he stood waiting out of view from the door, it was instinct more than anything else. Michael took the younger man’s hand in his leading the way out and back to their car.

"It’s not as busy as it was earlier." Birkoff commented as they walked knowing Michael would understand his meaning.

Michael nodded before saying, "Yeah, looks like everyone has disappeared."

Birkoff gently ran his thumb over the older man’s hand making it clear that he understood the confirmation Michael had just given him. Confirmation that Birkoff was right in saying that their tail had left.

Jackson said as the couple walked into the main room, "That was quick. I’m sorry for interrupting you but I need your help."

"Anything we can do, to help we will." Birkoff said seriously.

Jackson smiled slightly before giving them the details, "I’ve been informed that my lover, who I had believed was dead is being held by Red Cell. You two are going to retrieve him. Birkoff, I want you to get into their computer and find out who was involved in kidnapping him and what they did to him."

"When are we leaving?" Michael replied for both of them.

"In an hour. Come with me, I want to show you my control room." Jackson said before pressing a concealed button on the wall to reveal a retinal scanner.

Birkoff looked at Michael arching an eyebrow subtly asking if Michael had suspected there was a concealed room. Before Michael could reply Jackson ushered them into the room, walking inside Birkoff realised it was similar to the ops station in Section but the décor was oak and mahogany.

Jackson smiled at the two women busy working, "This is Sophie and Laura, they are the best computer operatives in the world."

Sophie, a petite woman with cinnamon hair was wearing in a green shirt and black pants. From the way the woman acted it was obvious that she was dangerous, there was a lot of power beneath her harmless façade.

Laura looked exactly like Nikita but there was a difference in the way she held herself, this woman seemed skittish and shy not at all like the confident Nikita. She looked at Birkoff and blushed nervously before returning to the screen.

Sophie smiled at Jackson, "Sir, we’ve got the mission profile you asked for."

"Thank you, Sophie. Do you see any problems?" Jackson said as he took the offered pad reading it quickly before passing it over to Michael.

Michael replied, "No. We should be in and out in twenty minutes, are we taking any medical staff?"

"No, I’ll have people standing by just bring him home." Jackson said seriously.

Michael carefully executed two of the guards patrolling the north side of the warehouse so that the pair could enter undetected. With a look a quick nod at his lover, Birkoff silently went off in the other direction towards the main computer.

Following the plan Jackson had provided Birkoff found the computer room, which only had two occupants. Using the shadows as cover, he glided into the room using both his guns to shoot the red cell operatives. The guns were loaded with a ketamine, a drug used as an anaesthetic, which would cause amnesia in its victims.

Once the drug had kicked in Birkoff typed in a series of commands into the computer, within seconds he had managed to isolate any reference to Jackson, Section and the prisoner. He copied all the files onto a minidisk for Jackson, He then quickly transferring the relevant files onto a PCMIA card to ensure that he had his own copy. The Intel would help with his own mission.

"Have you found the target?" Birkoff asked into the com set that was a direct link to Michael.

Michael replied calmly, "Yes, proceed to the egress point."

Birkoff moved quickly taking the same route as he had came, minutes later Michael appeared carrying an injured man over his shoulder. As Birkoff held open the door of the van he muffled a gasp when he realised the identity of the man.

It was Alex Krycek

Switching off both the com sets inked with Jackson, Birkoff drove the van away from the warehouse towards the airfield.

Michael brushed the hair from the injured man’s head "Lex? Come on, time to wake up."

Alex grinned, "I’m up Mike. Chill will you, can’t a man relax after a little torture anymore?"

"How were they?" Birkoff asked with a smirk.

"I’d give them a five out of ten. Their technique was so amateur," Alex said sitting up slightly.

Birkoff said, "What did they try? Mind techniques or the physical pain ones?"

"Physical, they beat the shit out of me, electrocuted me. You know, all the old stuff." Alex answered with a tired grin.

"God. they really were amateurs!" Michael said with a grin.

