©2005 Closure
 By: Cheryl Pillsbury
Beta Reader: David J. Duncan

Up in the Highlands of Scotland the fields were covered in pine
green grass, the trees were filled with leaves standing tall, the sun
slowly setting in the horizon and a cool breeze rustling through the
leaves; leaving a chill in the air and the stars glistened high above
the hills, reflecting from the moonlight; a full moon; a few crickets
chirping in the distance and the sound of the water flowing downward
behind the cabins; looking like a sheet of glass.
        Molly and Jamie began cleaning up after their last dinner
together on their honeymoon, but Nick and LaCroix decided to take one
last stroll alone outside; discussing the new world that awaits them;
especially for LaCroix.  They strolled past the cabins, standing by a
huge oak tree along the edge of the river and glanced at the stars
off in the distance.
        LaCroix stood like a statue allowing the cool breeze to
touch him, move him, inhaling the freshness of the air into his old
lungs, feeling his lungs move with each breath he took.  He felt his
heart beating strong within his chest, goose bumps rising from his
warm skin and the steam from his mouth exhaling.
        Nick stood, watching him as he remembered his first day;
doing the same years ago.  He smiled, laughed slightly watching him,
but LaCroix caught a glimpse of his son smiling with tear-filled
eyes; tears of joy.
        LaCroix warmly approached him, standing by his right side;
smiling, "Nicholas, what amuses you?"
        Nick exhaled grinning, "Watching you; I see myself; years
ago." 
        "I see, and?" LaCroix inquired.
        "I'm glad you came back and we're able to stay together;
that's all." Nick said.
        "I agree, Nicholas, I'm…" LaCroix started to say.
        "Scared; you were married as a vampire, but honeymooned as a
human; now you're returning home as a human and to live as one;
very," Nick told him.
        "Yeah," LaCroix whispered.
        "We're all here to help you." Nick said smiling.
        "I'm glad," LaCroix replied warmly.
        As Nick and LaCroix lovingly embraced each other, a pale
white light hovered around them; like a blanket and a soft voice
echoed from behind them.  There, standing before them were the three
people they loved most and cared for in life; Schanke to the left;
Fleur on the right and Natalie in the center.  They smiled warmly,
but Nick and LaCroix stood terrified.
        "Natalie," Nick whispered.
        "Nick, I'm pleased you found happiness and peace," Nat said.
        "But…" Nick replied.
        "A new life; the one you longed for; we have no regrets; no
forgiveness needed." Nat said.
        "I love you," Nick told her.
        "I love you too Nick; I always have and always will.  I will
always be close by." Nat said as she faded away.
        Fleur approached them with tears rolling down her youth
cheek, "Lucien, you have found your way back, as I knew you would; my
love."
        "Yes, but I still feel love for you," LaCroix said.
        "As I do for you, my love; my brother; your soul is at
peace," Fleur replied.
        "Yes, I love you," Nick whispered.
        "As do I; no regrets dear Nicholas," Fleur said.  "Lucien,
love and grow; be happy."
        "I will; safe journey." LaCroix replied.
        "Hey Nick; I knew at the end," Schanke said.
        "I got your letter; Molly and I…" Nick replied.
        "I know Buddy; welcome back; Lucien, I never knew about you,
but seeing what you two shared; I'm glad you chose to return."
Schanke said.
        LaCroix gasped, "You were my guide."
        "You betta," Schanke answered.
        "Schanke," Nick said sadly.
        "Miss you too, Nick, always catch the bad guys for me Nick;
my very best to you both and the lovely ladies." Schanke replied.
        "Love you partner." Nick mumbled.
        "I know; same here, ciao," Schanke said.
        Schanke slowly faded away as Nick and LaCroix looked around
them then towards each other and exhaled terrified.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix whispered.
        "I'm not sure," Nick said.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Another wedding miracle to our endless
question,"
        "Possibly; let's head back," Nick suggested.
        "I need a beer, and…" LaCroix said.
        "Me too, come on," Nick replied.
        Nick led the way with LaCroix at his side heading back to
Nick's cabin, opening the door and walked in.  As they closed the
door, the warm fresh aroma of coffee filled their senses, exhaling
and removed their jackets and boots.  They strolled into the living
room seeing the coffee sitting on a tray with four mugs; a roaring
fire in the fireplace and the ladies lounging on the couch waiting
for them.  They slowly sat down at their wives side; Molly poured the
coffee and passed a mug to each person.  They took a sip inhaling the
warmth and comfort then exhaled.
        "How was your manly stroll?" Molly asked.
        Nick looked towards to LaCroix, "It was warm and content."
        "I'm glad.  We need to rest; we fly out at eight in the
morning." Molly said.
        "With that said; we'll head back to rest, see you in the
morning about six." LaCroix suggested.
        "Okay, have a ton of fun." Nick said smiling.
        "We will, you too," LaCroix said.
        "You betta," Nick said laughing.
        LaCroix stood up extending his hand to Jamie and they
quietly left their cabin.  Molly stood up walking towards the
fireplace kneeling down and faced Nick with a seductive smile.  Nick
sensed her intensions standing up, walking towards her and knelt down
in front of her.
        "Well, Mrs. Knight, what is it you desire?" Nick asked.
        "Mr. Knight, it's our last night here in Scotland then we
return to reality," Molly said.
        "And," Nick said breathing slightly erratic.
        "Just us, a warm fire; I want to make love here, by the
fire." Molly replied.
        "My pleasure," Nick said moving closer.
        They kissed each other passionately; breathing erratically
and slowly removed their clothes.  Molly moved as close as she could
to him feeling his arousal pressing up against her leg.  She slowly
reached down firmly stroking him, and Nick kissing and massaging her
breasts with his tongue.  She slowly leaned back, slipping a condom
on as he slowly lay on top of her; embracing and massaging.  She
slowly wrapped her legs around his lower body allowing him to deeply
penetrate her.  Molly gasped slightly from his intense heat and
hardness.  He slowly moved in then out; moaning with each stroke; her
breathing became heavy and hard.  He felt his essence surging to the
end; she felt her body getting hotter and held onto him as tight as
she could, digging her fingers into his back.  He grabbed hold of her
back moving faster; going deeper and whispered, 'ah---Molly, I---.' 
Nick felt the warmth of his essence emerging, pausing a moment and
moved once more then laid his head upon her breasts.  She moaned;
shaking and whispered his name at the height of their climax.  She
felt his sweaty body shake and his heart pounding upon her chest. 
She massaged his upper back, stroking his hair. 
        Still inside, he leaned up to gaze upon his wife's eyes and
glowing smile, "You okay," Nick asked winded.
        Molly winded, trying to speak, "Fantastic,"
        "Good, same here," Nick replied.  "I love you,"
        "Love you too," Molly whispered.  "More,"
        "Always," Nick said happily.
        They lay by the fireplace making love and maybe caught some
sleep.  However, at the other cabin; LaCroix and Jamie were lying in
bed; in each others arms and smiled.  Jamie noticed LaCroix was
preoccupied, and sat up to face him sitting upon her feet.
        "Lucien, what is it?" Jamie asked.
        "Nicholas and I were visited by Schanke, Natalie and Fleur,"
LaCroix told her.
        "And," Jamie inquired.
        "They wished us happiness and love, but…" LaCroix paused.
        "But…" Jamie inquired.
        "They knew we were vampires, but to see Fleur again brought
back painful memories," LaCroix briefed her.
        "I understand how much you loved her; you always will,"
Jamie replied.
        "I know; it just felt…" LaCroix said.
        "Sad," Jamie replied.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Yes and calming; like a door closing;
content to move on."
        "Good; Mr. LaCroix; it's our last night here; what can I do
ease the sadness?" Jamie inquired.
        "Mrs. LaCroix; love me," LaCroix answered.
        "Forever," Jamie answered.
        "As do I," LaCroix said.
        Jamie slowly pulled her nighty up and over her head, tossing
it to the floor and pulled the sheet off of LaCroix's body.  She sat
slowly exploring every inch of his body, slowly placed her hand upon
his thigh and gazed into his loving eyes.  LaCroix took hold of her
hand carefully placing it upon his hardness, and she firmly stroked
him.  They slowly kissed each other, Jamie lying back as LaCroix
rolled in between her legs, and reached for the condom on his pillow.
He quickly slipped it on slowly penetrating her and Jamie let out a
soft moan from his warm motion.
        LaCroix went as deep as he could.  Jamie breathing heavy
stroking his body as he moved deeper and faster; he felt his heat
intensifying, kissing her nipples slightly sucking them.  She felt
her body rising; his arousal banging her deep inside.  LaCroix felt
his essence surging closer; the faster he went; his breathing became
heavier.  His essence suddenly exploded deep inside, both moaning,
saying each other's name.  Jamie slowly sat up on his lap with him
still inside, kissing each other passionately; their bodies sweaty
and shaking from their intense climax.
        "You okay," Jamie inquired.
        "Yes," LaCroix replied winded.  "That was…"
        Jamie exhaling hard, "Oh yeah,"
        "I love you so much," LaCroix said warmly.
        Jamie smiled, "As do I, now, it's my turn,"
        "Uh-oh," LaCroix said grinning.
        "Are you ready my love," Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "Always darling, always,"
        They slowly lay upon the bed making love, sleeping in
between and hopefully rested enough for their early flight.
        The remaining hours slowly passed into early morning; sun
rising high, not a cloud in the sky, but a sudden chill in the air. 
The sunlight spilled into Nick and Molly's bedroom, waking Molly up
first and she opened her eyes stretching then saw Nick sleeping
peacefully.  She rolled over lying along side of him and stroked his
chest.  Nick jumped slightly smiling, stroking her back, but she
noticed the clock and the time.  Molly tapped his stomach waking him
up, looking upward into his blue eyes and grinned.
        "Morning," Molly said.
        Nick yawned, "Morning, that's it,"
        "Well, it's late; we have two hours to shower, eat, pack and
make our flight." Molly replied.
        "Damn," Nick said.
        "Poor baby, tell you what, take turns in the bathroom, a
quickie in the shower and get moving." Molly suggested.
        "You're on." Nick replied.
        As they prepared to get ready; in the other cabin, LaCroix
was standing in front of the window absorbing the sun and grinned
warmly.  Jamie sat up seeing him, and exhaled.  He placed his hands
upon the window; palms touching the glass and felt the heat rising,
touching his skin.
        "Lucien, are you all right," Jamie inquired.
        "I've never been this close before; it's increditable; I
have forgotten its beauty; it's glow," LaCroix explained.
        "It looks wonderful on you." Jamie told him.
        LaCroix looked away from the window, gazing upon Jamie
sitting on the bed, and smiled.  He strolled towards her, sitting
next to her, stroking her soft cheek and hair, smiling.
        "You are more beautiful than any sunrise," LaCroix told her.
        Jamie lovingly blushed, "I love you,"
        "I love you," LaCroix said gently kissing her.
        "We need to shower, eat and pack," Jamie said.
        "All right, let's go.  Nicholas and Molly have asked us to
stay with them until our new home is found and ready." LaCroix
briefed her.
        "All right, lead on," Jamie said.
        They began to shower, clean and refreshed for their trip;
ate a warm breakfast and quickly packed their things.  They slowly
exited their cabin, meeting outside and stood on the path gazing at
the heavenly view of the Highlands of Scotland; one last time.  A
stretched black limo slowly drove up along side and parked.  The
driver exited the car walking to the rear and opened the trunk.  The
gentleman placed all the suitcases into the trunk, closing it and the
driver opened their door as they slowly climbed in and closed it. 
The driver walked around climbing in and quickly drove them to the
airport for their journey back home; back to Toronto.
        ****
        In Toronto, their friends had just finished decorating the
loft for their welcome home, but as Allen walked by the couch; the
phone rang and he picked it up hoping it was Nick.
        "Hello," Allen said.
        "Hey Allen, its Reese, are they back yet?" Reese asked.
        "Not yet, any minute though; why?" Allen asked.
        "Jack and Tony were sent out to the lake; Larry's body was
found." Reese briefed him.
        "Great," Allen sighed.
        "Tomorrow; with Nick, go to Forensics and Kathy will fill
you guys in, not today okay," Reese instructed.
        "Okay; I'll tell Paul, thanks Cap." Allen said hanging up.
        Paul noticed that look in Allen's eyes, "Hey Bud, what is it?"
        Allen looked around to be sure they were alone, "That was
Reese; they found Larry's body."
        "Ah man," Paul replied.
        "Jody's on the case today; tomorrow when Nick joins in and
Kathy's had a chance to examine; we're to go the lab."  Allen
explained.
        "Great, it never ends does it?" Paul replied frustrated.
        "I'm afraid not; let's finish up and enjoy today before we
deal with reality." Allen suggested.
        "Done, where's the champagne bucket?" Paul inquired.
        "Come on," Allen said trying to smile.
        They ran around finishing up the last minute decorations
when they heard the elevator approaching.  They quickly stood in a
line; in front of the couch and eagerly waited for them.  Suddenly,
the door slid open with them entering the loft and everyone yelled,
'surprise, and welcome home.'  They embraced and kissed each other
with love and happiness.  Paul and Carla poured the pink champagne
with a strawberry resting on the bottom and they drank a warm toast
to the two married couples; wishing them the very best.
        "Welcome home, how was the trip?" Allen asked.
        "Heaven," Nick answered.
        "Fantastic," LaCroix added.
        Paul grinned, moving closer, "And the honeymoon,"
        Nick smiled wide, "No,"
        "That good," Paul said grinning.
        "Bye," Nick replied.
        Paul shook his head, "Whoa, let's eat."
        They spent about an hour or so eating, laughing and sharing
memories of Scotland.  Each couple slowly left as the sun sat in the
horizon.  LaCroix held Jamie as Nick held Molly, standing by the
stairs, exhaling loudly and smiled.
        "We're beat," LaCroix said.
        "Us too, and reality tomorrow; sorry to say," Nick replied.
        "Lead the way," LaCroix said.
        They slowly climbed the stairs walking down the hall and
entered their own bedrooms, closing the door.  They prepared for bed,
resting after a long flight home and sharing with their friends.
        The night hours quickly passed into mid-morning with the sun
beaming through the blinds in Nick and Molly's room and rolled up the
blanket, shining into Molly's eyes.  She slowly woke up seeing Nick's
peaceful face and slight grin.  She slowly leaned over kissing his
chest and moved her hand downward to his string on his lounge pants. 
He jumped slightly opening his eyes and saw the devilish grin.  His
eyes sparkled and surrendered to her suggestion; without hesitation. 
Molly slowly pulled the string placing her hand inside and stroked
him firmly.  Nick slowly wrapped his arms around her and they made
love.
        In LaCroix and Jamie's room; Jamie woke up glancing and
slightly hot.  She quickly sat up tapping his chest and repeating his
name.  LaCroix suddenly opened his eyes screaming, 'no,' and saw
Jamie at his side.  He pulled Jamie close to him, squeezing her tight
and his breathing was erratic.
        "It's all right; I'm here," Jamie said.  "What's wrong?"
        "A dream," LaCroix whispered.
        "Come on, sit up," Jamie requested.  "Now, tell me,"
        "I saw images of my long past," LaCroix told her.
        Jamie exhaled, "Yours didn't fade like Nicholas,"
        "No, there more intense," LaCroix said.
        "Maybe because you and Scott are now the safe haven for the
vampires existing here," Jamie suggested.
        "But, God wouldn't…" LaCroix started to say.
        "Maybe, you are to keep them from the humans," Jamie replied.
        "Maybe, but why me," LaCroix questioned.
        "I'm not sure; you were there a few years after he died."
Jamie replied.  "Talk to Nicholas about it; he might be able help."
        "I will later; he needs to work today." LaCroix said.
        "All right," Jamie replied.  "You okay now,"
        "Almost," LaCroix answered.
        Jamie laughed slightly, "What else do you desire?"
        LaCroix smiled, "You,"
        "Really," Jamie said grinning.
        LaCroix inhaled, "I want a good, warm reason to sweat and
shake; not from fear,"
        "Well, in that case," Jamie started, pulling her nighty off,
"hold on for the ride of your life."
        "Uh-oh," LaCroix whispered.
        "Oh yeah," Jamie said.
        Jamie reached under the sheet stroking him slightly hard,
and they lay upon the bed as she climbed upon him as he penetrated
her.  LaCroix moaned from her tight grip on him and they made love.
        Nick and Molly made their way downstairs, prepared a warm
breakfast and sat down at the table drinking their coffee, waiting
for the others to join them.  LaCroix and Jamie strolled through the
kitchen, and sat down at the table.  Jamie poured the coffee for
herself and LaCroix, exhaling from the warm aroma.  Nick noticed
LaCroix a little distant; hesitant and looked at Jamie for a moment.
        "Lucien, you all right," Nick inquired.
        "Yeah, bad dream," LaCroix answered.  "What's the agenda
today?"
        "Well, we ladies are shopping, because we have no food
here." Molly replied.
        "We also need more condoms." Nick said softly.
        "Jamie, we do also," LaCroix replied.
        "Okay, love you." Jamie said.  "Later darling,"
        "Love you too," LaCroix said following the ladies into the
living room.
        Nick slowly joined them closing the door behind them; he
moved towards LaCroix, "Okay, what is it?"
        "I saw images of my long past; horrid past," LaCroix said.
        "Those will soon fade or choose not to see them." Nick
replied.
        "I'm human now, and I'm the safe-haven for both worlds; how
can I do that without…" LaCroix hesitated.
        "God's wrath; maybe the safe-haven is to protect both
worlds," Nick explained.
        "I suppose," LaCroix replied, still disturbed.  "Where you
off to,"
        "Doctors for you then work," Nick sighed.
        "What?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Come on, and now, it will be two cups for you." Nick said
grinning.
        "Must we," LaCroix replied.
        Nick laughed, "Yes, and I'll drop you off at the Raven with
Scott."
        "Great," LaCroix sighed.
        Nick took LaCroix by his right forearm, dragging him along
riding down in the elevator and outside to the caddy.  They climbed
in, Nick started the engine and quickly drove to St. Claire's
Hospital; lower levels.  Nick parked near the door turning the engine
off; they climbed out and entered the hospital.  There stood Doc
waiting for them, staring at LaCroix; after hearing what took place
and greeted them with a warm smile.
        "Hello Nicholas; Lucien LaCroix; I'm honored.  How do you
feel?" Doctor Mason asked.