Alex smiled, "Yeah. Now down to business its time to put plan beta into practice."

"Okay. I trust Tom’s waiting for our signal?" Birkoff said automatically searching for any gaps in the plan.

Alex arched an eyebrow at them, "Of course. You know the Angels won’t let anything go wrong."

Birkoff smiled as he remembered what had happened seven years ago just two months before he had been recruited by Section.

*Flashback Birkoff’s pov*

My parents died in a car crash when I was fifteen. My dad’s friend, Jon now my guardian was an Angel Agent. He explained that my parents had once been Angels but had quit when my mother gave birth to me. Angels were a secret worldwide organisation designed to meet threats to the world no matter what form they took. As there was only one way he could look after me Jon had asked if I would like to join as a trainee Angel.

I had said yes and for the last two years I had been training to be an Angel. The training included martial arts, firearms, torture techniques, computers and languages.

Today I would find out just what my mission was. It would probably be a long term mission about 70% of all the agents were on long term missions which meant the mission lasted at least five years.

Captain Jones came to my room, "Seymour, you’ve got to go undercover in Section. Once there you’ll meet one of our agents. He’ll contact you."

"Okay. How are they going to recruit me?" I asked already accepting the mission, I had been ready for this day for the last two years.

The captain smiled, "You’re going to be imprisoned for hacking into the CIA files. Section will come and collect you as soon as they here about your computer abilities."

"Okay. Can I say goodbye to Alex first?" I said seriously.

Captain Jones said before leaving the room, "Of course. You’ve got two days until you have to leave for the prison."

Alex Krycek opened the door of my room with a smirk, "Sey? I heard that you’re going on a deep cover the same day as me. Can I hang with you until we have to leave?"

"Of course, Lex. You think we’ll see each other again?"

"Yeah. You’re not getting rid of me that easy, little bro." Alex said with a grin, but I noticed that his smile didn’t reach his eyes.

I had been in Section for just over a year and had kind of shocked everyone with my quick adjustment to the Section way of life. Section was a lot easier than the Angels, half of the operatives where so naïve it was ridiculous.

I had to hide the fact that I was one of the best operatives in the field, because of my mission. I was probably good enough to be classed as one of the five percenters in Section.

As for the torture techniques they were pathetic, there was no other way to describe them. I could have come up with better half asleep; the techniques were so out of date and time consuming.

"Birkoff, can I talk to you later?" Michael asked walking into my room.

I answered with a guarded smile, "I’ll meet you in ten minutes."

I quickly grabbed my gun from its hiding place and placed it in the hidden pocket of my jacket. If Michael had discovered my real mission I had no choice but to remove him, but I would make it as painless as possible. I owed him that, Michael was my friend perhaps the one real friend I had in Section.

"Want to go and get a coffee?" Michael asked as was standard when we left Section.

I answered with an easy smile, "Sure, where are we going this time?"

Michael waited until we were twenty minutes away from the Section base before saying, "My place. I’ve turned off the bugs, I need to talk to you about something."

I just nodded warily, were my fears coming true? Would I have to kill him? We walked in silence to his small apartment. It was tidy and logical, and strangely reminded me of the Angels.

"So how is Captain Jones? Still as annoying as always?" Michael asked absently as he passed me a cup of steaming black coffee.

I stared at him in shock, was he the operative I was supposed to meet or was there been a leak in the Angels? It was unlikely that there was a leak but not impossible. Thinking quickly I answered, "I don’t know what you’re talking about."

Michael grinned widely, "I’m the operative you’re supposed to meet. Your real name is Seymour Nicholas Birkoff and you have a twin brother called Jason who was kidnapped when you were three. You were recruited into the Angels when you were fifteen after your parents died in a car crash. You were sent undercover two days after you completed the standard two years training. Did I miss anything?"

I laughed, "You forgot to tell me my favourite colour!"

"Oh sorry, that would be black. Although, technically black isn’t a colour," Michael said giving me the correct answer with a roll of his eyes.

It wasn’t really a surprise that he knew the answer. He was probably given my folder from the Angels, which included everything about me from my psychological assessment to the name of my favourite toy as a child. It was safer that way, knowing something as ridiculous as your contact’s favourite colour could help you spot if the person was a plant.

I said slightly annoyed, "I know, that’s why my answer caused laughs all day at training. Why did you wait so long before you contacted me? I figured my contact had been killed!"

"I had to make sure you weren’t being watched. Do you know if Alex is safe? We joined the Angels at the same time and I would like to hear how he’s doing."

I gasped in realisation, "You’re THAT Mike? Lex, was always talking about how he missed you. You went undercover about four years ago, right?"

"Yeah, just after my seventeenth birthday. You were recruited a year after I left. I was fifteen when I was recruited."

I winked, "You’re don’t look twenty one. Now that I know who you are why don’t you tell me about your mission?"

"You don’t look eighteen, either." Michael smirked, "We have to take down Section from the inside. I’m to become the heir to Section and you’re to make sure the Angels get all the intelligence we need."

"Is that all (?) You know this is my first assignment and we’re going to be here for at least five years, probably longer."

Michael said gently, "This is my first mission as well. I hate this job sometimes but someone has to do it."

"So what is the real Michael like?" I asked making myself comfy.

Michael just grinned, "If you asked the other Angels they would say cold, ruthless and dangerous. I won’t deny I can be, and have been, all of those things but that isn’t all of me."

"I already knew that, Michael." I said with a sincere smile.

Michael took my hand in his, "I’m capable of caring, of loving but I only show that to people I feel comfortable with. Like you. I like you a lot Seymour. "

"I like you a lot too. I would like to know the real you," I said honestly.

"I would like to know you, too. We’ve got enough time to get to know each other."

We spent the rest of the night talking about the mission and about our fears, dreams and hopes. It was freeing to be myself again, not having to worry that I would let something slip. That night confirmed what I had suspected since the day we met when Michael had recruited me for Section. There was something between us, that I hesitantly called lust. It felt calming and safe to be with Michael as if I was finally home.

*End Flashback*

Opening the door of the van looking over Alex’s still form Jackson asked, "How is he?"

"As well as can be expected. He was electrocuted and beaten," Birkoff replied moving out of the way to let the medical staff in.

"Thank you for this," Jackson said seriously as Michael and Birkoff headed towards their room.

Dialling the control room with his cell phone Jackson said seriously, "Stop all surveillance on Michael and Birkoff. They’re on our side and they have repaid me in full."

"Want to go, cher? I feel like going for a walk," Michael said passing Birkoff a jacket.

Birkoff answered with a grin, "Sure. Let’s have a look at the grounds."

The pair walked out of the house in silence, holding hands a feeling that was still unusual to them. They were rarely affectionate in public during their seven years in Section. It was safer that way.

"I think Alex is going to be okay." Birkoff asked looking at Michael.

Michael answered, "He’ll be back to normal in a day at the most there doesn’t appear to be any hidden injuries so he’ll be fine. We were put through far worse in training."

Michael was referring to the hours, sometimes days when they were tortured as part of the standard training for Angels. All agents were put through the torture process both as a victim and as the torturer. Being tortured helped reduce the chances that agents would break if tortured upon capture and it helped them know just what techniques to use on a target.

Birkoff nodded, "I remember. It was horrible that first day, when Sara had the Enforcers beat me up each time I refused to answer her questions. That was nothing compared to when Alex had to torture me, that was the worst part of my training."

Michael said slowly, "It was just as hard, if not worse for him. I know how much it hurts to do that to someone you care about. I was the one picked for Alex’s training but through everything I did to him he just looked me in the eyes with an understanding grin."

"Why Alex isn’t watching Mulder?" Birkoff wondered aloud. Angels only abandoned their mission once success was achieved, sometimes that never happened and people were undercover for the rest of their lives.

Michael shrugged, "He mentioned having an extra mission when I spoke to him two years ago. It was probably Jackson, Captain Jones probably had this set up for years. You know the Captain only ever tells us what he wants us to know."