        "I'm still in shock; I think; a little anyway.  It feels
wonderful." LaCroix answered.
        "Come on; let's go into my office for privacy." Doc suggested.
        Doctor Mason led them into his office closing the door
behind them and leaned upon his desk, "Well, how was the honeymoon as
a human?"
        "Wonderful," LaCroix answered.
        "Nicholas, you get one," Doc said.
        "Good, I need to go," Nick said quickly walking away.
        "All right Lucien, tell me," Doc inquired.
        "Nicholas and myself; with Scott were alone after the
ceremony and we were talking when Sarah returned."
        "Wonderful, what did you do, you were outside," Doc
questioned.
        LaCroix chuckled, "Aimed at a tree,"
        Doc laughed, "Good, what about your sexual experience as a
human,"
        "Better; I now feel and sense the whole encounter; before,
during and after." LaCroix answered.
        "Jamie," Doc inquired.
        "She came to me; we held each other and the light traveled
from me into her; she's fully human as well." LaCroix told him.
        "I'm so thrilled." Doc said.
        "I'm back," Nick said.
        "Me too," LaCroix replied.
        "Okay Lucien; this time two cups for you; no rush." Doc
instructed him.
        "Dandy," LaCroix whispered.
        "I'll wait, don't worry," Nick said watching LaCroix enter
the bathroom closing the door.
        "Nicholas, tell me," Doc replied.  "He told me what took
place."
        "Like me; a few accidents at first, but I think he's got it.
He's still having nightmares; images of his long past." Nick
answered.  "I think he's truly scared now that we're back home."
        "To live as a human," Doc said.
        "Yeah, and die as one." Nick added.
        "We can understand that," Doc said.
        Nick exhaled, "Yes we can,"
        "I'm back and that was rough," LaCroix told them.
        Doc laughed, "I'm sure, Lucien, listen to me very carefully,"
        "All right," LaCroix said.
        "Like Nicholas; your son; your new fight begins to stay
human.  With all your family and friends; you will succeed but fear
is okay as well; it's part of being human.  Enjoy the life you've
been given." Doc ordered.
        "I will, thank you," LaCroix replied relaxing.
        "Thanks Doc, come on," Nick said.
        Nick led LaCroix out of Doc's office, walking down the
narrow corridor, and outside.  LaCroix took hold of Nick's arm,
"Nicholas, may I drive the caddy back to the Raven?"
        Nick laughed, "Why?"
        LaCroix cleared his throat, "In all the years we've been
together; I have never…"
        "It's gold; here are the keys," Nick said smiling.
        They climbed into the caddy; LaCroix started the engine and
carefully drove out of the garage, heading for the Raven.  He pulled
up out front turning the engine off, gave the keys to Nick and they
exited the car entering the club.
        The Raven had a few changes to it; stools were added to the
new tables attached to the poles; a jukebox stood in the far corner
and glasses hung from the ceiling.  They slowly walked down the
stairs, standing by the bar and looked all around them.  Suddenly,
Scott entered from the backroom seeing them, and walked towards the
bar smiling, hugging them.
        "Welcome home, how was the trip?" Scott asked.
        "Wonderful," LaCroix said.
        Scott looked towards Nick, "Everything will be ready
tomorrow night for Lucien and Jamie."
        "Good," Nick whispered.
        "What will be ready?" LaCroix asked.
        Nick smiled, "You'll see; I have to check in,"
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said strongly.
        Nick laughed, "Bye Lucien, bye Scott."
        Nick quickly left them alone walking up the stairs and
outside to his car.  He climbed in, starting the engine and carefully
drove away, heading for the station.  He noticed an empty space along
the left side of the building and parked, turning the engine off.  He
climbed out; walking up the stairs inside of the building, and his
entire fellow officer's applauded Nick's return.  Nick took a slight
bow, grinned, waving at them and saw Paul and Allen standing at his
desk.
        "Cute, guys," Nick said.
        "Welcome back," Allen replied.
        Paul clapped his hands together, "Okay, sad news, Larry's
body was found yesterday.  His body washed up by the lake; a bullet
in the head."
        "Great," Nick sighed.
        "Sorry Bud," Allen replied.
        Reese saw them talking from his office; he strolled out and
approached them after hanging up his phone, looking disgusted.  They
saw him and that look then grew very silent.
        "Hey Cap," Paul said.
        "Welcome back, Nick," Reese said.
        "Thanks, what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        Reese exhaled, "Allen, you're with us on this one; a body
was found; an FBI agent; here's the address, get moving."
        "What?  Who?" Allen asked stunned.
        "Come on, ride with us, maybe you can tell us." Paul said.
        They quickly ran out of the station, down the stairs and
over to the car.  They climbed in; Nick started the engine and drove
to the alley instructed by Reese.  He drove along the curb parking,
turning the engine off and they climbed out.  There were cruisers,
lights flashing all around them, yellow tape and Kathy standing at
the edge of the alley, writing notes down on her clipboard.  They
cautiously approached her and stood along side.
        "Hello gentlemen," Kathy said.
        "Well, we have a male in the alley; dead.  No wounds; a few
bruises and has blue nails and a yellow tint to his skin." Kathy said.
        "That's it," Paul said surprised.
        "Here are some gloves; becareful." Kathy replied.
        "We will, later, Luv," Allen said.
        Nick grabbed Allen's arm, "First; you observe,"
        "But…" Allen said.
        "If you know him, and it involves you in any way; it could
jeopardize this case." Nick told him.
        Allen sighed frustrated, "Fine,"
        "Come on, take notes for us, okay," Nick requested.  "Paul,
go left; I'll go right."
        They slowly walked down the alley seeing the body lying on
its back, but no blood or any signs of a struggle.  They knelt down
along side of the body; they lightly padded the body, and Paul felt a
wallet, carefully reaching in then pulled it out.
        "Okay, one wallet; Arthur Gango; FBI-Special Unit Squad,"
Paul quoted.
        "I know the unit, but not him." Allen said.  "Anything else,"
        "Blue nails, yellow skin; no wounds; Paul, look here; behind
the ear," Nick said.
        "What is it?" Paul asked.
        "Jack, picture." Nick ordered.
        "Nick," Allen inquired.
        "It's a circular bruise with a hole in the middle." Nick said.
        "A needle hole," Paul suggested.
        "Maybe, have Kathy examine that," Nick requested.
        "Done, anything else," Allen inquired.
        "Not really; Kathy's job from here." Paul said.
        "Agreed," Nick sighed.
        They stood up and followed Allen out of the alley, standing
at Kathy's side.
        "Well guys," Kathy inquired.
        "I told Allen; I found a circular bruise behind his left
ear, almost into the neck area with a needle hole in the middle."
Nick said.
        "Okay," Kathy replied.
        "I found his wallet; Jack has it." Paul replied.
        Kathy exhaled, "Thanks guys, and welcome back Nick; we
missed having you around."
        "Thanks, let's go, time for dinner.  Where to gents," Nick
inquired.
        "You go ahead; I'll ride back with them.  See you in the
morning; nine o'clock." Paul said firmly.
        "Coffee will be ready." Nick said.  "Thanks."
        "Cool," Paul replied, patting him on his upper back.
        Nick left them to tie up the scene, walking towards his car
climbing in, and started the engine closing the door.  He carefully
drove away from the curb, heading home and parked near the elevator. 
Nick turned the engine off climbing out, but saw LaCroix standing by
the trunk, and locked his doors.  Nick approached LaCroix, but felt
an uneasiness coming from him.
        "Lucien, what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "What are you planning?" LaCroix inquired.
        Nick hesitated, exhaling, "A quiet dinner, drinks and a ton
of fun with Molly; alone."
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said.
        "Trust me," Nick requested.
        "Completely," LaCroix said proudly.
        Nick shook his head slightly, "How was your first day?"
        "It felt the same, and yet; it was different," LaCroix
answered.
        "I know; it gets better then it gets crazy." Nick said. 
"Come on, I need to go."
        Nick and LaCroix rode upward in the elevator to the loft,
and stepped out into the living room; where Jamie and Molly were
waiting.  They embraced kissing each other, but Nick inhaled the warm
aroma of his favorite meal.
        "That smells great," Nick said.
        "Good, go clean up then come and eat." Molly suggested.
        "All right," Nick said.
        "I'll join you," LaCroix said.
        The women walked back to the dinner table while the men
walked up the stairs and entered Nick's bedroom.  Nick removed his
jacket and shoes, placed his things and gun in the drawer of his
nightstand.  He strolled into the bathroom closing the door, and
stripped down.  After washing his hands and slipped into his lounge
pants hanging on the rack.  He exited the bathroom; as LaCroix
strolled by him and closed the door.  Nick removed a white t-shirt
from his dresser, slipping it on as he heard the toilet flush and
LaCroix exited the bathroom fixing his zipper.  They left the bedroom
and joined the ladies at the table for a warm loving meal and simple
conversation.
        After they had cleaned up, placed the dishes into the
dishwasher; Nick grabbed the wine and Molly grabbed the glasses; they
retired to the living room sitting down on the couch; relaxing.
        "That was a wonderful dinner darling." Nick said.
        "Yes, very tasty." LaCroix added.
        "I'm glad; I'm tired," Jamie replied.
        "All right; you head up; I'll help Nicholas lock up."
LaCroix said.
        "Me too, let's go; do hurry, Love," Molly whispered.
        "I will," Nick replied eagerly.
        Jamie and Molly each gave them a loving kiss and slowly
walked up the stairs entering their own bedroom.  Nick sat there
staring at LaCroix making him uncomfortable.  LaCroix quietly cleared
his throat, placing his index finger on his dry lips.
        "It's rude to stare Nicholas," LaCroix said.
        Nick exhaled, "Tasty,"
        "Yes, it was an excellent meal," LaCroix said.
        "That word sounded odd coming from you." Nick said.
        "I'm learning to blend in." LaCroix told him.
        Nick chuckled slightly, "Good; have you got full control yet?"
        "Yes, let's lock up and go love the ladies." LaCroix
suggested.
        "Animal." Nick said grinning.
        LaCroix inhaled. "Yeah,"
        "Me too, get the door; I'll check the dishwasher," Nick
replied.
        They quickly ran around locking up the loft making their way
up the stairs and joined their wives in their own bedroom.
        Seeing Molly sitting on the bed wearing a pale pink silk
nighty rendered Nick speechless.
        "Something wrong?" Molly inquired.
        Nick hesitated. "I'm floored,"
        "Good, hurry up, it's cold," Molly suggested.
        "Right away dear," Nick said grinning.
        Nick quickly walked into the bathroom pulling down the front
of his lounge pants, holding his penis urinating and gave it a slight
shake.  He fixed his pants flushing the toilet and moved slightly
washing his hands; he also gave his penis a wash down.  He exited the
bathroom, walking towards Molly and stood in front her kneeling up to
kiss him.
        "That was nice," Nick said.
        "Thank you, feel like a little dessert?" Molly requested.
        "Always darling, one thing how's the loft downstairs?" Nick
inquired.
        "Almost ready," Molly said.  "That was a wonderful idea; we
can be together, but live on separate floors, and Jamie knows, to add
their personal touch."
        "Thanks, now, what is it you desire?" Nick questioned.
        "Surprise," Molly said grinning.
        "Uh-oh," Nick whispered.  "Get the condoms from your drawer;
my gun is in mine."
        "Okay," Molly replied.
        Molly reached over pulling out a few condoms and a towel,
placing the condom on her night stand and gave the towel to Nick.
        "Uh-oh," Nick mumbled.
        Molly sat down facing his stomach, slowly pulling the string
on his lounge pants and they fell around his ankles.  She began to
kiss, massaging him and stroked him firmly.  Nick's breathing became
erratic; he felt his arousal getting harder and his body getting very
hot.  Molly began massaging and stroking him; his testicles, faster
and harder.  Nick handed her the towel, touching her hand, and
quickly placed the towel on him.  She gave him a few quick strokes
exploding into the towel, and Nick whispered her name feeling his
knees buckling.
        "You okay," Molly inquired.
        Nick exhaled hard, "Yeah that was…"
        "I know," Molly said.
        Molly carefully placed the towel on the floor then looked up
into his eyes.  Nick smiled kissing her passionately, "Are you ready?"
        "Oh yeah," Molly giggled.
        The night hours slowly passed into early morning, LaCroix
and Jamie were downstairs preparing a hot breakfast for them.  They
set the table romantically and lit the two candles on the table.  A
light knock echoed from the door, LaCroix walked over unlocking the
door and Paul and Allen entered the loft closing the door behind
them.  LaCroix escorted them through the kitchen picking up two mugs
along the way and sat down at the table.
        "Morning Lucien; Jamie," Paul said.
        "Morning Paul; Allen," LaCroix replied.
        Allen smirked slightly, "Where's wonder boy,"
        LaCroix smiled, "Still upstairs with Molly."
        "Well, he better put more energy into it; we'll be late."
Paul replied.
        "Morning guys; I'm not late yet." Nick said, escorting Molly
to the table.
        "Sorry," Paul replied.
        "No problem, let's eat then at the station." Nick said.
        "Cool," Paul said.
        They spent about half an hour enjoying their warm meal and
light conversation.  Allen, Paul and Nick excused themselves from the
table and slowly left the loft, riding downward in the elevator and
outside to the caddy.  Nick and Paul climbed in while Allen climbed
into his truck; they started their engines and drove to the police
station downtown.  They parked along the left side of the building,
turning their engines off and climbed out.  They walked along the
path up the stairs and entered the building.  They strolled down to
Allen's office closing the door behind him.  They sat down exhaling,
and Allen warmed up his computer to begin the case.
        "Okay gents, let's begin.  We have one FBI agent murdered,
Arthur Gango; he was forty years old, and has been an agent six
years." Allen told them.
        "Enemies," Paul inquired.
        "Who doesn't in this job," Allen replied.
        Paul sighed, "True,"
        "What was he working on before he died?" Nick asked.
        "He closed a case two months ago; a guy was put away for
trying to bomb the subway." Allen briefed them.
        "Is he still in prison?" Nick inquired.
        "I believe so," Allen said.  "I'll call and check that out. 
Go check out the scene then see Kathy."
        "Yes sir." Paul said.
        "Cute," Allen said.  "Get moving; I'll call you when I find
out."
        "Thanks," Nick said.
        Nick and Paul exited Allen's office bumping into Reese,
"Where's the fire?"
        "Crime scene then Forensics," Paul said.
        "Keep me posted." Reese said.
        "Sure Cap," Paul said.
        They ran out of the building down the stairs over to the
caddy and climbed in.  Nick started the engine backing up and headed
back to the alley where the body was discovered.  He parked along the
edge of the alley; Paul removed latex gloves from the glove box,
handing a pair to Nick and they exited the car.  They slipped into
the gloves, picking a side and scanned everything in sight.  They
tossed a few boxes aside, scrambled through old newspaper, but when
Paul kicked a small box aside, a syringe fell out.
        "Nick, over here," Paul shouted.
        "What you got?" Nick asked.
        Paul carefully picked it up examining it then showed it to
him, "What do you think?"
        "Maybe, hold onto it." Nick replied.
        "Find anything," Paul inquired.
        Nick exhaled, "I found some silver balls by the outline
where his head was."
        "I don't have a bag," Paul said.
        Nick thought, "I'll pull the glove off inside out; trapping
them inside the glove."
        "Good idea," Paul said.  "I'll do the same for the needle."
        "Good, let's roll," Nick suggested.
        They carefully walked out of the alley, climbing into the
car and Nick started the engine.  He blended with the traffic driving
to the Forensics building and parked out front.  He turned the engine
off; they climbed out and ran up the stairs entering Kathy's lab. 
They saw her hovering over Arthur's body and exhaled loudly.  They
quietly approached her and leaned up against the slab.
        "Bad day," Nick said.
        "Yeah, hey guys," Kathy replied.
        "What you got?" Paul asked.
        Kathy sighed, "Well, Arthur was poisoned."
        "What?" Nick questioned.
        "Yeah, I don't know with what yet; blood analysis isn't back
yet." Kathy said.
        "Well; we found a needle and silver balls where his head
was." Paul said.
        "Really," Kathy replied surprised.
        "Yeah, there wrapped up in these gloves." Nick told her.
        "Leave them on the slab; silver balls; silver balls," Kathy
repeated.
        "What?" Paul inquired.
        "I'm guessing, but only one metal does that; mercury." Kathy
said.
        "Mercury," Paul replied.
        "Somebody injected mercury into his body," Nick said.
        "Yeah, maybe; I'll let you know later." Kathy told him.
        "Gross," Paul whispered.
        "I've only had one case like that before but years ago. 
I'll call you," Kathy said.
        "Okay, lunch," Paul suggested.
        "Raven," Nick requested.
        "Done, later," Paul said.
        They exited Kathy's lab walking down the stairs over to the
car, climbing in.  Nick started the engine, driving away from the
curb and headed for the Raven, pulling up out front, parking the car.
He turned the engine off; they stepped out and entered the club.
        They saw LaCroix and Jamie at the bar; Jamie sitting on a
stool with LaCroix leaning on her knees and she had her hands on his
belt.  Nick cleared his throat; Jamie looked up seeing them then
looked at LaCroix and he blushed slightly.  Nick and Paul strolled
down the stairs standing next to them, but Jamie laughed and excused
herself to make them a lunch.
        "Nicholas; Paul," LaCroix said.
        "Hey Lucien, got some cold water?" Paul inquired.
        "Yes, in the fridge, behind the bar," LaCroix told him.
        "Thanks; Nick," Paul replied.
        "Yeah, please," Nick answered.
        "Nicholas, something wrong?" LaCroix asked.
        "We have a dead FBI agent; possible mercury poisoning," Nick
briefed him.
        "Horrible.  Any ideas?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Not yet," Nick sighed.
        "Give it time," LaCroix replied.
        "More will die," Nick said.
        LaCroix sighed sadly, "I know,"
        A gentleman entered the club, walking down the stairs and
LaCroix caught a glimpse of him.  He slowly approached, clearing his
throat and smiled.
        "Hello, I'm Jason Brenner; I'm looking for a Lucien
LaCroix," Jason said.
        "Oh my, Vivian; I'm Lucien," LaCroix whispered.
        "I'm afraid I'm the deliver of sad news, I'm Vivian's
brother," Jason said.
        LaCroix suddenly shook, "Vivian,"
        "Yes; I've been asked to find you and deliver this letter to
you; she wrote it shortly before she was killed." Jason replied.
        "Thank you," LaCroix whispered.
        "Uhm---she loved you very much; thank you for giving her
happiness and love." Jason said.
        "I loved her; she was someone very special." LaCroix replied.
        "I heard of your marriage; may it be blessed and filled with
joy." Jason said.
        LaCroix hesitated, "Thank you,"
        "I will say good-bye for now; if you need me; my number is
on the envelope." Jason told him.
        "Thank you, good day," LaCroix said.
        "I'm sorry," Jason said slowly leaving the club.
        "Lucien," Nick said.
        "Uhm---we'll read it later; when we're alone; I can't right
now," LaCroix said softly.
        "All right, call me for anything, okay," Nick said.
        "I will," LaCroix said giving the letter a gentle squeeze.
        "Do you want me to hold it for you," Nick inquired.
        "Please; I don't know if…" LaCroix replied.
        "It's okay; remember Nat's letter," Nick said.
        "Yes; we'll read it later; becareful." LaCroix said slowly
walking away to the backroom.
        Nick left LaCroix alone with his memories of Vivian, walking
back to Paul, and saw Jamie.  Nick waved her over explaining what
took place, and Nick led Paul out of the club to his car, and drove
off.  Jamie walked into the backroom, up the few steps and into their
old room.  There, she saw LaCroix sitting on the bed with his face
buried into his hands crying and shaking.
        Jamie sat down placing her hand on his upper back, "Lucien,"
        "Jamie," LaCroix said turning, embracing her with tears
rolling down his face.
        "Nicholas told me," Jamie explained.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        Jamie exhaled, "Oh honey, let it go; I'm here,"
        LaCroix cried for his loss of Vivian; he was unable to at
the time, wrapping his arms around Jamie; he slowly leaned back and
Jamie wiped his eyes with tissues she had on her nightstand.  He
managed to compose himself sniffing his tears away and smiled
slightly looking into Jamie's eyes.
        "I'm sorry," LaCroix whispered.
        "For what," Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix exhaled, "When she died; I felt the sense of pain
and the loss, but never the human loss until Jason came in."
        "It overwhelmed you, the loss of her and the love you two
shared." Jamie replied.
        "Yes," LaCroix whispered.  "Nicholas, actually cried for
Natalie when she died, and he was a vampire then,"
        "Nicholas is a different issue; he never lost his humanity
in all the centuries you two shared together, plus she gave him back
a few human traits." Jamie explained.
        "True," LaCroix said relaxing.
        "What did he say to you?" Jamie asked.
        "He gave me a letter she wrote before she died." LaCroix
answered.
        "What does it say?" Jamie inquired.
        "Nicholas has it; we'll read it later; it's…" LaCroix said
hesitating.
        "When you're ready; we'll share it together." Jamie replied.
        "I promise," LaCroix said.
        Jamie smiled, "Good, let's finish up with the day shift, so
Scott can handle the night shift."
        "Okay," LaCroix replied.  "I love you,"
        "Love you too," Jamie said, kissing him passionately. 
"Lucien,"
        "Later, all right," LaCroix said.
        "Always," Jamie said.
        LaCroix and Jamie quickly left their room and finished
attending to the people in the club, so Scott can attend to the
vampires later.
        Nick and Paul headed for the east side of the highlands,
driving down a few side roads, and searched for Arthur's home.  Paul
spotted the house on their immediate right; Nick quickly drove into
the driveway, and turned the engine off.  They climbed out closing
the doors and walked up the path.  Paul knocked upon the door and
they patiently waited.
        A tired, but worn woman appeared at the door; black hair and
blue eyes that were red and swollen from endless crying, and looked
towards Paul; she did notice Nick and smiled slightly.
        "Mrs. Gango?" Paul inquired.
        "Yes," she said.
        "I'm Detective Paul Coletti; my partner, Detective Nick
Knight; may we come in?" Paul asked.
        "I'm Michelle, come in," Michelle said, opening the door.
        "Thank you," Paul replied.
        They entered the house as Nick closed the door behind them
and they stood in the kitchen.  Michelle slowly sat down at the
table, and looked towards them.
        "Have you found the person responsible for this?" Michelle
asked.
        "We're still looking; did he have anything happen before
this?" Paul questioned.
        Michelle paused, "Well, he and Hayden finished a case;
closed it and we were planning a quiet vacation before this."
        "I'm sorry; do you know what case?" Nick inquired.
        "He---uhm---he kept files at the computer; it's in the
living room on your right." Michelle told them.
        "I'll get them," Nick whispered.
        Nick excused himself leaving Paul with Michelle and searched
in and around the computer; looking for case files on CD's. 
Suddenly, his cell phone rang, pulling it out of his jacket pocket
and pushed the button.
        "Knight," Nick said.
        "Hey Nick; it's Kathy; its official, mercury poisoning."
Kathy told him.
        "Anything else," Nick inquired.
        "Nope, but the needle used is not the ultra-fine needle, its
hole is bigger, so he must have hit or sedated him first; those
results aren't back yet."
        "Thanks Kathy, call me when it does." Nick said hanging up.
        Nick discovered a box, a plastic box, picking it up and
opened it up.  Inside were CD's, but no labels.  He closed the box
and his cell phone rang again.
        "Knight," Nick announced, slightly winded.
        "Knight too," Molly replied.  "You okay,"
        "Hey luv, just working; what's up?" Nick said.
        "Well, the loft is ready and planning a beer night and
snacks there, and you later, if you are; hopefully," Molly said
giggling.
        "Always for you, Darling; that's great, see you soon, love
you." Nick said, hanging up.
        Nick placed his phone back into his pocket; picking up the
box and returned to Paul in the kitchen, "Mrs. Gango; May we take
these?"
        "If it would help you, yes," Michelle said.
        "Thank you; we're very sorry for your loss." Nick said,
tapping Paul's arm.  "We'll show ourselves out."
        Nick led the way towards the door exiting the house, and
Paul closed the door behind them.  They walked down the path climbing
into the car, and exhaled loudly.
        "Okay, I heard from Kathy; positive mercury poisoning; he
was also sedated, she's guessing." Nick told him.
        "And the second call?" Paul inquired.
        "Molly, the lofts ready; beer and snacks after the station. 
I want to put these in a safe place." Nick told him.
        Paul grinning, "And,"
        "And, let's roll," Nick said laughing.
        "Unfair," Paul replied pouting.
        "Life," Nick whispered.
        Nick started the engine carefully backing out of the
driveway and headed for the station.  He parked out front turning the
engine off, and grabbed the box.  They exited the car running up the
stairs and inside where Reese and Allen were waiting for them.
        "Well, guys?" Reese inquired.
        "We found this box of CD's; there cases he and Hayden had
worked on; including the one they closed two months ago." Nick said.
        "Great," Reese said.  "I'll have Tony play with them; eight
in the morning."
        "Yes sir." Nick replied.
        "I'll ride with Allen; that way he won't know something's
going on." Paul suggested.
        "Great, bye," Nick said as he ran out of the station.
        Nick climbed into the caddy, started the engine and headed
home.  He saw LaCroix outside waiting for him; he pulled into his
space and turned the engine off.  He climbed out locking the doors
and walked towards LaCroix embracing him.
        "Lucien, what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "I truly grieved for Vivian today; it was…" LaCroix said.
        "I know; we'll do the letter later, come on; surprise time. 
Oh, Jamie was told today because she wanted to surprise you." Nick
replied grinning.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix mumbled.
        "Nicholas, are you ready?" Scott inquired.
        "Hello Scott, yes we are; proceed." Nick suggested.
        "Welcome home Lucien, follow me please," Scott said.
        They followed Scott into the building where he saw the sign
that read, 'Mr. and Mrs. Lucien and Jamie LaCroix.'  They stepped
into the elevator riding up to the second floor; one floor under
Nick's loft and he looked over towards Nick who was grinning.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix whispered.
        "Shh," Nick whispered.
        The elevator slowly stopped at the second floor, the doors
opened into the living room with everyone waiting and yelled,
'surprise.'  LaCroix, for the first time was speechless, looked all
around him, similar to Nick's loft and yet; different.  Jamie
strolled up to him, embracing; LaCroix laughing pleasantly, and Scott
stood off to the side.
        "Lucien, these are your keys, deed and papers to the loft."
Scott said.
        "What?" LaCroix asked, stunned.
        Nick cleared his throat; Molly approached, embracing him,
"You and Jamie live here now, under us,"
        "I'm touched," LaCroix replied.
        "This way; we can live private lives and stay close," Molly
added.
        "Thank you so much; Jamie, where's your surprise?" LaCroix
inquired.
        "Later," Jamie whispered smiling.
        "Okay, sorry to be so blunt, but it's been a very long day
and I need to…" Nick said.
        "Follow me," Molly suggested.
        "Anywhere," Nick said.  "Get me a beer,"
        Molly took Nick by the hand leading him to the bathroom and
closed the door.  She turned around to give him the privacy he
needed; flushed and washed his hands.  Molly turned around to face
him, but his zipper was still down.
        Molly giggled, "You forgot something,"
        Nick displayed his boyish grin, "Did I?"
        "Here, now," Molly replied surprised.
        "Come here," Nick whispered.
        They kissed each other passionately; Molly lightly touched
him and felt how hard and hot he was.  Nick, himself, getting out of
control; his breathing erratic and his body shook slightly.
        "Honey, you okay," Molly inquired.
        "Ah---need, honey," Nick whispered.
        "All right, come on," Molly said.
        Molly quickly removed her clothes from the waist down and
leaned upon the sink and Nick pulled out a condom.  She quickly
pushed his pants down slipping the condom on and allowed him to
penetrate her.  Nick's breathing was hard and heavy, moving faster
and deeper, and she held his back for support.  "Ah---Molly---I can't
hold," he whispered.  Molly inhaled, "It's all right, do what you
need to do; it's okay, come on."  Nick moved faster, deeper then
suddenly moaned Molly's name; moved once or twice and she held him
until his breathing relaxed.  Nick's body was so hot, sweaty and
shaking all over.
        "You all right Nicholas," LaCroix inquired knocking on the
door.
        "He's fine Lucien," Molly answered.
        LaCroix laughed, "I see, no rush; take your time."
        Molly warmly stroked his back feeling his body slowly
relaxing and he moved slightly to face her loving eyes.
        "Oh honey, I'm sorry," Nick said.
        "For what," Molly inquired.
        "I was thinking about you all day; the phone call and
knowing I was coming here that I would see you; it was…" Nick
expressed.
        "Well, I'm honored.  I'm glad I was here; that was fun. 
Remember what we talked about awhile back; about each other's needs
and desires," Molly replied.
        "Yes, let me help you," Nick said.
        "Thanks, let's clean you up." Molly suggested.
        Nick helped her off the sink; she helped him remove the
condom and wash up.  They exited the bathroom with everyone
applauding; Molly blushed and Nick took a subtle bow.  LaCroix handed
him a beer and they enjoyed themselves for a short time.
        One by one; everyone slowly left the loft leaving the four
of them alone, and the girls were in the kitchen while Nick and
LaCroix sat down on the couch.  Nick pulled out the letter showing it
to him and LaCroix, terrified, opened the letter staring at it. 
Suddenly, a few tears; he exhaled and his hands were shaking.
        "Lucien," Nick said.
        LaCroix sniffed his tears, "Dear Lucien, you are reading
this because I have died.  I am sorry for the pain and loss you must
endure, but know I loved you very much; even vampires can and deserve
love.  Enjoy life and always remember me.  You deserve to be loved
and love someone in return.  Love, Vivian."
        "She knew," Nick said.
        "She never said," LaCroix replied.
        Nick exhaled, "She's right though,"
        LaCroix smiled, "True; how's the sink?"
        Nick, shocked, laughing, "Very strong,"
        They stood up embracing each other, and looked towards their
wives, "Molly, time to go,"
        "All right," Molly replied.
        "Night Jamie and thank you," Nick said.
        LaCroix smiled warmly, "Thank you,"
        Nick led Molly out of LaCroix's loft and they rode up to
their loft for the night.  Jamie saw LaCroix's sadden eyes and
embraced him.
        "What's wrong?" Jamie asked.
        "Vivian's letter; here," LaCroix said handing her the letter
to read.
        "Oh darling; she knew," Jamie said.
        "And yet; she still cared for me," LaCroix replied.
        Jamie smiled, "I can understand that,"
        "True," LaCroix whispered.
        "Follow me, it's time for my surprise," Jamie suggested.
        "Lead on," LaCroix replied.
        Jamie took LaCroix by the hand and led him up the stairs
into their new bedroom; made up in shades of a sunrise.  He was
amazed by the view standing by their bed covered in pillows.  A
slight tear rolled down his soft cheek then looked towards his wife
and smiled.
        "Lucien," Jamie whispered.
        LaCroix exhaled, "The gifts, since the wedding are…"
        "Overwhelming, and yet, well deserved and earned." Jamie
told him.
        "Well earned, thanks to God and my family of friends."
LaCroix said.
        "Especially your son," Jamie replied.
        "Yes, especially my son and my lovely wife," LaCroix said
smiling.
        "Thank you," Jamie whispered.
        "No, thank you for staying at my side," LaCroix said.
        LaCroix warmly embraced Jamie, holding and caressing her
warm body.  She slowly stripped as did LaCroix and he cradled her
upward into his arms lying her on the bed.  Jamie reached over
removing condoms from the drawer and placed them at her side. 
LaCroix lay along side of her stroking her legs and lightly kissed
them.  He felt her heat rising; her breathing became erratic and
heavy.  LaCroix gently ran his fingers through her pubic hair,
exploring every inch of her and slowly massaged her breasts watching
her nipples rise and become hard.  Jamie quivered with every stroke
he made and LaCroix gazed into her loving, trusting eyes.  He gently
rolled in between her firm thighs; she raised her knees allowing him
to penetrate her heat.  Jamie moaned slightly as he entered; he
moaned from the intense heat.  He slowly moved in then out, slightly
hitting her cervix; she moaned slightly whispering his name.  LaCroix
felt his arousal becoming harder and hotter; overwhelming his senses.
His body became sweaty and shaky; she became excited and tried to
pull him closer towards her.  LaCroix whispered, trying to hold,
"Jamie, I can't hold…"  Jamie grabbed hold of his waist, bringing him
deep inside, "Lucien, please it's so hot,"  "I can't hold," LaCroix
whispered.  "Come for me, please, Lucien," Jamie seductively pleaded.
He inhaled slightly moved deeper, harder then felt his essence
emerging deep inside of her; whispering her name.  He moved slightly
once or twice more and lay upon her warm breasts; winded from the
intense climax.
        "Lucien, Lucien, you all right," Jamie inquired softly.
        "Yes, that was a first for me," LaCroix told her.
        Jamie exhaled hard, "First what,"
        "I felt our heat come together," LaCroix replied.
        "Felt wonderful didn't it," Jamie replied.
        "Yes it was," LaCroix said, rolling onto his back.
        Jamie smiled, "Let's remove this, and we'll, uh-oh,"
        "What is it?" LaCroix asked.  "Are you or I hurt?"
        "No darling, but---uhm," Jamie hesitated.
        "Don't be afraid, what is it?" LaCroix questioned looking at
his penis, "Uh-oh,"
        "It broke, Lucien," Jamie said nervously.
        "Well, let's clean up, discuss this, but remember what I
said to Nicholas,"
        "That was," Jamie inquired.
        "If not, everything is fine, but if we are; and I stress; if
WE ARE, then we will handle it, all right," LaCroix said.
        "I love you," Jamie replied.
        "Love you too, come on," LaCroix suggested.
        Jamie reached for the towel helping LaCroix remove the
condom and cleaned him up.  They lay, side-by-side, on the bed of
what took place; of what may or may not change their lives.
        Upstairs in Nick and Molly's loft; they had snuggled under
the covers, arm-in-arm, and smiling.  She slowly stroked his stomach,
but appeared to be somewhere else.  He lovingly stroked her hair to
draw her attention to his blue eyes and smiled.
        "Molly, where are you?" Nick asked.
        "A few hours ago; I heard Lucien read the letter," Molly
told him.
        "And," Nick replied.
        '"It sounded sad, but filled with love," Molly replied.
        Nick exhaled, "Yes it was; like Natalie's,"
        "I remember," Molly said.  "How's Lucien handling it?"
        "He's doing better," Nick replied.
        Molly looked closer, "Lucien knocked on the door, what did
he want,"
        "I don't know, but he did ask how the sink was," Nick told
her.
        "And you said," Molly inquired, slightly blushing.
        "I told him it was very strong." Nick said laughing.
        "Oh you, time to sleep," Molly replied.  "Love you tons,"
        "Love you too," Nick said kissing her.
        They snuggled closer together under the warm blankets and
slowly drifted off to a peaceful sleep.
        ****
        The night hours slowly became early morning with the sun
rising over Toronto.  The sun shined through the blinds rolling
upward shining into Nick's eyes.  He slowly opened his eyes, seeing
Molly's glowing face and gently kissed her soft lips.  Molly rolled
over embracing him, kissing him passionately and she opened her eyes
to his boyish grin.
        "Morning," Nick said.
        "Morning, Darling," Molly replied.  "What's up?"
        Nick laughed, "One guess, but the guys will be here shortly,
so shower,"
        "You're on," Molly replied.  "Got to go first,"
        "Take turns then shower; I'll make the bed," Nick said.
        "Deal," Molly replied.
        While Molly used the bathroom; Nick made the bed then it was
his turn, and opened the door for Molly to join him in the shower. 
They spent about a half an hour cleaning and loving; Nick leaned over
turning the water off and they carefully stepped out.  Nick reached
for the towel drying each other off and exited the bathroom.  They
walked over to their own dresser, removing clean clothes and got
dressed.  They walked into the hallway, down the stairs and into the
kitchen preparing a fast breakfast.  Just as Molly sat down; a slight
knock echoed from the door and Nick strolled over to answer it.  He
opened the door allowing Paul and Allen in, closing the door behind
them.  They strolled through the kitchen, picking up a mug and joined
them for coffee.
        "Hey guys," Nick said.
        "That was a fun night and Lucien's," Allen snickered.
        "I'll bet," Paul said grinning.
        "Enough, but it was a lot of fun." Nick said.
        "Well, I have laundry to do before work; you guys behave."
Molly said.
        "Love you," Nick said.