"Yeah. You think he’s using the same cover as with Mulder?"

Michael said thoughtfully, "It would fit. Alex Krycek, assassin falls in love with Paul Jackson when the man takes him in to hide from the Consortium."

"It’s a great plan Jackson’s got, rescue people from secret organisations who will work with him as repayment. Within a couple of years he has a dedicated and loyal army."

Michael took the younger man’s hand replying, "Probably why the Captain wants him taken down. There’s nothing more dangerous than a dedicated group of black operatives under the control of an arms and drugs dealer."

Michael said with a laugh changing the subject, "Sara is going to freak at us when we get back."

"She’ll lecture us on how dangerous it was to get involved with each other while undercover. Then she’ll ask what we would have done if someone had discovered our relationship before we put Plan Alpha into effect."

Michael said with a fond smile, "Yeah. Then ask us the details on how we got together and how we avoided being detected."

"You think we should tell her how we killed that one guy who was following me?" Birkoff asked imaging the look on her face with a wicked grin.

"She probably knows about it. Anyway we made it look like a perfectly normal hit and run. Section didn’t even bother looking into his death."

Jackson shouted at them his voice barely audible, "Michael, Birkoff? Come inside, Alex wants to say thank you to the people that rescued him."

Michael just smiled at Birkoff before the mask fell into place seamlessly, it was perfect if not for the light in his eyes whenever he looked at the younger man. That was one of the things that always amused Michael. Both Alex and Birkoff had warned him that his eyes showed too much emotion but Section hadn’t noticed anything. To think section prided itself on its abilities to read the emotions and minds of its operatives (!)

"Thanks," Alex said with a grin at the pair, he knew they would have to talk in private sometime as soon as he managed to convince Jackson that he was healthy.

Michael smiled, "There’s no need to thank us we’re just-"

"Happy that you’re okay," Birkoff finished with a small smile at Jackson’s shocked look over the fact that he and Michael could finish each other’s sentences.

Part 3

Nikita looked at the printout of Birkoff’s last letter to her in anger. It had been three weeks since she had discovered that Michael and Birkoff had been involved for four years, that Michael had never loved her like he had claimed to. She was sure that they must have been laughing at her for being so gullible as to believe Michael loved her.

Even as she thought that she hated herself for doubting their friendship. They probably kept it secret because they knew Operations would cancel them once the relationship was discovered. That was exactly what had happened, the pair where killed for being in love.

She froze remembering a conversation she overheard between the pair in spied them in a coffee house over two years ago. A conversation she had dismissed as unimportant.

*Flashback*

Spying Michael sitting alone Nikita started to move towards him only to see the mysterious man’s posture relax when a man approached. Deciding to use this to find out more about her love Nikita moved out of sight behind a large plant.

Michael looked up with a smile as Birkoff approached, "Bad day at the office, dear (?)

"Section’s so stupid sometimes!" Birkoff answered moodily stirring the coffee.

Michael laughed, "We’ve known that since we were recruited!"

Birkoff said with a smile, "True. For a secret organisation they are *so* obvious sometimes. No wonder missions fail so often, you’d think they would have realised that by now."

Michael nodded, "I know. I managed to spot that tail last week in about two minutes. I’m surprised they even bother trying to tail us seeing how we manage to avoid all of them."

Birkoff said a wide smirk, "I’m not surprised with *our* training. What’s wrong?"

Michael sighed, "I’m beginning to get tired of hiding my relationship all the time, Sey."

"Hide a relationship or end it," Birkoff said after a minute.

Michael grinned, "There’s only one choice. I’m not losing the love of my life."

"There’s not much chance of that happening. Ready to go?" Birkoff gave a wide smile.

Michael said, "Alex wants to know how many we’ve killed because they found out."

"Only three, the other five are *technically* still alive." Birkoff laughed as they waked out the shop.

"Yeah. Did I tell you how great that move you used on Smith was? You’re going to have to show me just how you did that."