        "Love you too," Molly said, leaving them alone.
        They waited for Molly to leave before discussing the case;
Nick moved closer to them to talk quietly.
        "Okay, what do we have so far," Nick inquired.
        "One FBI agent; murdered by mercury poisoning." Allen said.
        "Kathy thinks he was sedated first because of the size
needle used," Paul said.
        "We spoke to his widow and she let us search the computer
and I found a box of CD's." Nick said.
        "Hayden is another agent; we gave him time off to lay low. 
Tony and I worked on those; most of them are still in prison; two are
in the states and three are here." Allen said.
        "What about the case two months ago," Nick questioned.
        "He's here, but we haven't found him yet." Allen replied.
        "Revenge, maybe; he said something about a bomb in the
subway." Paul suggested.
        "Could be, but why," Allen said.
        "What was the case about again?" Nick asked.
        "Still waiting for the boss; I don't have clearance for that
level; I'm a level four; you need a level five." Allen explained.
        Suddenly, Nick's phone rang, standing up and walked over to
answer, "Knight,"
        "Hey Nick, a woman was attacked; she's at the hospital,
check it out." Reese said.  "Her name is Carmen Ratta,"
        "Okay," Nick said, hanging up, and returned to the table.
        "Uh-oh; I know that look," Paul said.
        "What look," Allen inquired.
        "The one that says a woman was raped; he'll be nuts," Paul
replied.  "Hey Nick,"
        "You're right; she's at the hospital, let's go; Carmen
Ratta," Nick told them.
        "Uh-oh," Allen whispered.
        "What?" Nick asked.
        "Her name is in the file; two months ago." Allen said.
        "Let's roll," Paul said.
        They cleared off the table; Nick strolled over to the table
by the couch, picking up his things and removed his gun from the
drawer, placing it into his holster.  Nick led the way out of the
loft riding down to the car and they climbed in.  Nick started the
engine, backing out and headed for the hospital; the upper levels,
parking near the front door.  He turned the engine off; they climbed
out and walked up the path, entering the hospital.  They approached
the front desk flashing their badges and requested the doctor on call.
        A few moments later, a doctor entered wearing all green with
a sadden face and stood by them, "I'm Doctor Mills; you are,"
        "I'm Detective Paul Coletti, my partner, Detective Nick
Knight and Allen Straton of the FBI; do you have a patient named;
Carmen Ratta," Paul questioned.
        "Yes, we did," Doctor answered.
        "Did," Allen said frustrated.
        "She died a few moments ago; Forensics will be here to
remove her for an autopsy.  She died from poisoning; not sure what
kind, but she was brutally raped and sodomized." Doc explained.
        "Damn it," Nick hissed angrily.
        "Cool down," Paul whispered.
        "Let's go, thanks Doc," Allen said.
        "I'm sorry," Doc replied walking away.
        They quickly walked outside and stood on the path, keeping a
close eye on Nick and his anger.
        "Nick, relax now," Paul said.
        Nick exhaled hard, "I know it's just…when a slime ball does
this to a woman; it's…"
        "I know; been there with you and I agree, but we need to
clear heads to nail his ass; okay," Paul said.
        "I'll try," Nick said.
        Paul slaps his back, "Don't worry; everybody is here for you,"
        "I know; I want to see the crime scene; call Reese, find out
where, let's go," Nick said.
        "Got it," Paul said.
        They quickly climbed into the car, hesitating, but Nick
pulled his cell phone, "Allen, use yours, call Kathy; tell her
a.s.a.p. on Carmen."
        "Done," Allen said.
        "Who are you calling," Paul inquired.
        Nick sighed, "Molly,"
        "Want us to leave," Paul questioned.
        "No," Nick said dialing Molly.
        Nick slowly dialed Molly at the Gallery, "Gautreau Gallery;
Molly Knight," Molly said.
        "Nick Knight," Nick replied.
        "Honey, what's wrong?  I can hear it in your voice." Molly
inquired.
        "A rape case and I needed to hear your voice." Nick told her.
        "Oh darling, lunch mandatory," Molly said.
        "I'll be there after the crime scene," Nick said.  "Love you,"
        "Love you too," Molly said hanging up.
        "Kathy said she'll call or stop by," Allen reported.
        "Her house; I have the address; Nick," Paul said touching
his arm.
        "Lunch with Molly after the crime scene," Nick said.
        Paul looked towards Allen, "Done, I'll drive; he and I will
go eat and pick you up afterwards; okay,"
        "Okay, thanks," Nick said.  "What's the address?"
        "It's---uhm---fifty-two and ninth; west." Paul told him.
        "Let's go," Nick said starting the engine.
        Nick exited the parking lot heading for Carmen's home and
parked in the driveway.  The house was covered in yellow tape and had
signs of medics being there.  Paul reached into the glove box
removing three pairs of latex gloves and passed them out.  They
exited the car, walking up the path and entered the house slipping
into the gloves.
        "All right; where?" Paul said.
        "Make a circle, right to left," Nick suggested.
        "Done, lead on," Allen said.
        They first scanned the living room, moved onto the kitchen
and then the bathroom; nothing unusual.  The place was a shambles;
pictures lined the walls; papers everywhere and clothes here and
there.  They came to her bedroom; where the rape took place.  The bed
was completely bare, no sheets or blankets; blood and semen all over
it.  Nick stood by the bed, pulling out his cell phone and called it
in.
        "Nick," Paul replied.
        "I'm okay, we wait for them then lunch, okay," Nick said.
        "Done," Allen agreed.
        They removed in the house exploring, waiting for Forensics
to arrive and do their job then clean up.
        ****
        At the Gautreau Gallery; Molly managed to clear off of her
desk, getting ready for Nick, knowing he would need special care, but
a knock echoed from the door and slowly opened.  Molly looked up, her
eyes filled with shock and fear.  There, before her stood her ex-
boyfriend from France.  Molly stood very close to her desk; praying
Nick would be there soon.
        "Richard," Molly whispered.
        "Molly Ebourn, it's been too long." Richard said.
        Molly exhaled, "It's Mrs. Molly Knight now; I'm married."
        "Who's the poor soul, darling?  You promised me." Richard
replied.
        "Until you hit me; it's over and done; I'm Nick's wife and
proud of it." Molly said, relaxing seeing Nick standing directly
behind him.
        "Who's Nick?" Richard asked.
        Nick cleared his throat, "That's me, Detective Nick Knight;
Metro Homicide."
        "I see," Richard said.
        "Do you?" Nick replied.
        Nick strolled by him holding Molly and gently kissed her
cheek; he felt her body shaking, "Hey darling,"
        "Hey darling," Molly said.
        "Your business here?" Nick inquired.
        "Saying hello," Richard answered.
        Nick inhaled, facing him directly, "You did, say goodbye. 
One more thing, don't bother my wife or life will be hell.  Do we
understand each other?"
        "Yes sir." Richard answered.
        "Have a nice day." Nick said.
        Richard, grinding his teeth, staring at Molly, slowly left
the room and closed the door behind him; Nick quickly turned around
embracing Molly until she stopped shaking.  Molly sat on the desk
glued to his body.
        "Here; I thought my day was bad; you okay; he didn't hurt
you did he?" Nick questioned.
        "No, just scared me; I never thought he would…" Molly replied.
        "It's all right; I'm right here; maybe take a vacation,"
Nick suggested.
        "I can't; I'll be fine," Molly replied.
        "Anything I can do," Nick inquired.
        Molly inhaled, looking into Nick's blue eyes, "I know it's
selfish, but I need…"
        "It's not," Nick whispered.
        Nick removed his jacket and gun placing them into the chair,
pulling out a condom from his back pocket and unbuckled his belt. 
Molly, hands still shaky, unzipped his fly, moving his pants slightly
down and she lightly touched him.  Nick gave her the condom; he
kissed her passionately as she slipped it on and he gently lay on top
of her penetrating her; Nick could see the tears in her eyes and
stopped.
        "Molly, you okay; am I hurting you?" Nick asked.
        Molly moaned, "No, please don't stop, please,"
        "All right," Nick said.
        Nick slowly moved loving her; he went deeper, feeling his
arousal getting harder and hotter.  He felt his essence approaching;
Molly held on tight, 'please, now, please,' she pleaded.  Nick,
breathing heavy, 'Molly---uh---I'm,' he said then suddenly stopped,
saying her name, moved once or twice and rested upon her chest.  Nick
leaned up gazing into her eyes and smiled.
        "You okay," Nick inquired.
        "Yes, much, that was wonderful," Molly said.
        Nick exhaled, "Same here; let me help you up."
        "Thanks," Molly said, sitting up and reached for the towel. 
"Nick, I'm…"
        "Before you say it; what have we said?" Nick said.
        "True," Molly whispered.
        "I was coming here for the same reason, so, we comforted
each other."
        "All right, you're right; let's take that off and clean him
up." Molly suggested.
        Just as they removed the condom, cleaning him off; Molly
fixed the belt and Nick zipped up; a knock then Paul entered.
        "OOPS, sorry," Paul said closing his eyes.
        "It's okay," Nick said.
        "Please tell me; after," Paul inquired.
        Nick chuckled, "Yes, after;"
        "Good, hey Molly; Forensics called, now; I'll be outside,
bye," Paul said closing the door.
        "He'll feel guilty all day," Molly said.
        "No, he'll raze me all day." Nick said.
        "I'm sorry, honey," Molly replied.
        "It's okay; if he comes back; call me, period." Nick said
firmly.
        "I will, but I'll be fine," Molly said.
        "I know, but please understand; he's a bomb set to go off; I
need to be firm here." Nick replied.
        "I promise; I'll have a guard outside the door; just in
case," Molly told him.
        "Thank you, love you," Nick said.
        "Love you too," Molly replied.
        Nick kissed her passionately, "Call me,"
        "I will," Molly whispered.
        Nick grabbed his jacket and gun; getting dressed and left
her office.  Nick climbed into the car, but didn't see Allen and
looked towards Paul.
        "Where's Allen?" Nick asked.
        "At the station; how's Molly?" Paul inquired.
        "Ex-boyfriend is in town," Nick told him.
        "Uh-oh," Paul said.
        "For him, yeah; let's go see Kathy and I promised to take
Lucien back to the doctor's." Nick said.
        "Okay," Paul replied.
        Nick started the engine, backing out of the driveway and
headed for the Forensics building.  Nick parked out front, turning
the engine off and they climbed out.  They ran up the stairs,
entering the lab and saw Kathy hovering over Carmen's body.  They
quietly walked in and stood along the slab, waiting.
        "Hey, Kathy," Nick whispered.
        "Hey guys," Kathy replied.
        "What is it?" Paul asked.
        "Carmen Ratta; thirty years old; she was poisoned by
mercury, but was brutally raped before she was." Kathy briefed them.
        "Damn," Nick whispered.
        "She was sodomized by a hot metal object; can't tell you
what because all the tissues along the vagina wall and cervix were
completely burned.  I did find some semen, but had to send it out
because of the condition of the body, so hopefully he's in CODIS and
we'll find him." Kathy explained.
        "Any prints?" Nick inquired.
        "Sadly, no," Kathy answered.
        "Great," Paul replied.
        "Was she FBI?" Nick questioned.
        Kathy hesitated, "Not sure, check with Allen,"
        "We need to run those files," Nick said.
        "Tell you what; you take care of Lucien and I'll play with
the files with Allen." Paul said.
        "Call me, okay," Nick replied.
        "I will, later," Paul said.
        Nick quickly left the lab running down the stairs over
towards his car, climbing in and started the engine.  He quickly
pulled away driving to the Raven to pick up LaCroix and pulled up out
front; where LaCroix was waiting.  LaCroix climbed in, very quiet and
Nick drove to the lower levels.  Nick turned the engine off, reaching
over, nudging LaCroix's arm.
        "Hey, what is it?" Nick asked.
        "Uhm---Nicholas," LaCroix said hesitating.
        Nick sensed something serious, but personal, "Lucien, what
is it?"
        "Do you remember when you thought Molly was…?" LaCroix
started to say.
        "Lucien," Nick said.
        LaCroix clearing his throat, "Well, we made love the other
night and realized it broke,"
        "Is she?" Nick questioned.
        "Too soon," LaCroix replied.
        "At your age, I shouldn't…" Nick said laughing slightly.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said.
        "I'm sorry," Nick replied.  "Plans are?"
        "If not; no problem; if she is; I'll be a true Daddy."
LaCroix said.
        "You already are; I'm proud of you, father," Nick said.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix whispered.
        "Don't worry; I'm always here; Molly too," Nick said.  "Come
on,"
        "I'm glad," LaCroix replied.
        They slowly climbed out of the car, walking towards the door
and entered the hospital.  They strolled down the corridor entering
Doc's office and closed the behind them.  They saw Doc talking on the
phone, glaring at LaCroix and hung it up sighing.
        "Lucien, something you wish to share?" Doc insinuated.
        "Uhm," LaCroix whispered.
        Doc laughed, "Lucien?"
        LaCroix placed both hands into his pockets, "It broke."
        Nick snickered, "At least you remembered."
        "Yeah, he forgot; anyway, wait a few days then bring her in
or buy a test." Doc said.
        "All right," LaCroix replied shyly.
        "Okay Lucien, you are one hundred percent human; everything
is normal and fully functional." Doc told him.
        "Great," LaCroix exhaled in relief.
        "Relax Lucien; has Tian appeared yet," Doc inquired.
        "Oh my, no," LaCroix said, slightly scared.
        "Don't worry; he can't touch you," Doc said.  "Now, go home
and becareful."
        "I will thank you," LaCroix said.
        They slowly left his office, walking outside to the car and
climbed in.  Nick noticed how distant LaCroix was, but also saw a
grin slowly appearing and tapped his arm.
        "What is it, what's the grin for?" Nick asked.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "A baby,"
        "What?" Nick replied.
        "A baby," LaCroix repeated facing Nick.
        Nick exhaled, "Talk to Jamie,"
        "Always," LaCroix replied.
        Nick smiled, "I would like a brother,"
        LaCroix chuckled loudly, "Home Nicholas,"
        Nick started the engine, driving out of the garage, heading
for the Raven and parked out front.  He turned facing LaCroix; still
laughing.
        "Here you go; I'm going home to Molly." Nick said.
        "Thank you," LaCroix said sighing.
        "Keep me posted, Dad." Nick said.
        LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Bye Nicholas,"
        "Bye," Nick whispered.
        LaCroix stepped out of the car, watching Nick drive away and
entered the club, seeing Jamie sitting on the bar; waiting for him. 
He strolled down the stairs walking towards Jamie and embraced her
tight, but sensed something was wrong.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "Lucien, about the possible…" Jamie said.
        LaCroix smiled, "If not, later, but I did give it thought
and I laughed, happily; being a true father felt warm, exciting and
scary."
        "I see, are you saying if I'm not; you wish to have one?"
Jamie inquired.
        "Oh, Darling; I only want a child if we both do; I would
never force you to do that." LaCroix told her directly.
        "I know," Jamie replied.
        "Jamie, we'll continue to use the condoms until the test is
done; have our answer and discuss the planning of our child." 
LaCroix replied smiling.
        "Love you so much," Jamie said happily.
        "Why are you still shaking?" LaCroix asked.
        "Scared and excited," Jamie answered.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Hmm---never be scared; I'm always here for
you; about being excited,"
        "Yes," Jamie said softly.
        "Do you have one; I'm not sure he can wait," LaCroix said
grinning.
        "I was hoping you would say that." Jamie said.
        Jamie moved closer to him, opening her legs, unbuckling his
belt and unzipping his fly.  LaCroix's breathing became erratic,
breathing heavy and hard, 'please, hurry,' he said.  Jamie moved his
pants, seeing his arousal hard and ready; she slipped the condom on;
he jumped slightly and she guided him in.  LaCroix gasped slightly
from the intense heat, 'I'm close darling.' he whispered, moving
faster; she wrapped her arms around him, they held each other as they
moaned louder, and Scott saw them from the backroom.  'I can't hold;
I'm…' LaCroix whispered, losing his balance.  'I've got you, come on,
come for me, please,' she said breathing heavy.  'Jamie,' he said as
his essence emerged; he moved once then exhaled hard.  Jamie stroked
his back, breathing heavy and laughed slightly.
        "You okay," Jamie inquired.
        "Much, you," LaCroix questioned.
        "Yes, where did that come from?" Jamie asked.
        LaCroix smiled, gazing into her eyes, "Let's go shower and
we'll talk about it in bed,"
        "Uh-oh," Jamie said.
        "Maybe, come on," LaCroix said.
        Jamie handed him a few towels to clean up and they strolled
into the backroom then headed home.  Scott quietly entered the club,
laughing, but stopped suddenly, someone was near; not a good feeling.
He began to clean up and prepare for the night shift.
        Nick had just arrived home; he kicked off his shoes, placed
his things on the table and his gun safely away when Molly snuck up
behind him and goosed him.  Nick jumped slightly laughing, turned
kissing her and smiled.
        "Hi," Molly said.
        "Hey, Darling got to go," Nick said running to the spare
bathroom.
        After doing his business in the bathroom, he returned to
Molly, kissing her passionately.
        "I'm sorry, long day and I was laughing so hard," Nick
briefed her.
        "What was so funny?" Molly asked.
        "Well, remember when you were late," Nick inquired.
        "Yeah, uh-oh," Molly replied.
        Nick grinning, "Well, Lucien said it broke, so who knows?"
        "That's not funny," Molly replied.
        "Well actually; he's pondering the idea; I told him I would
like a brother," Nick said grinning.
        "Nick, shame on you," Molly replied.
        "Sorry," Nick said grinning.
        "What about you?" Molly asked.
        "What about me?" Nick questioned.
        Molly smiled, "Have you pondered the idea of fatherhood?"
        "Yes, a lot," Nick said.
        "And," Molly replied.
        A slight knock upon the door, "Later, Darling; that's Paul
and Allen," Nick said.
        "Nick," Molly whispered.
        Nick walked over opening the door; Paul and Allen entered
the loft and saw Molly going upstairs.  They stood by the piano and
talked quietly.
        "Molly okay?" Paul inquired.
        "Yeah, we're having dinner with Lucien and Jamie here." Nick
told them.  "What you got?"
        "Tony and I played around and came up with a list; Paul and
I played tag and we have two possibilities." Allen said.
        "A case a year ago and the one two months ago." Paul replied.
        "Where are they now?" Nick asked.
        "I have an agent out in Texas checking on the year old case
and we'll check the two month one when Bill releases it." Allen
answered.
        "Cool," Nick said.  "Any hits from CODIS,"
        "Not yet," Paul said.
        "Ideas," Nick suggested.
        "Allen, was Carmen FBI?" Paul asked.
        Allen thought, "She was the decoy in the, oh man,"
        "What?" Nick asked.
        "Two months ago; in the states; Maine I think." Allen said.
        Molly came down the stairs waving to them and entered the
kitchen to prepare dinner.  LaCroix and Jamie suddenly entered and
strolled by, but LaCroix stood by the couch watching Nick.
        "All right guys; focus on that and round up in the morning
at the station." Nick said.
        "How are you holding up?" Paul asked.
        "I'm okay," Nick said.
        Paul grinned, "Molly helped,"
        "Always," Nick answered.  "Go on, later,"
        "Bye guy," Allen said.
        Nick closed the door as they left, turning around, seeing
LaCroix standing at the couch; waiting for him, and Nick cautiously
approached him.
        "Am I in trouble?" Nick asked.
        "I'm planning to buy a truck so Jamie can have the car."
LaCroix said.
        "Whoa, great idea; how is Jamie?" Nick questioned.
        "She's fine; nothing unusual yet." LaCroix said.
        "Come on; I'm starving." Nick said.
        They joined the ladies at the table enjoying a hot meal,
wine and water with warm conversation.  After about an hour of
sharing each other's company; they quickly cleaned up and retired to
the living room, snuggling on the couch.
        "What kind of truck are you looking for?" Nick asked.
        "A big one; good for camping, traveling, transporting and
the movies," LaCroix said.
        "Sounds like fun, Jamie, what do you think?" Molly said. 
"Jamie,"
        LaCroix looked at her then Nick, "She's asleep,"
        "It is late," Nick said.
        "Jamie, Jamie darling," LaCroix whispered.
        "Lucien, what happened?" Jamie asked.
        LaCroix laughed, "You fell asleep; let's go home."
        "Night guys see you tomorrow," Nick said.
        "Thanks, Molly, goodnight," LaCroix replied, walking Jamie
to the door.
        Nick quickly stood up with Molly at his side, "Lucien,"
        LaCroix saw his son's eyes, "We're fine, we'll do lunch at
the Raven."
        "All right," Nick said.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix replied.
        "Yeah," Nick replied.
        "Pick one up for her; I know it's a lot…" LaCroix said.
        "No problem; I'll get it, don't worry." Nick answered.
        "Thanks," LaCroix whispered.
        LaCroix and Jamie slowly left the loft and returned to
theirs.  Molly stepped around seeing the fear in his eyes and
carefully embraced him.
        "Nick, do you think," Molly inquired.
        "That Jamie's pregnant, looks like it or…" Nick said.
        "She's really tired." Molly replied.
        "I guess," Nick replied.  "Most women take about a month or
so before signs show up."
        "Not every woman is the same, and where it's her first time;
she might be different." Molly said.
        "Molly," Nick whispered.
        "Come on, time to rest.  Get her a test and we'll all know,
okay," Molly replied.  "Come on,"
        Molly led Nick upstairs to their bedroom and prepared for
bed.  Molly noticed the silence, the hesitation in Nick and lightly
touched his thigh.
        "Hey, what is it?" Molly asked.
        "It will sound silly," Nick said.
        "Try me," Molly suggested.
        Nick exhaled, "I'm scared."
        "Of what," Molly inquired.
        "Jamie seemed so helpless; fragile," Nick replied.
        Molly inhaled, "What about me?"
        "Yeah," Nick whispered.
        Molly laughed, "Darling, you're so sweet.  If she is; it's
just her body adjusting to the changes taking place, once done;
she'll be fine until labor time."
        "Really?" Nick replied.
        Molly smiled, "Really, come on, time to sleep."
        Molly snuggled along side of Nick under the blankets and
slowly drifted off to sleep.  However, in LaCroix and Jamie's loft;
LaCroix sat along Jamie's side holding her hand, and she finished a
glass of water.
        "How do you feel?" LaCroix asked, slightly scared.
        "I'm fine; Lucien, you're shaking." Jamie replied.
        "I'm scared for you," LaCroix answered.
        "Honey, I'm fine; just tired." Jamie replied.
        "Are you sure?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Oh honey; your thinking I'm pregnant," Jamie said.
        LaCroix sighed, "Well,"
        "That's still a possibility, but…" Jamie answered.
        "Nicholas is picking up a test for us, please," LaCroix
requested.
        "All right, but understand; it may still be too early."
Jamie briefed him.
        "If it says no, and you're still this way; we'll do it again
and call Doctor Mason." LaCroix replied.
        "All right, come to bed; I'm cold and I need you to warm me
up." Jamie said.
        "My pleasure," LaCroix said softly.
        LaCroix slowly crawled under the covers snuggling up against
her, wrapping his arms around her waist, and they slowly drifted off
to sleep with Jamie stroking LaCroix's back.
        ****
        The night hours slowly passed into early morning, sun rising
high, a slight chill in the air and Molly slowly rolled over opening
her eyes seeing Nick sound asleep.  Molly leaned up lightly kissing
him; no response; she then turned up the heat and kissed him
seductively.  Nick slowly wrapped his arms around Molly's waist,
embracing, kissing her in return.
        "Morning," Nick replied smiling.
        "Morning, Darling," Molly said.  "How do you feel today?"
        "I'm okay; still worried about Jamie." Nick answered.
        Molly smiled, "You're so sweet; all right, time to get up
and get ready."
        "Do I have to?" Nick said pouting.
        "Yes, come on; I'll massage your back," Molly told him.
        "That's it," Nick replied sadly.
        "Maybe," Molly seductively whispered.
        "Lead on, ladies first then me," Nick said.
        "Deal," Molly replied, crawling off the bed.
        Nick followed her out of the bed and prepared for the day. 
Downstairs, in LaCroix's loft, he woke up looking at Jamie and
noticed she was sweaty and shaking.  LaCroix sat up leaning over and
shook her.  Jamie quickly woke up reaching for LaCroix.
        "Lucien, what's wrong, bad dream," Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "I'm fine, you're all sweaty and
shaking."
        "Oh sorry; I thought it was you," Jamie replied.
        "How do you feel?" LaCroix asked.
        "Not sure," Jamie said lying on the bed.
        LaCroix glanced at her slowly placing his hand upon her
stomach, stroking her and smiled.
        "Penny for your thoughts," Jamie said.
        "Uhm---wondering, dreaming," LaCroix said.
        "It feels good," Jamie replied, touching his hand.
        "Lucien; you will make a wonderful father; look at
Nicholas," Jamie replied.
        "But I never changed his diapers," LaCroix replied.  "And
you will be a beautiful mother; this is right."
        "Planning a child?" Jamie inquired.
        "Yeah," LaCroix whispered.
        "Yes, it's wonderful; come on, shower and work day," Jamie
told him.
        "No heavy stuff," LaCroix ordered.
        "Lucien," Jamie said.
        "Jamie," LaCroix said firmer.
        Jamie sighed, "Yes darling,"
        "Please," LaCroix softly pleaded.
        "Follow me," Jamie said, crawling out of the bed and led him
into the bathroom to clean up for the day.
        Upstairs in Nick and Molly's loft; they were enjoying their
coffee after a warm breakfast.  A slight knock echoed from the door,
it slid open and Paul walked in sitting down in the chair exhaling. 
Nick glanced at Molly, in fear of asking, but his curiosity got to
him.
        "I'll bite; what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "Dog house," Paul said.
        "For what," Nick inquired.
        "I forgot to pick her mother at the airport." Paul told them.
        "Uh-oh," Molly replied.
        "Why didn't you tell me?  I would have made sure you got
her." Nick said.
        "I know; I'm an idiot." Paul said.
        "No, you're not; come on, we need to check in and play with
those CD's." Nick said.
        "I guess," Paul mumbled.
        "Tell you what, while I'm at the Raven; you plan a lunch,
roses and a romantic meal with Carla; two hours then meet me at the
station." Nick replied.
        "I'll try," Paul replied.
        "Good," Nick said.  "Bye, love, call me,"
        "Day off today; I'll be here," Molly said.
        "Tempting," Nick said grinning.
        "Have a nice day; roast pork tonight." Molly said.  "Love
you, bye."
        He stood up tapping Paul's knee and they quickly left the
loft.  They rode down in the elevator, outside to the car and climbed
in.  While Paul called Carla; Nick started the engine backing out
driving to the station and parked along the right side of the
building.  He turned the engine off; they climbed out and headed
inside where Allen was waiting for them.  Allen waved them down to
his office closing the door behind them and they sat down around
Allen's desk with hot coffee.
        "Okay, we have some new stuff to add.  Paul write notes."
        "Let it rip." Paul said.
        "What you got?" Nick asked.
        "Recap; we have one FBI agent dead and one woman decoy; both
related to the case two months ago.  They were both poisoned with
mercury and the new item; the semen results came in." Allen said.
        "Well," Nick inquired.
        "Unknown, but Mark Ting's fingerprint was on her; ex-FBI
agent, fired; threatened to bomb the subway, and I was his
replacement." Allen told him.
        "What?" Paul questioned in slight shock.
        "Two months ago Mark Ting was put away for his threat;
murder of six people and he's mean and nasty." Allen explained.
        "Add two more to that list." Paul said.
        "Do you think he will still bomb the subway?" Nick asked.
        "Yeah, try to anyway." Allen replied.
        "Great," Nick whispered.
        "Any marks on him," Paul inquired.
        "Says here; he has a cobra's head tattooed on his upper left
arm; he's also a kendo expert." Allen briefed them.
        "Sounds like he's eliminating the replacements; maybe carry
out his threat of the bomb." Nick said.
        "Possibly, we need to find him fast." Allen said.
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang, pulling it out from his
pocket, "Knight,"
        "Knight here," Molly replied.
        "Hey Love, you okay," Nick inquired.
        Molly laughed, "Yes, miss you; we need Capri wine for dinner."
        "I'll pick one up, miss and love you," Nick said.
        "Love you too," Molly replied.
        Nick pushed the button, hanging it up, but it rang again,
"Knight,"
        "Nick, blood results are in, stop by," Kathy requested.
        "Okay," Nick answered, hanging up.
        "Let me guess, Molly first; she's lonely," Paul replied,
"And?"
        "Funny, Kathy, blood results are in, let's go," Nick told him.
        Paul sighed, "Married life; the love and the…"
        "Enough, you'll find out in a few months," Nick said.
        "True, lead on," Paul replied glancing at Allen.
        Nick led the way out of Allen's office, out of the building
to the outside and walked down the stairs over to the car climbing
in.  Nick started the engine, drove away from the curb and drove a
few blocks down to the Forensics building.  He parked out front
turning the engine off; they climbed out and ran up the stairs inside
of Kathy's lab.  They saw Kathy leaning over a microscope on the
slab, smiling and writing a few notes into a file.
        Kathy heard them walking in, raised her head and grinned,
"Hey guys,"
        "What you got?" Paul asked.
        "Well, the semen came back unknown sadly, but not the blood;
some was Carmen's, but also Mark's." Kathy said.
        "Did you run it," Paul inquired.
        "Still waiting; no hits yet, sorry," Kathy replied.
        "Call us, a.s.a.p." Nick requested.
        "Sure thing," Kathy answered.
        Nick's cell phone rang, "Knight,"
        "Hey Nick; can you two come back?  Bill's here and with a
witness." Allen told him.
        "On our way," Nick said, hanging up.
        "Allen, Bill's at the station with a witness." Nick briefed
him.
        "Cool, thanks, Kathy." Paul replied.
        "Thanks," Nick said.
        "Anytime," Kathy said.
        Nick and Paul quickly left the lab running down the stairs
and climbed into the car.  He started the engine and drove back to
the station to meet with Allen and the others.
        ****
        At the Raven, LaCroix and Jamie finished cleaning up after
the morning rush and sat at the bar drinking water.  Scott quietly
walked in from the backroom and stood by LaCroix hesitating.
        "Lucien, may I get you anything?" Scott asked.
        "I would like some strawberries," LaCroix said.  "Jamie,"
        No answer, but LaCroix touched her leg, "Yes?" Jamie
whispered.
        "Are you all right?" LaCroix asked.
        "A little tired," Jamie said.
        "Why not go upstairs and lie down for awhile?" LaCroix
suggested.
        "Okay, thanks," Jamie replied.
        Jamie reached over kissing LaCroix upon his cheek and walked
into the backroom to rest in their old room.
        Scott turned his attention towards LaCroix with great
concern, "Lucien, is there something wrong with Jamie?"
        LaCroix laughed, "Well, not to be too blunt, a condom broke
and its possible Jamie's pregnant."
        "Is this good news," Scott inquired.
        LaCroix smiled, "Yes, we're planning to add a child.  We
discussed it; if she's not, we're planning to."
        "That's wonderful; I wish you the best." Scott replied.
        "Yes, splendid," Tian said from the far corner.
        "Lucien," Scott said.
        "What is it?" LaCroix asked.
        "Behind you," Scott told him.
        LaCroix turned around and saw Tian standing a few feet away.
LaCroix stood to face him, sent Scott to Jamie and call Nick.
        "Tian, not long enough," LaCroix said.
        "Human," Tian said feeling disgusted.
        LaCroix smiled proudly, "Yes I am."
        "Jamie as well, and with child," Tian replied.
        "I don't remember, but enough, you have no right here;
you've lost all of us, say goodbye and don't return for any reason."
LaCroix said.
        Suddenly, from behind him, Nick appeared, "Lucien, you okay?"
        "Yes, I'm fine," LaCroix replied.
        "I'll be in touch," Tian said, flying away.
        "Are you sure?" Nick inquired.
        "Yes, hungry," LaCroix questioned.
        "Yeah, here; now, it's best first thing in the morning;
she'll do the test and you go in; take a leak or something and read
it together.  That way, you both did it." Nick said.
        "All right, is that how you two did it?" LaCroix asked.
        "Yeah," Nick answered.  "Where's Jamie?"
        "Resting," LaCroix replied.
        "I'm back; is he gone?" Scott asked.
        "Yes food please," LaCroix requested.
        "Right away," Scott replied.  "She's sleeping."
        "Thank you," LaCroix said.  "Jamie and I talked about this."
        "And," Nick inquired.
        "We will wait for the results; if she is, wonderful, if not;
we're planning one." LaCroix told him.
        "Fantastic," Nick said happily.  "Molly and I are getting
itchy for one."
        "Really?" LaCroix replied, not totally surprised.
        "Here you go," Scott said.
        "Thanks, yeah, we need to talk more about it." Nick answered.
        "Always," LaCroix said.
        "Keep me posted; I need to pick up Paul and head back to the
station.  Scott, Molly's ex-boyfriend is in town; watch over her; he
was abusive towards her in the past." Nick expressed his concern.
        "No problem." Scott said.
        "Thanks, she's at home; alone; I'll be there shortly.  No
killing, unless he harms her and don't bring him across." Nick
instructed.
        "All right," Scott said.  "I'm on my way."
        "Safe journey, Scott," LaCroix replied.
        "Lucien, call me, please," Nick requested.
        LaCroix smiled, "I will; I'll go to Jamie,"
        Nick embraced LaCroix slowly leaving the club returning to
the station; Scott used the tunnels to watch Molly and LaCroix walked
into the backroom then entered the small room seeing Jamie on the
bed.  He placed the bag by his side and sat down by her side.  Jamie
opened her eyes and saw the worry and fear in LaCroix's eyes.  She
sat up embracing him and stroking his back then saw the bag.
        "How do you feel?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Rested," Jamie answered.  "What's in the bag?"
        LaCroix smiled, "Our test for the morning."
        "Great," Jamie said shying away.
        "What's wrong?" LaCroix asked.
        "I'm not sure," Jamie replied.
        LaCroix sighed, "Well, let's go home, relax and talk about
it."
        "Okay, lead on," Jamie said kissing him passionately.
        LaCroix led the way out of the club to the outside and
locked it up.  They climbed into the car, driving out of the alley
and headed home.
        Scott hovered above the sky window watching Molly walk
around and prepared a warm dinner for Nick.  Molly was about to sit
down on the couch when the buzzer went off; she walked over to answer
it and Scott swooped in to join them.
        "Richard," Molly said stunned.  "How did you know where to
find me?"
        "It's in the book." Richard told her.
        "Hey, Molly, Nicholas home?" Scott inquired.
        Molly inhaled, "Not yet,"
        "Mind if I wait?" Scott queried.
        "Uhm---no---come in," Molly said.
        "Thanks, I'll be at the piano." Scott said.
        Scott walked by Richard who tried to stop him, but Molly put
up her hand, "Richard, you're not welcomed here or the Gallery."
        "Do you realize what took place after you left; my
position?" Richard said firmly.
        "That has nothing to do with me; I'm happily married and
very much in love with him.  I want you to leave and never return."
Molly said strongly.
        "You don't have the right," Richard said moving towards her.
        "If you wish to see the sunrise; you will leave here, now,"
Scott demanded.
        "You are?" Richard inquired.
        Scott walked over standing in front of Molly, "The name is
Scott James; friend of the family; Mrs. Knight said leave; I suggest
you do so, or do you need assistance,"
        "No," Richard answered.
        "Well?" Scott inquired.
        "Fine," Richard replied.  "Don't return to the Embassy."
        "Fine," Molly whispered.
        Richard turned about leaving; Scott closed then locked the
door and faced Molly with tears in her eyes.
        "You all right?" Scott said.
        "Yeah, help me carry the food downstairs; we're staying
there tonight." Molly requested shaking.
        Scott hugged Molly a few moments to calm her nerves, "Sure,
come on, but let me call the Raven, get things ready." Scott said.
        As Molly walked off gathering the food for dinner with
LaCroix and Jamie; Scott stood aside with his cell phone and dialed
Nick.
        ****
        At the station in Allen's office; they had finished the
round-up and exhaled loudly from exhaustion.
        "All right; that's it for now; it's getting cold.  I heard
from Maine; nothing there." Allen said.
        "So far; it's just Mark Ting, but this is too big for him;
there's someone else," Nick suggested.
        "Well, everything points to the bombing case." Paul replied.
        "How convenient," Nick said.
        "Talk," Allen suggested.