"I’ve got a lot of moves to show you, Michael." Birkoff said with what sounded suspiciously like a leer.

Nikita walked out from behind the plant wondering why she hadn’t realised the pair were so close. It was as if they were best friends, which didn’t fit with what she knew about them. Suddenly she remembered the rumour that Michael had recruited Birkoff, she decided that was why. It made sense that you would become close to your recruiter.

*End Flashback*

Nikita frowned as her pager beeped, the pager that Michael had given her when she had escaped last time, the one to which only Michael had the number. She looked down at the messaged and frowned in confusion as she read the message.

‘I have important information about Michael and Birkoff. Meet me at 485 Fairfield Drive at 0100.’

As dangerous as it was, Nikita was going to go to the meet. She couldn’t ignore the chance to find out about her friends, she needed to understand who they really were. It felt like she had never known them.

The phone rang and Nikita picked it up waiting. Her body stiffened as she heard the word Josephine. They were calling her in, so much for trying to make the meet. She quickly got in her car and drove to the Section complex singing along to the radio.

Madeline started the briefing, "Nikita, you are going undercover as Charlotte Golding, the newest recruit of this man. He is highly paranoid and intensely protective of those close to him so you will have to be very careful."

Operations pressed a button and a map and picture of Paul Jackson appeared. He said seriously, "This is Paul Jackson. He recruits ex-members of terrorist, government and military organisations. Your cover is that you were once a member of Red Cell but you left when someone tried to kill you. We have someone inside Red Cell who will vouch for you. Your mission is to kill him and disband his group of fighters."

"Okay, when am I leaving?" Nikita asked expectantly.

"In thirty minutes. A man by the name of James will meet you at the corner of Orlando Drive at 14:00." Operations answered before walking away.

"Hey Alex. Everything okay?" Birkoff asked as he spied his friend walking over.

Alex nodded, "Yeah. Paul bought the whole thing. We’re set. Heard from the CO yet?"

Birkoff nodded, "Yeah. As we send the code he’ll extract us."

"Great. Sam said as soon as we completed our mission we are going to be trainers, no more missions."

"That sounds great, but they’ll just call us in if they need us." Michael said with a smirk.

"I know, but only if there’s no other choice. Once they see all the intel, they’ll change their minds about putting us on active duty."

Birkoff said with a smile, "Seeing how over half of what they need is locked in our minds, that makes sense. Tom wants me to take over the computer and communications sections."

"I’m supposed to take over the assassination and torture departments." Alex said with an eager grin. He loved a job were he could use his skills, he specialised in psychological torture and the use of drugs. He was one of the best assassins in the history of the Angels, only the mysterious Marie rated above him.

Michael sighed, "I get covert ops and fighting. It should be fun, once I actually manage to get the recruits to listen."

Smirking when he imagined the reactions his lover would provoke Birkoff said, "I’m sure your rep will help there, they’ll be terrified of you. Looks like the captain must have planned this a while ago."

Michael said seriously, "Well, the three who manage those departments are supposed to retire as soon as we get back."

"They’ve put an awful lot on the line, haven’t they?" Alex said shocked.

Thinking for a second Birkoff said logically, "They must have realised there was a high possibility of us returning."

"Even so it was a risk." Michael admitted with a smile, to think they had all spent the three years of training being told risks were only used as a last resort.

"Risks are sometimes unavoidable." Birkoff said wisely, remembering what he had experienced in the last five years.

"How we are going to get someone from Section here? We need to make it look like Section and Jackson are both trying to destroy each other. They’ll be too busy trying to kill each other no one will notice when we start to take them down."

"Its sorted." Michael grinned.

"Okay. I assume the explosives are set and we’re going to take care of the operatives?" Alex said carefully thinking everything over.

Ignoring his smirking lover Birkoff said, "Don’t worry, Alex. I’ll personally destroy both Jackson’s system and the Section system. Marie is going to talk to all operatives. If they accept the false identity and memories we give them, they can leave. We’ll alter them just enough so that no one ever identifies them for who they really are. If they can’t take the new memories then we’ll see. If we can use them in the Angels we will."

"Some would be great in the Angels. Others wouldn’t, like Madeline." Michael said seriously.

Alex thought for a moment, "I need to talk to my contact. I think I might be able to get someone else to help create a war between Section and Jackson."

"Are you sure he hasn’t been compromised?" Michael asked carefully not wanting to upset the younger man.

Alex grinned, "If he had I would know, believe me. I trust him with your lives."

Knowing how much Alex valued their friendship and bond Birkoff said taking his best friend’s hand, "We can go to our room."

The three walked inside in silence not needing to talk, comfortable enough with each other. Each one knew the process of creating a war between Jackson and Section had to be highly organised. They couldn’t afford any mistakes, mistakes would cost their lives.

Alex quickly routed the connection through a collection of computers before hacking into the satellite. Working quickly the man typed his message and patiently waited for the reply. He didn’t have to worry about detection as within an hour of arriving Birkoff broke into Jackson’s system allowing him to could control what was seen and heard.

Moving away from the computer Alex said, "He’s going to get the DEA, NSA and FBI interested in Jackson. They’ll begin investigating him soon. Oh, he will make it appear Section told them to look into Jackson."

Birkoff pulled Alex off the floor, "Feel like watching me kick Michael’s butt again?"

"You mean when I let you win?" Michael said with a smirk.

Alex said with a laugh, "Mike, you’ve got to admit Sey is better at you at unarmed. He’s sneaky, cunning and doesn’t stick to any rules. Of course it doesn’t help that he’s had training from everyone at Angels, as well as us two. He even managed to beat Tom in most of the lessons."

Michael said mock-angrily "How did you manage all that, love?"

Birkoff grinned, "I’m good at observing. I use techniques from different eras and countries. I adapt them to suit my purpose."

"Alex and I against you. If you win then you can be the one to tell Marie about our relationship." Michael said to his lover knowing the man would enjoy the chance of shocking the life out of the tough, unshakeable analyst.

"You’re on. Unarmed or what?" Birkoff said as they walked outside into the large field they were going to use for practice.

Alex said with a grin, "We’ll be armed and you can be unarmed. That way I can see just how good you’ve become."

"Hi, Charlotte." James said with a grin as he walked over to Nikita who was standing on the assigned corner waiting expectantly.

Nikita turned to look at the man, he didn’t look anything like she had expected. The man smiled at her and she noticed the smile didn’t reach his eyes. Realising she was silent too long she said with a smile, "Hi. Nice to meet you, James."

James took her bag and started walking saying, "Come on. Did you have any problems getting away?"

"No." Nikita said walking beside him.

James said seriously, "Okay. I’m sure you’ll get on well everyone. Oh, please be aware that we don’t tolerate any violence against anyone else in the group."

"Thanks." Nikita said as he held open the car door for her.

The car sped away heading towards Jackson’s complex watched by the careful eyes of Section. In another building Tom Jones was worriedly looking at the report, he knew that Nikita was an unknown in the mission, maybe her friendship with Michael and Birkoff would be strong enough to convince her to help. If not the others would just have to manipulate her into helping.

Part 4

"Did I just see who I thought I did?" Birkoff asked his lover with a groan as they looked out the window.

Michael nodded, "Nikita’s here. Section must have started their plan to take Paul down. Think she’ll be a problem?"

Birkoff thought for a moment, "I don’t know. She could either hate us or help us. What are we going to tell her about our being here?"

Michael shrugged, "We can make it up as we go along. Nikita might just let us leave. It depends on whether she believes the willing to do anything to be together ruse."

Alex smiled, "Follow my lead. I’ll pretend to be someone you used to know Mike, so she won’t wonder why we’re together a lot. Paul believes I’m trying to find your weak points so I can use you."

Michael took his lover’s hand as he gestured to the door, "Let’s go then. Paul will expect us to be a little distant with her if she’s posing as an escaped terrorist."