        Mark Ting is involved, but someone is making sure it sits on
him; what was the case a year ago about." Nick inquired.
        "Interesting, hold that thought," Allen said, playing with
the keyboard to the computer.
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang pulling it out of his
pocket, "Knight,"
        "Nicholas, it's Scott; Richard was here," Scott told him.
        "Is she all right?" Nick inquired.
        "A little shaken, but she's fine; I threatened him," Scott
explained.
        "Good, stay with her; I'll be there soon." Nick replied.
        "We're going to LaCroix's loft for dinner; you're staying
the night.  I'll stay here to secure it." Scott said.
        "Thanks Scott," Nick said hanging up.
        "Problem?" Paul replied.
        "Ex-boyfriend found the loft and bothered Molly." Nick
replied.
        "What's his name?" Allen asked.
        "Richard LeBleu; he's someone big in the Embassy." Nick
answered.  "Why?"
        "Later," Allen said.  "How's that case?  Oh shit," 
        "What?" Nick asked.
        Allen laughed slightly, "Unreal; figure this out; the year
old case involved transportation of illegal weapons from Russia to
the shores of France."
        "No way," Nick replied stunned.
        "Oh yeah; the apparent leader was never found; claimed
diplomatic immunity and the bombing started in South of France to
here." Allen explained.
        "This is huge," Paul said.
        "I'm afraid so; I'll call Bill; get his opinion on this;
huge round up tomorrow." Allen replied.
        "Now what?" Nick asked.
        "Go home and get happy." Allen suggested.
        "Done," Nick replied.  "Need a lift?"
        "I've got the truck, smooch Molly for me." Paul replied.
        "Call me Allen; I have a bad feeling; this will explode in a
bad way." Nick told him.
        "I hear you, later," Allen said.
        Nick exited Allen's office walking through the station and
outside to his car.  He climbed in closing the door and exhaled
loudly.  He pulled out his cell phone calling LaCroix and started the
engine.
        "Hello?" LaCroix replied.
        "Hey, Lucien, how's Molly?" Nick asked.
        "She's fine, are you on your way?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Yeah, need anything?" Nick questioned.
        "No, we're fine." LaCroix answered.
        "Jamie," Nick inquired.
        "The same; see you soon." LaCroix said hanging up.
        Nick hung up his phone placing it back into his pocket and
headed for home.  LaCroix walked into the living room where the
ladies were enjoying cold water and light conversation.
        "That was Nicholas; he'll be here shortly." LaCroix told them.
        "Great, then we'll eat." Molly said.
        "Jamie, how are you feeling?" LaCroix inquired.
        Jamie hesitated, grinning, "I'm fine; a little tired."
        "Still," LaCroix sighed concerned.
        "I'm sorry honey, let's fix the table and eat when Nicholas
arrives."
        "Nothing to apologize for, darling; I'm just worried about
you.  Come on," LaCroix said extending his hands to the ladies.
        LaCroix warmly escorted them to the table setting it
romantically and Molly lit the candles, just as LaCroix pulled out
Jamie's chair, the door opened with Nick running in and Molly running
embracing him tight.
        "Oh, I needed that, but hold for a moment, be right back,"
Nick said.
        "Hurry," Molly replied.
        Nick ran into the spare bathroom; forgot the door and
unzipped.  He urinated exhaling in relief and zipped up.  He flushed,
washed his hands and returned to Molly's arms.
        "Better," Molly said smiling.
        "Much how was your day?" Nick inquired.
        "A very clean home and Richard found it." Molly said.
        "I know, you okay?" Nick inquired concerned.
        "Yeah, how was your day?" Molly questioned.
        "Crazy," Nick said sighing.
        "I have a cure for that." Molly said.
        Nick grinned, "I'll bet; let's eat."
        "Come on," Molly replied walking by his side.
        They strolled over to the table; Nick kissed Jamie's cheek,
stroked LaCroix's upper back and sat down next to Molly.
        "Sorry; I'm late," Nick apologized.
        "No problem, let's eat." LaCroix suggested.
        They each took turns serving the hot meal and cold water. 
They enjoyed subtle conversation, a few laughs and loving thoughts of
each other.  After about an hour; they cleaned up and ran the
dishwasher.  They stood at the staircase and glanced around the loft.
        "Everything's done," LaCroix said.
        "Great," Jamie replied.  "You two are at the end of the hall."
        "Lead on," Nick said yawning.
        "Poor soul," Molly whispered.
        "Can you ladies give us a minute alone?" Nick requested.
        "Jamie, you go and rest," LaCroix instructed.
        "Don't be long," Molly suggested.
        "Trust me; I'm ready," Nick said grinning.
        "Uh-oh," Molly said walking up the stairs with Jamie.
        Nick waited for them to disappear, "Lucien, how do feel?"
        "I'm actually scared," LaCroix said.
        "That's normal, why?" Nick inquired.
        "To actually know there's a life that's truly part of me and
Jamie; mainly me." LaCroix replied.
        "If the tests says no, then what?" Nick questioned.
        "Make it say yes later." LaCroix answered.
        "Animal," Nick replied.
        "You and Molly?" LaCroix inquired.
        "We're still talking about it, maybe," Nick said.  "Let's go."
        Nick led the way up the stairs and they entered their own
bedroom.  Nick saw Molly lying down under the blankets; naked and
smiling.  Nick could only smile and stripped down to his underwear. 
He slowly sat down and exhaled.
        "Man talk?" Molly inquired.
        "He's a very scared potential Dad." Nick said laughing.
        "I see," Molly replied.
        "He asked about us," Nick replied.
        "And," Molly said.
        "I said we're talking about it," Nick answered.
        "Are you ready?" Molly asked.
        Nick exhaled, "Is anyone truly ready?"
        "True," Molly said.
        "My fear is you; you carry the baby, tend to it and the
labor part," Nick said.
        "Will you be there with me?" Molly asked.
        Nick snuggled close to her, "I wouldn't miss it for the
world."
        "I'm ready and willing if you are," Molly said.
        Nick smiled with watery eyes, "Yes,"
        "When?" Molly whispered.
        "Now," Nick said.
        Molly inhaled, "I love you."
        Nick slowly removed his underwear climbed under the blankets
with Molly; they embraced and massaged each other.  Molly reached
down stroking his hardness; he moaned with every stroke.  Their
breathing became erratic and heavy.  Nick rolled in between her legs;
she raised hers allowing him to penetrate her and she moaned, moving
slightly from his intense heat.  Nick slowly rocked in then out,
moaned with her heat.  Molly held onto his back, feeling the out of
control heat from him.  'Ah---Molly---I,' Nick whispered going
deeper.  'Please,' she pleaded.  'Molly, I can't hold,' Nick said
breathing heavier.  'Don't, please,' Molly moaned.  He moved slightly
faster, going deeper and felt his hot essence explode deep inside
her; hesitated.  He moved once or twice then rested his sweaty head
upon Molly's warm chest and exhaled.
        "You okay?" Molly inquired winded.
        Nick breathing hard, "Yeah, you,"
        "Very hot," Molly answered.
        "Same here, love you," Nick said.
        "Love you too, darling," Molly replied.
        Nick and Molly cuddled, loving and maybe slept for the
night.  But in LaCroix and Jamie's room; he saw Jamie lying down
looking distant and he slowly sat down at her side rubbing her
stomach.
        "What's wrong?" LaCroix asked.
        "I'm nervous, and…" Jamie paused.
        "Scared, I can understand that, but always know, I love you
and I will always be here for you and the baby." LaCroix told her.
        "I know, are you," Jamie replied.
        "So much has happened; changed since our wedding night; yes
I'm scared, but it seems calming knowing we have each other, Nick and
Molly and our family of friends." LaCroix said.
        "True, let's get some sleep so we can test in the morning."
Jamie said.
        LaCroix smiled warmly snuggling along side of Jamie and they
drifted off to sleep.
        ****
        The night hours slowly passed into early morning, sun
shining high above the city, not a cloud in the sky, but a slight
chill with a dusting of snow upon the ground.  The sun beamed into
Nick and Molly's room waking Molly up first then she kissed Nick.  He
slowly opened his eyes seeing her glowing smile and gave her one in
return.
        "Morning," Nick said.
        "Morning, darling," Molly replied.
        "You okay," Nick inquired.
        "I'm fine, any regrets about our decision?" Molly queried.
        "None, you," Nick replied.
        Molly giggled slightly, "None, happy?"
        "Very, immensely…" Nick answered proudly.
        "Okay, okay, let's prepare a hot breakfast; let them be
alone on this floor." Molly suggested.
        "Great, shower," Nick requested.
        "I'll race you," Molly said grinning.
        They quickly climbed out of bed with Molly entering the
bathroom first then Nick and Molly showered for the day.  After about
an hour of dressing; they walked down the stairs and entered the
kitchen preparing a warm breakfast.  However; upstairs, LaCroix woke
up first sitting on the edge of the bed holding the pregnancy test
and exhaled.  Jamie felt the motion of him on the bed, woke up and
sat next to him.
        "Lucien, what is it?" Jamie asked.
        "This is it," LaCroix mumbled.
        "Come on," Jamie said hugging him.
        LaCroix opened the box handing her the test strip, "I'll be
right here, and we'll read it together."
        "Deal, love you," Jamie replied.
        "Love you too," LaCroix said.
        Jamie slowly stood up, walked into the bathroom and closed
the door.  About ten minutes passed by and Jamie walked out sitting
down at LaCroix's side.
        "You okay," LaCroix inquired.
        "Nervous, but okay," Jamie said.
        LaCroix exhaled, "All right, I need to go and I'll bring the
test out for us to read."
        "Okay," Jamie whispered.
        LaCroix stood up walking into the bathroom and closed the
door.  He stood by the toilet pulling down the front of his lounge
pants and held his penis.  He urinated, fixed his pants and flushed. 
He moved towards the sink washing his hands and dried them then
picked up the test strip.  He opened the door walking towards Jamie
and stood in front of her.  Jamie looked up into his eyes and saw a
flow of tears rolling down his face.  Jamie stood to face him and
held him at his waist.
        "Lucien," Jamie whispered.
        LaCroix sniffed his tears back, smiling, "We're pregnant."
        "What?" Jamie asked surprised.
        LaCroix embraced Jamie, spinning her around, "We're having a
baby."
        "Oh, Lucien," Jamie replied crying.
        They kissed and embraced each other over the loving news of
an addition to their family.  They quickly showered, dressed and
cleaned up the room.
        Nick and Molly had finished setting the table, and heard
them coming down the stairs.  They walked towards them, meeting them
at the bottom of the stairs and stood in silence.
        "Well?" Nick inquired.
        "Well what," LaCroix said.
        "Lucien," Nick replied louder.
        LaCroix grinned with tears, "Oh; we're pregnant."
        "Yes, fantastic; I'm thrilled," Nick yelled embracing
LaCroix and kissing Jamie.
        Molly smiled, "I'm so happy for you both,"
        They embraced each other in the joy of the news.  They
walked over to the table, and enjoyed a hot breakfast and toasted to
the new life.
        "I'm so thrilled; I'm an Uncle," Nick said beaming.
        "Yes you are, and Molly's an Aunt." LaCroix replied.
        "Yeah, and you are a Daddy; Dad," Nick said directly to him.
        LaCroix sniffing his tears, "Yes,"
        A slight knock echoed from the door, LaCroix yelled, 'come
in,' and Paul entered with Allen behind him.  They stood at the table
and felt the overwhelming excitement in the room.
        "Okay, who did it?" Paul asked.
        "He did." Nick said.
        "What?" Allen asked louder.
        "Jamie and I are expecting a baby." LaCroix answered proudly.
        "Whoa," Allen said.
        "All right Lucien; Jamie," Paul said happily.
        They each embraced LaCroix and Jamie then sat down by Nick.
        "Fantastic, I'm thrilled," Paul said.
        "Me too; the very best," Allen replied.
        "When this case is done; we'll have a legal dinner party."
Paul replied.
        "Great idea," Jamie said.
        "But sadly; work time; I'll stop by and don't forget to call
Doctor Mason." Nick said.  "Molly,"
        "I'll help clean up and I'll be at the Gallery, home at
three; it's an easy day today." Molly told him.
        "I'm speechless Lucien, that's how thrilled," Nick said.
        "Thank you; safe journey," LaCroix replied.
        "Forensics first; let's go," Nick said.
        They quickly stood up, but Nick kissed Molly then Jamie and
embraced LaCroix.  Nick followed his friends out of the loft riding
down in the elevator and outside to the car.  Nick and Paul climbed
into the caddy while Allen jumped into his truck; they started their
engines and quickly drove to the Forensics building parking out
front.  They exited their cars walking up the stairs and inside. 
They walked into Kathy's lab and saw her hovering over a microscope
with a horrified look on her face.
        Allen approached her, "Honey, what is it?"
        Kathy jumped slightly, "Don't do that."
        "Sorry," Allen apologized.
        "All right; we have two dead; one agent and one woman; she
was sodomized by a metal rod that was extremely hot." Kathy replied.
        "What?  She wasn't alive, I hope," Paul inquired.
        "I don't know, but he left semen behind, and Rubert called
with the results." Kathy briefed him.
        "And," Nick questioned.
        "Classified; Diplomatic," Kathy told him.
        Allen stunned, "Wait, wait; we have a possible two cases out
for revenge with a diplomat."
        "What the hell is going on here?" Nick asked in anger.
        "Before we search Mark's place, let's go to the station;
I'll have Bill meet us there and Reese." Allen said.
        "This is getting…" Paul said.
        "I hear you." Allen said.
        "Thanks.  Kathy, anything else?" Nick inquired.
        Kathy inhaled, "She had skin tissue under her fingernails
and he's hurt; I'm guessing an arm, maybe his chest or his penis."
        "Chest and…" Paul said.
        "Here, stand in front of me; if you are on the top; I can
scratch arms, your chest and if I can lower to your happy place."
Kathy said showing them.
        "We'll need a body search warrant." Allen said.
        "Thanks, later darling." Allen said.
        "I'll call you on the rest." Kathy replied.
        They quickly left the lab and stood outside on the sidewalk.
        "Okay, follow me and we'll poke at Mark's place." Allen
instructed.
        "Let's roll," Nick said.
        Nick and Paul climbed into the car; Allen into his truck and
they followed Allen to Mark Ting's home on the lower east side.  They
parked a few feet past the house, turning their engines and lights
off and climbed out meeting at the trunk of the caddy.
        "Okay, gloves gents and have your gun in hand.  Examine
everything in side and out, but stand ready in case he returns."
Allen ordered.
        "Okay," Paul answered.
        "Done," Nick answered.
        "Let's roll; Paul take the back; Nick and I the front."
Allen instructed them.
        They quietly walked towards the house, going where they were
told and scanned everything around them.  Nick slowly turned the
doorknob; it was unlocked, so he slowly pushed the door open with his
gun drawn directly in front of him.  They cautiously entered the
house looking in every corner and behind every door.
        The house was a complete shambles, broken furniture, beer
cans and pizza boxes everywhere and a foul stench in the air.  They
walked towards the back of the house bumping into Paul then noticed a
room at the end of a narrow hallway, and quietly walked, hugging the
walls, towards it.  Nick and Paul to the left; Allen on the right
reaching around and banged on the door with his fist; at first, no
response, but then a woman's voice screamed and they stood in shock.
        "FBI, please exit the room; we're armed." All shouted.
        "I'm not, please don't shoot," she yelled in return.
        "Open the door and come out where we can see you." Allen
ordered.
        "I'm coming out." She said.
        "Paul, call it in and we need a woman officer." Allen told
him.
        "All right," Paul answered.
        The doorknob slowly turned, the door opened with a creek in
the hinge and a young skinny woman stepped out displaying her empty
hands.
        "Please stand by the wall and tell me who you are." Allen
requested.
        "I'm Leanna Wilcox; Mark's ex-girlfriend; I came to get my
stuff and my key." Leanna replied.
        "I'm Allen Straton, FBI; these are Detectives Paul Coletti
and Nick Knight; where's Mark now?" Allen asked.
        "I wish I knew; I haven't heard from him in days." Leanna
answered.
        "What can you tell me about him?" Allen asked.
        "I can't," Leanna uttered, shaking all over.
        They quickly lower their weapons, escorted Leanna into the
living room as the other officer's entered the house, and Reese
approached them.
        "Lisa, stay here with her." Reese ordered.
        "Yes sir." Lisa said.
        "Okay, boys, talk," Reese instructed.
        "We got a report from Kathy that confirms a Diplomat
involved and blood belonging to Mark Ting." Nick briefed.
        "I called Bill, informed him; he's trying to get clearance,
that's Mark's ex-girlfriend; she could be very valuable to us," Allen
told him.
        "Safe house time, let's get her to the station, question her
and get a statement then set it up; Allen, you and Forensics dust
everything; you two, back at the station," Reese ordered.
        "Okay, let's go guys." Allen said.
        "Lisa, you ride in the back with her," Reese said.  "Let's
go boys."
        Allen and the Forensics lab remained behind while the others
left and headed back to the station.  Lisa escorted Leanna to the
interrogation room with Nick; Paul, and Reese close behind him.  They
sat down around the table, Paul took notes and Nick gave her a glass
of water.
        "Okay, Leanna, I'm Detective Knight; we're preparing a safe
house for you in exchange for everything you can tell us about Mark
Ting." Nick explained to her.
        "He will never find me?" Leanna inquired.
        "Never," Nick answered.
        "A few months ago, he was arrested for a bomb threat, he was
going to trial, but then disappeared.  He came to see me a week ago,
saying he was framed, it was this Rick guy because was ratted on by
Mark; something about weapons in France." Leanna explained.
        "You're doing fine, please go on." Nick requested.
        Leanna leaned upon the table, starting to cry, "Two years
ago, Mark and this Rick guy met up at some café in France; they were
at one table and I was at another.  About two hours goes by; we enjoy
France and went home.  Two Feds were waiting at his house, something
about weapons trafficking.  Where I had nothing to do with it they
let me go and he went with them.  I didn't see Mark again until last
week when he was waiting for me outside of my place.  He was
terrified, upset and he had burns on his hands and scratches on his
chest.  I cleaned him up, gave him some money and that was it until
today at his house with you guys," Leanna explained further.
        "Can you tell me what Rick looked like?" Nick said.
        "All I remember is dark hair, blue eyes and a tattoo on his
upper left arm; I think it's a bird of some sort; I couldn't see it
clearly." Leanna told him.
        "Leanna, you did a fantastic job; I will take you to the
safe house; the FBI will set up a new name, address the works for
you," Nick said.  "Lisa, stay with her; guys outside."
        Lisa remained with Leanna while Nick led the way out and
Paul closing the door behind them.  Nick walked down the hall running
into Allen and Bill coming in and entered Allen's office.
        "Are we secure in here?" Nick asked.
        "Yeah, this little room is sound and bullet proof.  That
place was disgusting.  Forensics is still there but we did find a
picture in that mess.  Nick, do you know this man?" Allen queried.
        Nick inhaled in shock, "That's Richard; Molly's ex-boyfriend
from France….  Oh no; no way,"
        "Allen; Leanna told us about the two cases and this one guy
named Rick; do you think," Paul inquired.
        "Maybe, Bill any luck with the office in France?" Allen asked.
        "Nick, do you have her testimony?" Bill asked.
        "Yes, but she's been promised a new life," Nick answered.
        "That may make them open the door, give me an hour and have
a copy of that for me," Bill requested.
        "Yes, sir," Nick answered.
        "Where do we send her until the house is ready?" Allen
inquired.
        "I have the perfect place," Nick said eagerly.
        "Where?" Paul queried.
        "Raven," Nick said.
        "Good, then we'll transport her later." Allen said.  "Take
her there now."
        "Great, Lucien too," Nick replied.
        Nick quickly excited Allen's office and returned to Lisa
with Leanna in the interrogation room.  He opened the door and looked
around him to be safe.
        "Okay, Leanna, listen carefully, take my hand follow me
outside to my car, keep your head down and I'm taking you some place
safe until the safe house is ready." Nick instructed her.
        "Okay," Leanna answered, slightly scared.
        "Thanks Lisa, let's go," Nick said.
        Nick took Leanna by the hand escorting her out of the
building, down the stairs and over to his car.  He opened the
passenger door and she climbed in lying down.  Nick walked around to
his side, climbed in and started the engine.  He quickly backed up
and drove to the Raven parking out front.  He turned the engine off
climbing out and opened the passenger door.  Leanna climbed out
closing the door and walked with Nick into the club.  They walked
down the stairs and over towards the bar.
        Leanna slowly sat down examining her surroundings as LaCroix
entered from the backroom smiling and saw Nick standing at the bar.
        "Nicholas, always a pleasure," LaCroix said happily.
        "Same here, how's Jamie doing?" Nick asked.
        LaCroix chuckled slightly, "Let's see; she threw up once
this morning and she's sleeping at the moment."
        "Oh dear, it'll fade about the second month, that's what
Molly says." Nick told him.
        "Good, who's this?" LaCroix asked.
        "I'm sorry, Leanna Wilcox; my cousin Lucien LaCroix.  We
need a safe haven for her until the safe house is done." Nick said.
        "No problem, are you hungry?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Yes," Leanna whispered scared.
        "All right, follow me and Scott will attend to your needs. 
Nicholas, wait for me." LaCroix requested.
        "Yeah, I'm hungry too, and Molly's on her way here." Nick
replied.
        "All right," LaCroix replied.
        LaCroix escorted Leanna into the backroom with Scott and
explained the situation to him.  As LaCroix returned to Nick; he saw
Molly sneaking up behind Nick and goosed him.  Nick jumped happily,
turning around, kissed her and embraced her tight.
        "Thanks, I needed a thrill." Nick said showing Molly to sit
down.
        "What's up?" Molly asked.
        "Besides me; anyway, you are staying here with Lucien and
Jamie until I say it's safe." Nick strongly recommended.
        "Why?" Molly asked slightly scared.
        "It seems Richard is involved and he may use you to his
advantage." Nick replied.
        "How?" Molly inquired.
        "Sadly, I can't tell you, but you need to trust me and do as
I ask, please," Nick requested.
        "Always," Molly said.
        "Love you, well it seems Jamie has morning sickness," Nick
suggested.
        "All right; I'll stay with her, but tell me when you can."
Molly replied.
        "Everything; I promise, go on; I'll see you at the loft."
Nick said, kissing her passionately.
        "Definitely," Molly said stroking his backside leaving to
join Jamie in the small room.
        Nick grinned, blushing from Molly's sexual gesture.
        "Nicholas, when you stop blushing, tell me what you can;
what's going on?" LaCroix said teasing him.
        "We're onto a huge case; FBI involved and now this Richard
may be the leader." Nick said.
        "I see," LaCroix replied stunned.
        "I want Molly to stay with you and Jamie.  Allen will pick
up Leanna in a few hours." Nick told him.
        "We'll be at my loft, and Scott will be here watching
Leanna." LaCroix replied.
        "Do you have," Nick started to say when his cell phone rang,
"Knight,"
        "Sorry, Bud; we have another one, be outside waiting and
follow me." Allen said.
        "Done," Nick replied hanging up.  "Damn,"
        "What is it?" LaCroix asked.
        "Another one," Nick answered sighing.
        "What did you want before the phone rang?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Oh, do you have any fruit?" Nick asked.
        "Here's an apple," LaCroix said handing it to him.
        "Thanks, later," Nick said.
        Nick bit the apple walking up the stairs and outside.  He
climbed into his car, started the engine and waited for his friends.
        LaCroix strolled into the backroom, up the few steps and
into his old room.  He saw the women sitting on the couch sipping tea
and laughing.  He quietly approached them kissing Jamie's head and
leaned upon the couch.
        "Hello ladies, how do you feel Jamie?" LaCroix asked.
        "Better; I still can't believe I'm pregnant." Jamie said.
        "Tomorrow morning, Doctor Mason," LaCroix said firmly.
        "Okay, Molly told me, she and Nick are trying." Jamie replied.
        "I know; I'm thrilled and hoping for the best." LaCroix
expressed warmly.
        "Thanks, Lucien, where's Nick?" Molly inquired.
        "Working," LaCroix answered.  "Time to go home ladies;
Molly, you are to stay with us.  You can keep Jamie company while I
cook; I'm sure Nicholas will be starving by the time he's done. 
Scott placed clothes in the spare bedroom for you and him." 
        "Let's go," Molly said.
        "I'll leave the car for Scott where he's watching the young
lady; we'll take the van, keys please." LaCroix requested.
        "But…" Molly tried to argue.
        "Keys please," LaCroix requested firmer.
        Molly handed him the keys and sighed.
        "Thank you," LaCroix whispered.
        LaCroix escorted the women out of the room and out of the
club.  They exited through the back door climbing into the van and
LaCroix started the engine.  He carefully backed up driving to the
loft and parked near the elevator.  He turned the engine off; they
climbed out and rode up to the second floor.  They stepped into the
living room, the ladies sat down on the couch and LaCroix excused
himself to make some hot tea.  A few moments passed; he served the
tea and headed for the bathroom.  He stood by the toilet unzipping
his fly and pulled out his penis.  He urinated, put him back zipping
up and flushed.  He moved slightly washing his hands and exited the
bathroom; joined the women at the couch.
        "Preference for dinner?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Chicken," Jamie said.
        "Sounds good; need some help?" Molly queried.
        LaCroix exhaled, "No, relax; Nick will be here later and
he'll need you."
        "Another one," Molly inquired.
        "A body yes, rape; I don't know." LaCroix answered.
        "Poor Nick," Molly whimpered.
        "He has you to come home to." LaCroix said.
        "He has us Lucien," Molly said.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "True, but…"
        "I know," Molly replied.
        "I'll start dinner, rest easy," LaCroix said walking away.
        The women enjoyed slumbering on the couch and LaCroix
prepared a hot meal for them.
        ****
        Across the city near the docks, cruisers with flashing blue
lights, yellow tape and men examining the crime scene.  Nick and Paul
saw Kathy, with Allen at her side; they approached her and waited.
        "Hey, guys; sorry to say another agent, but this one is real
nasty." Kathy said, bluntly.
        "How bad?" Paul inquired.
        "Well, he was shot, stabbed, burned, sliced, etc.," Kathy
said sadly.
        "Okay, enough, got gloves," Allen said.
        "There's a box of them on the gurney; I'll be here when
you're done.  Nick, I heard about Lucien and Jamie, that's
fantastic." Kathy replied.
        "Thanks, let's go, guys," Nick suggested.
        They each exhaled hard walking towards the box and each
removed a pair of latex gloves.  They snapped them on, Allen took
notes and Nick went one side; Paul the other.
        "Oh my God; he's pissed." Paul said.
        "You think?  Let's start," Nick said frustrated.
        "I know him guys; his name was Hayden Bovill; he was the
agent two months and a year ago." Allen told them.
        "Great," Paul sighed.  "Nick, over here, left ear, a needle
hole and silver balls."
        "Got it," Allen said.
        "Allen, I've got a tie clip with two initials on it," Nick
briefed him.
        "They are," Allen questioned.
        "R L," Nick answered.
        "Rick," Paul mumbled.
        "Yeah," Nick said sighing.
        Nick and Paul made their way back towards Allen, removing
their gloves and joined Kathy at Reese's side.
        "Well guys," Reese inquired.
        "The same, mercury plus the slaughter, also I found this tie
clip with RL on it." Nick said.
        "That Rick guy," Reese replied.
        "Richard LeBleu; Diplomat of France," Nick quoted.
        Reese exhaled, "You know this guy?"
        "Yes, Molly's ex-boyfriend before me; he's also a woman
beater," Nick told him.
        "Great," Reese said exhaling, slightly yelling.
        "Excuse me, Cap, this came over the radio," Jack said giving
him a note.
        "Thanks, Jack," Reese said reading it.  "Okay guys; it's the
address for the drug store that sold the needles to Mark or Rick."
        "Let's roll," Nick said.
        They ran towards Nick's car, but stopped and Paul grabbed
Allen's arm.
        "Nick, Allen and I can handle, you don't look to good and
you're celebrating their baby; go home." Paul said.
        "Paul," Nick replied.
        "Bye, Nick," Allen said.
        "I owe you," Nick said.
        "Yo, Nick, water and bread; it will settle the stomach."
Allen recommended.
        "Okay," Nick mumbled.
        They went their separate ways, Nick driving home and parked
near the elevator.  He saw LaCroix waiting for him and climbed out,
but LaCroix noticed how white he was.
        "Nicholas, what is it?" LaCroix asked.
        "Bad scene," Nick said moaning.
        "Are you all right?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Not sure," Nick said rubbing his stomach.
        "Come on," LaCroix said placing his hand upon his upper back.
        Nick moaned in pain, "Lucien,"
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said concerned.
        Suddenly, Nick turned away facing a bush and threw up behind
it.  LaCroix stood close by to help and comfort him.  A few minutes
passed; he stood up reaching for his hanky and covered his mouth.
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix inquired concerned.
        "I'm a little better, let's go; I need some water." Nick said.
        "Come on, go easy," LaCroix said.
        They stepped into the elevator riding up to LaCroix's loft
and stepped out into the living room; into Molly's loving arms
waiting for him.  LaCroix lightly rubbed his back leaving them alone
and joined Jamie in the kitchen.
        "Honey, what happened?" Molly asked.
        "A bad crime scene, that's all," Nick said.
        "Are you all right?" Molly inquired, scared.
        "I'm not sure, stomach still tight," Nick said.
        Molly hesitated, "Try going; when the last time you did was?"
        "True, okay; I just don't want to throw up again." Nick
replied.
        "Need any help?" Molly seductively whispered.
        Nick smiled, kissing her, "I'll call you, stay close."
        "I'll be right outside the door," Molly told him.
        "Oh boy," Nick said moaning.
        They walked towards the bathroom; Molly waited outside while
Nick went in and stood by the toilet.  He unzipped, urinated and
fixed his pants.  He flushed and moved towards the sink washing his
hands.
        Molly snuck in wrapping her arms around his waist and
squeezed him tight.
        Nick gasped from her grip turning around to face her loving
eyes.
        "How do you feel now?" Molly inquired.
        "Better, thank you," Nick exhaled in relief.
        Molly smiled, getting as close as possible, "I'm glad.  I'll
give you the full treatment later, but Lucien cooked a wonderful
dinner, let's go." Molly replied.
        "Lucien cooked," Nick replied in shock.
        "Stop it, come on," Molly said laughing a little.
        Molly took him by the hand and escorted Nick to the table
sitting down.  They spent about an hour or so enjoying a hot meal and
warm conversation.  They cleared off the table, filled up the
dishwasher and retired to their own bedrooms.  Molly noticed Nick was
distant; she approached him and looked deep into his blue eyes.  She
saw the pain and horror; lightly touched him and he looked into her
comforting smile.
        "Nick, what is it?" Molly asked.
        "Molly, I…" Nick started.
        "Nick, it's eating you; you can't relax until you let it go,
tell me, please," Molly pleaded.
        "Molly," Nick mumbled sadly.  "Richard's part of the case
I'm working on; so far three are dead."
        "My God," Molly said, feeling numb.
        "That's why you need to lay low," Nick told her.
        "I promise; I will," Molly said.  "What can I do for you
first?"
        "One guess, but I need a shower first," Nick said.
        Molly smiled wide, "Let's start there,"
        "Lead on," Nick said.
        Molly firmly took hold of his belt and pulled him into the
bathroom; of course, he went willingly.  Molly quickly stripped down
and helped Nick out of his clothes and she started the shower.  They
slowly stepped in closing the door and they kissed each other
passionately.  The heat of the water intensified their passion and
they made love.
        LaCroix and Jamie made themselves comfortable lying down on
the bed, but LaCroix rolled over gently touching her belly and sat
up.  Jamie sat up placing her hand on his thigh smiling.
        "What is it?" Jamie asked.
        "It's still hard to believe," LaCroix replied.
        "It's true," Jamie told him.
        LaCroix smiled, "I know, but it broke a few days ago; do you
remember our wedding night,"
        Jamie grinning, "Oh yeah, uh-oh, we forgot to use them."
Jamie said laughing.
        "Yes," LaCroix expressed shyly.
        "OOPS," Jamie said.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "Yes," Jamie said, moving her hand to his crotch and felt
his hardness.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "It's okay, really," Jamie seductively said.
        They kissed each other affectionately; Jamie lay back as
LaCroix slowly but gently followed her kissing her stomach; her
raised hard nipples and then her moist lips.  She slowly rubbed his
back with one hand and the other caressing his hardness.  Their
breathing became erratic and heavy.  LaCroix slowly penetrated her;
Jamie moaned slightly from his heat.  He slowly moved in then out,
cautiously because of her condition and Jamie moved with him. 
LaCroix moaned, 'Jamie, I'm…' breathing hard. 'Please, now,' Jamie
spoke feeling her heat intensifying.  He moved slightly faster, his
essence emerged deep inside of her; he moved once more and lay along
side of her.  She held onto him tight, and exhaled with a slight moan.
        "Jamie, you all right?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Yes, still hot; that was…" Jamie said winded.
        "I agree," LaCroix said smiling.
        They lied there enjoying their climax, holding each other
and drifted off to sleep.
        ****
        The night hours quickly rolled into daylight, Nick's alarm
sounded reaching over and turned it off.  He saw Molly still sound
asleep with a glowing smile and he carefully crawled out of bed.  He
quietly walked into the bathroom closing the door and stripped down. 
He used the toilet then stepped into the shower and got cleaned up. 
He turned the water off stepping out and dried off.  He exited the
bathroom and walked over to the dresser removing clean clothes
getting dressed.  He walked out of the bedroom closing the door and
bumped into LaCroix in the hallway.  They strolled down the stairs
into the kitchen and made some coffee.  They sat down at the table
and enjoyed their coffee alone; for the moment.
        "I needed that," Nick said.
        "Same here, what's up for today?" LaCroix asked.
        "Good phrase, work and more work." Nick said.  "You,"
        LaCroix smiled, "Take Jamie to Doctor Mason and pick up my
truck with guards in tow."
        "Good, call me if needed." Nick said.
        "Jamie and I realized we forgot to use them, at least one
night, on the honeymoon." LaCroix told Nick.
        "Naughty boy, but still thrilled for you." Nick said beaming.
        "Thank you; you're next," LaCroix said.
        "We'll see, time will tell us," Nick replied.
        Suddenly, a knock echoed from the door; LaCroix yelled,
'come in,' and Paul with Allen in tow walked in and sat down with
them enjoying some coffee.
        "Hey guys," Paul said.
        "Hey," Nick whispered.
        "Hello," LaCroix replied.
        Molly came walking down the stairs, "Lucien, Jamie needs you
in the bathroom."
        "Oh dear," LaCroix said running to her.
        "Ah---a baby," Allen replied.
        "Poor Jamie," Nick said.
        "I'll make some breakfast." Molly said kissing Nick. 
"You'll be next."
        "I know," Nick smiled.
        "What?" Paul asked, surprised.
        "We're planning and working on it." Nick replied.
        "I thought you wanted to wait awhile?" Paul queried.
        Nick laughed, "We did,"
        Suddenly, Allen's cell phone rang; he pulled it out from his
pocket, "Straton,"
        "Straton, long time," Richard said.
        Allen waved his hand for silence, "Rick, what do you want?"
        "Revenge, I thought you knew that.  You and the Feds cost me
millions," Richard replied.
        "You're going down man, make it easy on you, turn yourself
in," Allen said.
        "You can't touch me, remember," Richard reminded him.
        "I wouldn't bet on that; you may lose," Allen told him.
        "I will have my revenge on you and my precious Molly too."
Richard said hanging up.
        "Rick, damn it," Allen replied.
        Molly heard his name mentioned dropping a glass in the sink.
         Nick ran to her side embracing her, Paul and Allen joined
them.
        "It's all right, honey; no one will ever hurt you." Nick
said slightly shaking.
        LaCroix joined them, "What happened?"
        "How's Jamie?" Allen inquired.
        "Resting, Nicholas," LaCroix demanded.
        "Molly, go check on Jamie; I'll eat out," Nick said.
        "But…" Molly said, slightly upset.
        "Shh, go on, love you tons." Nick said.
        "All right, love you tons." Molly replied leaving the kitchen.
        LaCroix exhaled frustrated, "Nicholas,"
        "Allen, what did Richard say exactly?" Nick asked.
        "What?" LaCroix whispered asking.
        Allen exhaled to calm his anger, "Basically, he threatened
me and Molly."
        "No," Nick said.