The three walked down the stairs and observed her sizing up Paul as if waiting for the man to make a critical mistake. Nikita turned to look at them, her training the only thing stopping her from reacting when she saw her apparently two dead friends approaching.

James smiled at them saying, "Its great to see you’re feeling better, Alex. Guys this is Charlotte Golding, the latest member of our little family."

Alex decided to take the lead giving the woman a chance to cool down he said, "Its nice to meet you, Charlotte. My name is Alex Krycek. Call me Krycek. Where are you from?" "Why do you want to know?" Nikita said narrowing her eyes at the man suspiciously as she remembered to keep up her cover. "Just making conversation, Sweetheart." Alex said rolling his eyes.

"Hi Charlotte, my name is Michael. The man next to me is Birkoff. Why are you on the run?"

"Someone tried to kill me and I didn’t take it well." Nikita said seriously.

"Know the feeling. We’re going to practice outside, Paul." Birkoff said with a grin to the man who was coolly observing everything.

Paul nodded, "Okay. Join Alex and I for dinner tonight? I would like to get to know the pair who saved the most important person in my life."

"Sure." Michael said with a grin leading his lover out of the house ignoring the stunned Nikita.

"You didn’t tell me there were people from Section here!" Nikita said accusingly to James.

Before the man could answer Paul said calmly, "I know we can trust them. You however I do not trust you, so do not test my patience. If you hurt anyone here, we will turn you into Red Cell."

Knowing the tension needed to be defused Alex interceded, "Love, where are we going for dinner tonight?"

"I was thinking La Senza." Paul answered with a wide smile.

"Okay. I’ll show you around, Charlotte." Alex said seeing the chance to find out what the woman’s state of mind was.

As the man led her up the stairs Nikita commented, "Thank you. How long have you been here?"

"A three weeks this time. I was captured by Red Cell. How do you like life on the run?"

"Its different. What are Birkoff and Michael like?" Nikita said unable to curb her curiosity, wanting to know how much she had missed about her so-called friends.

Alex said slowly, "They’re good together and keep to themselves. Why do you want to know?"

"In Red Cell you hear a lot about Michael." Nikita said with a flirtatious grin.

Alex mentally shook his head at her terrible answer. If this was an example of the best of Section then the organisation had really gone downhill. With a quick grin he said, "If so, why are you bothered about Birkoff? He’s not very well known."

Nikita said with a seductive grin, "Its just…he seems close to Michael."

"He is. This is your room. I’m going outside, would you like to come with me?"

Nikita smiled, "That would be nice. Should I leave my bag here?"

"Yeah." Alex answered watching as she placed a case on the bed. He noticed she touched something just a couple of millimetres from the top left corner. He briefly wondered if it was a transmitter, if so he would to warn the others to be careful.

Nikita stood and smiled at the man by her side. This Alex was confusing, he seemed very protective of Michael and Birkoff, she wondered if it was because they had rescued him. How could she get rid of the man so she could speak to her friends alone? She had to warn the lovers about Section, if they had gone so far to stay together then she would do her best to help them.

When they got outside Nikita watched in shock as Birkoff and Michael fought, their bodies glistening with sweat as they ducked and dived. As she moved closer, Nikita saw they were using small knives to fight. She was about to say something when Birkoff grinned at his lover and moved forward directing a sweeping kick to Michael’s knees. Michael didn’t react as he grabbed the foot and spun Birkoff up. Birkoff kicked the older man on the way down shifting slightly so he landed in a crouch.

Before his lover could catch his breath, Michael started moving forward pressing a small button to turn his knife into a sword. Birkoff countered the moves with a smirk before switching his sword to a knife and starting his own offensive using kicks, thrusts and lunges. When he had forced Michael back, Birkoff nodded at his lover, as one they pressed a button on their swords, which returned to knives.

As one the pair started their Kata moving gracefully, they countered each other’s kicks and punches. To their audience it looked like the pair were dancing, each move was perfectly timed.

As they slowed Alex moved forward and bowing to the pair said, "Good show, guys. I’m just showing Charlotte around. Feel like showing her the grounds with me?"

Birkoff grinned at his lover who was sitting on the ground watching them. With an exaggerated groan he said, "Come on cher. Quit slouching around."

"Babe, I don’t slouch, I reflect." Michael protested as he stood up, nodding at Nikita.

The four started walking in silence. Once he was sure they were out of the range of the surveillance equipment Michael said, "Nikita, how is everyone?"

Looking at Alex worriedly Nikita said, "Why are we talking about this in front of him?"

Michael smiled, "Alex is an old friend of mine. He’s not going to say anything."

"True, I’d never do that to Mikey." Alex said with a grin.

Nikita accepted the information and answered Michael’s question, "As well as can be expected seeing how everyone thought you had both died."

"Sorry but it had to be done." Michael said impassively.

"How come you’re so good at fighting, Birkoff?"

Birkoff grinned, "You pick up a few moves when your lover is Michael."

Nikita snarled, "Really (!) Why didn’t you tell me you were seeing each other?"

Michael could see she was upset and said honestly, "We had to make sure no one found out. The only way we could do that was to tell no one."

Birkoff interjected, "If people knew we were seeing each other it would have been to dangerous. I take it everyone saw the letters we left for each other."

Nikita nodded. "Yes. No one had any idea you were involved. Let alone for four years."

Birkoff shrugged, "Well it was actually four years, three months and ten days."

"How could you be involved for so long? I thought you were married, Michael?"

Shrugging the brunette former Section agent answered, "I was but it wasn’t about love. It was about duty. I felt something for Birkoff the moment I set eyes on him. It was about six years ago now. I was his recruiter. After spending time with him I realised I wanted to get to know him, that I wanted to be the one he came to with any problems."

Birkoff continued the story, "So we started talking to each other outside section. When I got my apartment inside HQ Michael would talk to me there or I would go to his place. Sometimes we just sat around watching cheesy action films, sometimes we would just spar and sometimes we talked."

"How come no one found out about you?" Nikita asked looking the couple in the eyes.

Michael shrugged, "We’re very careful. We weren’t going to get each other killed because we were stupid or figured we were invincible."

Nikita said earnestly, "You must leave before Section get too involved. They’re taking this man down and if you’re here, they’ll kill you."

"I’m afraid we can’t do that. If we just leave then Paul will come after us."

"Yeah. You have to leave before Section turns up though." Nikita said seriously, not wanting her friends to be caught and killed.

Birkoff said reassuringly, "We will after we’ve set up somewhere."

"I guess that’s the only thing you can do." Nikita said seriously trying her hardest not to let her anger and jealously control her actions.

Michael said with a grin, "I’m glad you understand. We’ll talk to you whenever we can but the surveillance here is very good."

"Okay. Lets go in now, I’m sure Paul wants to speak with you." Alex said seriously, seconds later the four walked inside in silence.

"What do you think of Charlotte?" Paul asked his lover seriously, there was something about the woman that made him feel uneasy.

Alex said thoughtfully, "She’s very suspicious and aggressive, typical of Red Cell. She wants to know all about us. I think we should get Michael and Birkoff to keep an eye on her, they have plenty of experience with watching people. We can trust them to tell us if she’s up to anything."

"I’ll ask them about it at dinner tonight. I’ve missed you so much, babe. If I had known you were alive earlier I would have come for you, I swear."

"I know and I don’t feel any anger towards you. I know you love me and would do anything for me. While Red Cell held me I overheard some of the people talking, they said that Section told them were I was so they could captured me. It was supposed to stop you from doing anything against them."

"I swear section will pay in blood for what they have done to you. No one hurts someone I love and gets away with it! I’m going to tear them to pieces, then I’ll torture Operations and Madeline for months before killing them as a present for you."

"Thank you." Alex replied knowing it would make their mission a lot easier if Paul really was at war with Section.

End Part 4