        "Cool down, I read that year old case; I was the one who
testified against him." Allen briefed them.  "Leanna is safely gone."
        "Good, you need safe haven next." Paul said.
        "I don't…" Allen began to speak.
        "Watch Molly for me, with Lucien; he's busy where Jamie's
pregnant," Nick said.
        "Nick," Allen replied.
        "Please," Nick said.  "Think about Kathy,"
        Allen sighed in frustration, "I guess,"
        "Thanks, Paul let's roll.  First, give me five with Molly,"
Nick requested.
        "Okay," Paul said.
        Nick quietly left to see Molly, but Paul stood closer to
LaCroix, "I'll watch Nick, but you two stay very close to Molly."
        "The only thing we need to do today is take Jamie to the
doctor's, and pick up my truck then home.  I'll have Scott come by
later; close the club tonight." LaCroix said.
        "Okay, that ought to be fun." Allen said.
        "I'm back, let's roll; Lucien," Nick said.
        "Don't worry; she'll be fine." LaCroix replied.
        Nick and Paul quickly left the loft riding down in the
elevator and outside to the car.  They quickly climbed in; Nick
started the engine and drove down the alley heading for the station. 
Nick parked out front turning the engine off and they ran up the
stairs inside.  They saw Reese and Bill waiting for them at Nick's
desk and not looking happy.
        "Hello," Paul said in slight fear.
        "Where's Allen?" Bill asked directly.
        "Safe house," Nick answered.
        Reese exhaled, "Allen's office, now,"
        Reese led them to Allen's office slamming the door shut. 
Nick and Paul glanced at each other like two kids who caught in the
candy jar and Reese faced them letting Bill take the lead.
        "Why?" Bill demanded.
        "He and Paul came to my cousin's loft, while there Rick
called and threatened Allen and my wife Molly." Nick briefed him.
        "Go on," Bill recommended.
        "He and Molly are with two guards, Lucien and Scott." Nick
answered.
        "This case is nuts." Paul said.
        Nick leaned his backside on the desk, "Richard's involved
and so is Mark Ting, but we found a tie clip with RL and the DNA says
classified-diplomat, but nothing with Mark's prints, but a small
blood sample on Carmen."
        "True," Paul said hesitating.  "Are you thinking, maybe?"
        "Yeah," Nick said.
        "Guys, enlighten us." Reese requested.
        "We have mercury poisoning, two men dead, also one was
beaten, and Carmen raped and killed all with Rick's DNA, but nothing
to tie Mark.  The case a year ago and two months ago have Mark's name
but not Rick's." Nick replied.
        "Rick's the guy and Mark's the fall guy." Reese suggested.
        "Possibly," Nick said.
        "With Diplomatic Immunity; he can't be touched." Paul said.
        "We can if we have solid proof." Bill replied.
        "Can't be more solid then leaving your DNA in a rape case,"
Nick said.
        "True, but if we can put him with murder, the two would
destroy him permanently," Bill said.
        "What if we make a deal with Mark to testify against him,
give him what you gave Leanna," Paul suggested.
        "We could bring him down big time," Nick said.
        "But, to find him is…" Reese replied.
        Nick sighed, "True,"
        "Ask Leanna before she disappears completely." Paul
suggested.  "Any place to find or look for him."
        "I'm on it," Bill said sitting at Allen's desk dialing the
phone.
        "Do you think Mark is being used?" Reese questioned.
        "He's not big enough on the chain to commit murder against
the FBI…if anything small stuff." Nick answered.
        "I heard about Jamie, how she doing?" Reese inquired.
        "Well, she's got morning sickness and sleeps a lot." Nick
replied smiling.
        "What about you and Molly?" Reese queried.
        "Well," Nick mumbled.
        "Best way, just play and relax," Reese suggested.
        "Oh yeah," Nick answered shyly.
        Bill hung up the phone, stood up walking back to Reese and
the others, and sighed.
        "What you got?" Reese asked.
        "Well, she gave two places; the docks and the bar called
Hank's." Bill told them.
        "Okay, let's head over to Hayden's home then the Raven for
lunch and check on the patient." Nick replied.
        "Lead on." Paul said, extending his arm.
        "Keep me posted." Reese ordered.
        "Yes, Cap." Paul replied.
        Nick and Paul left Allen's office walking out of the
building, down the stairs and over to the car climbing in.  Nick
started the engine backing up and drove to the west side of the city;
to Hayden's home.  He spotted the driveway driving in and parked the
car.  He turned the engine off; they climbed out and walked up the
path to the front door.  Paul rang the doorbell, and they patiently
waited.
        A tired woman appeared at the door holding tissues to her
red eyes, of endless crying from her loss of her husband, and looked
at Paul.
        "Yes," she cried.
        "I'm Detective Paul Coletti, and my partner Detective Nick
Knight; may we come in for a moment?" Paul inquired.
        "I'm Patty, come in," Patty said softly.
        Patty opened the door for them and she escorted them into
the living room.  She sat down on the couch with Paul at her side and
Nick stood at her side.
        "Patty; we very sorry for your loss, but we need to know if
he kept records of any kind?" Paul inquired.
        Patty sniffed her tears back, "At the computer behind you."
        "Is it all right if I look?" Nick asked.
        "Yes," Patty answered.
        Nick walked over towards the computer searching every paper
and CD while Paul tried to comfort Patty.  He opened a small drawer
and inside he found a set of CD's in a plastic case label, 'DIP.'  He
pulled out his hanky from his back pocket and removed then examined
them closely.  Nick wrapped them safely and returned to Paul.
        "Excuse me, Patty, did Hayden have any clients here?" Nick
asked.
        "A few; I don't remember their names off hand." Patty
answered.
        "Richard," Nick uttered.
        "Possibly," Patty replied hesitating.
        "How about Mark Ting?" Paul queried.
        Patty hesitated, "That's ringing a bell, but no picture of
him, sorry."
        "That's all right, thank you for your help; may we take the
CD's with us?" Nick asked.
        "Yes," Patty replied.
        "We'll let ourselves out; we're sorry for your loss." Paul
said.
        Nick led the way out of the house with Paul closing the door
and they climbed into the car hesitating a few; mainly Nick.
        "Yo, Nick," Paul replied.
        "Sorry, this is amazing," Nick said.
        "What?" Paul asked stunned by his words.
        "What I mean is; here we have a Diplomat committing these
crimes and Mark being the fall guy but no where in sight; he's either
hiding or dead.  Molly's in the picture because of his past and
Allen, because he was a replacement.  Leanna said Hank's bar was
Mark's hang out and it's getting late, and I'm…" Nick explained
frustrated.
        "How about I go to Hank's as a customer and nose around; you
go see the family." Paul suggested.
        "And Lucien's picking up his truck." Nick told him.
        "A truck, cool." Paul replied.
        "Drive-in movies tonight," Nick said grinning.
        "Odd, Carla and I going tonight as well," Paul said.
        "Cool; I'll get the bus home from your place, grab the truck
and roll.  Have fun." Paul said.
        "I will, you too," Nick said laughing.  "Let's get going."
        Nick started the engine backing up and quickly drove home
parking next to the elevator.  He turned the engine off; they climbed
out and stood by the trunk.
        "Make sure you do the paperwork and tell me in the morning."
Nick requested.
        "Done; I'll look for you," Paul said.
        "Cool, if you can't see me, I'm busy, later." Nick said
hugging him.
        Paul shook his head laughing, returning the hug, and walked
away crossing the street then rode the bus to his place.  Nick
inhaled them exhaled walked into the elevator and rode up to
LaCroix's loft.  The doors slowly opened; he stepped out as the door
closed automatically and placed his things onto the table behind the
couch.  Nick looked around and saw no one.  The door opened then
closed behind him and Molly ran into Nick's arms squeezing him tight.
        "Hi, I needed that; hey guys, where were you?" Nick asked.
        "The Doctors," LaCroix answered.
        "And?" Nick inquired.
        LaCroix laughed, "Jamie's about eight weeks along."
        Nick surprised, "Eight,"
        "Honeymoon, wedding night baby," Jamie replied.
        "Lucien," Nick said.
        "Well," LaCroix replied.  "I still need my truck."
        "Ah---I'm hungry, time for lunch; pick it up and movie
night." Nick said.
        "Really?" Molly inquired.
        "Yes, but I need to clean up first." Nick replied.
        "I'll help you," Molly said happily.
        "I'm sure you will," Nick said grinning.
        "I'll make a light lunch." LaCroix said.  "And…"
        "Oh Lucien, I don't feel so good," Jamie said covering her
mouth.
        "Excuse us," LaCroix said.
        LaCroix took Jamie to the spare bathroom while Nick and
Molly walked upstairs to their bedroom and closed the door.  Molly
saw Nick standing at the bedpost; not moving.
        "Nick, honey, what is it?" Molly asked.
        "Are ready for the sickness and…" Nick said hesitating.
        Molly laughed slightly, "Oh honey, not every woman has
morning sickness, but if I do, knowing it's because OUR baby is
growing in my body, no problem."
        "I'll be there," Nick said.
        Molly licked her lips with her tongue unbuckling his belt,
unzipped his fly and she placed her hand on his penis giving him a
love squeeze.  Nick kissed her passionately and moaning from her
grip.  She held on walking him into the bathroom and they made love
in the shower.
        Downstairs, just outside of the bathroom door, they were
resting on the stairs and LaCroix held Jamie until she felt relaxed. 
He sighed loudly rubbing her back and she moved her head looking into
his worried eyes.
        "You okay," Jamie inquired.
        "No," LaCroix said sadly.  "I feel terrible that you must be
sick, uncomfortable, pain in the end and all I can do is watch."
        "You're helping me by being here; you're the father; a true
Daddy and you are pregnant in a different way." Jamie said.
        "Where?" LaCroix asked.
        "I'll show you in the truck." Jamie told him.
        "Uh-oh," LaCroix whispered.
        "Oh yeah," Jamie said.
        LaCroix carefully leaned backwards as Jamie began to massage
and stroke him.  He felt his arousal become overwhelming, out of
control, heat rising.  Nick and Molly approached seeing them and
laughed.
        "Trying for twins," Nick said.
        "Maybe," LaCroix replied.
        "Lucien," Jamie said stunned.
        Molly whispered, "Okay, boys, movies and play time; alone."
        "Deal, let's go." LaCroix said.
        They quickly exited the loft riding down to the van; LaCroix
and Jamie climbed into the back and Nick and Molly up front.  Nick
started the engine backing up and quickly drove to the car lot where
LaCroix's truck was.  Nick pulled up along side and the men exited
the van.
        "Lucien, you okay," Nick inquired.
        "Well," LaCroix mumbled.
        "I know that pain well, let's get the truck." Nick said.
        They entered the building, spent about thirty minutes or so
signing papers and talking to the salesman.  They exited the building
walking around to the right side of the building and there sat
LaCroix's truck.
        "What do you think?" LaCroix asked.
        "Great, and," Nick replied.
        "Ford Explorer, five doors, all the luxuries and spanking
new." LaCroix described proudly.
        "Love it, let's go; I'm getting that same pain now." Nick
said eagerly.
        LaCroix and Nick climbed inside, LaCroix started the engine
and they rode towards the van.  Nick climbed out and helped Jamie in.
Nick climbed back into the van and followed LaCroix to the Drive-in
movies.  They parked side-by-side and set their radios to the movie. 
About five minutes later; they crawled to the back of their vehicles
stretching out, and relax.
        "Hi," Nick said.
        "Hi," Molly replied.  "How do you feel?"
        "Overwhelmingly content," Nick said proudly.
        "Whoa, so I do," Molly agreed.  "What's wrong?"
        "One guess," Nick whispered.
        "Let's see; the doctor is in," Molly said laughing.
        "Oh, well, Doc it really hurts," Nick said grinning.
        Nick lay down on his back as Molly slowly unbuckled,
unzipped and helped him move his pants slightly down exposing his
full erection.  Molly slowly touched, stroked and massaged his
hardness then massaged his testicles.  She felt his heat rising,
breathing erratic and slightly shaking.
        "My, my, what can I do about this?" Molly inquired.
        "Keep doing that and your answer will soon be here," Nick
said breathing hard.  "Molly,"
        Molly stopped, stripped down and straddled over him allowing
him deep inside.
        "Molly, please---ah---ah," Nick moaned.
        "Easy darling," Molly whispered.
        Molly rocked him with a tight hold, Nick held her waist and
he moved with her.  Suddenly, his essence exploded deep inside with
intense heat, his body shook hard and Molly moaned slightly.
        "Ah---ah---Molly, I'm sorry," Nick apologized winded.
        "It's okay, I loved it." Molly said.
        "I just, I just couldn't…" Nick replied moaning.
        "Just relax, lay back," Molly replied.  "Love you."
        "Love you too," Nick said. "More,"
        "Are you sure?" Molly inquired.
        "Yeah, my turn," Nick told her grinning.
        "Oh yeah," Molly said.
        They enjoyed their private time together making love and
caressing each other.
        LaCroix and Jamie made themselves comfortable in the back
lying on some blankets and a few pillows scattered around them. 
Jamie saw LaCroix a little uneasy and touched his thigh.
        "What is it?" Jamie asked.
        "How do you feel?" LaCroix asked.
        Jamie sat up unbuckling his belt, unzipping and lowered his
pants, "Very, very, hot,"
        "Same here," LaCroix whispered.
        "How long have you been like hard?" Jamie inquired stroking
him.
        "Too long," LaCroix moaned.
        Jamie turned onto her side showing him a new position from
behind and LaCroix naturally complied.  He slowly moved as she tried
to stroke him at the same time, 'Lucien,' she whispered.  He felt his
heat rising, she got a tighter hold, 'Jamie, I…' LaCroix said. 
'Lucien, please, it's hot,' Jamie replied.  He moved faster and
deeper, 'Jamie, I'm…' LaCroix said as he felt his essence emerge deep
inside.  LaCroix moaned Jamie's name as Jamie whispered his.
        "You okay, the baby," LaCroix inquired.
        "Honey, you can't hurt the baby, I'm fine." Jamie said.
        "That was overwhelming," LaCroix said.
        "Yes it was," Jamie said lying back to face him.
        "Love you," LaCroix said.
        "Love you too, darling," Jamie replied.  "But the last month
and six weeks after the baby's born we can't have intercourse, but I
can take care of you."
        "I know," LaCroix said.
        "Boy or Girl?" Jamie inquired.
        "It doesn't matter," LaCroix said.
        Jamie smiled, "You're sweet,"
        They lied there enjoying their climax and baby talk until
the movie ended.  Suddenly, LaCroix heard a knock on his door and
opened it.  Nick stood there with Molly and saw them lying down.
        "Yes," LaCroix inquired.
        "We're making a bathroom run, care to join us or wait here?"
Nick queried.
        "We'll go," Jamie answered quickly.
        LaCroix laughed, "All right,"
        They climbed out from the back of the truck and followed
them to the restrooms.  The ladies went right and the men walked
left.  They chose a stall, faced the toilet and a few moments later,
a flush.  They exited the stalls, washed their hands and stood
outside waiting for their ladies, but Nick noticed a glowing smirk on
LaCroix's face.
        "Hey, outside of rocking the truck, what's the smirk for?"
Nick asked.
        "That and a question Jamie asked me; I thought I would never
hear." LaCroix answered.
        "That was?" Nick inquired.
        "Boy or girl," LaCroix chuckled in return.
        Nick laughed, "I can understand that, sometimes it still
feels like a dream,"
        "Same here," LaCroix said.
        "What's a dream?" Jamie asked.
        "All three of you," LaCroix said.
        "Agreed," Nick said.
        "Let's head home," LaCroix suggested.
        They returned to their own vehicle and drove slowly home. 
They rode up to the second floor and stepped into the living room. 
They climbed the stairs up to their own bedroom and retired for the
night.
        ****
        Down by the docks along the edge of the frozen waterfront, a
gentleman was pacing back and forth waiting for someone then another
gentleman appeared.  He was over dressed for the waterfront, wearing
a tux and cleared his throat to draw his attention.
        "Been a long time, Chester," Richard said.
        "Rick, what the hell do you want?" Chester asked.
        "You dead," Richard replied grinning.
        "You took Arthur and Hayden, why?" Chester questioned,
terrified.
        Richard approached him slipping black gloves onto his hands
and pulled a needle out from his pocket, "You and your buddies cost
me billions; I intend to remove you as you removed me."
        "Don't do this; I won't say anything; I swear." Chester
pleaded for his life.
        Mark snuck up and shot a dart into his neck and Chester fell
to the sand like a stone.  Richard stepped up and stabbed the needle
behind his left ear then Richard stood up facing Mark.
        "Good work," Richard said.
        "Please, no more, let me go," Mark said, slightly crying.
        "Sure, here you go," Richard said showing him a white
envelope from his other pocket.
        As Mark walked towards him, Richard reached into his belt
pulling out his gun and quickly shot Mark in the heart then his head.
He dropped the gun by Chester's body and vanished into the darkness.
        ****
        The night hours slowly passed into early morning, sun shined
through the blinds lighting up Nick and Molly's room.  Suddenly,
Nick's cell phone rang waking Molly; she stretched over his body and
grabbed the phone.
        "Hello?" Molly whispered.
        "Hey, Molly, I need Nick," Paul said.
        "Hi Paul, hold on," Molly said sitting up.  "Nick, honey,
wake up, Nick,"
        "What's wrong?  What?" Nick asked, half asleep.
        "It's Paul, here," Molly said.
        "Thanks," Nick said sitting up stretching.  "It better be
good."
        "Sadly; we have a double on the beach." Paul told him.
        "Damn," Nick sighed.
        Molly came out of the bathroom seeing him with his head
hanging low, "Nick,"
        "All right; I'll be ready, later." Nick said hanging up and
dropped the phone onto the bed.
        Molly walked over sitting by his side, "Nick, what happened?"
        "A double on the beach," Nick told her.
        "Oh honey; I'm sorry, come on, let's shower and I'll rub you
down before work." Molly said.
        "Okay," Nick replied.  "I need it first,"
        "Come on," Molly replied.
        Nick followed Molly to the bathroom, she pulled the door and
he stripped down.  He stood by the toilet urinating then flushed and
opened the door for Molly to enter.  They stepped in and enjoyed the
shower while Nick got completely rubbed down.
        In LaCroix and Jamie's room, they woke up lying next to each
other and cuddled.
        "Morning," Jamie said.
        "Morning, Love," LaCroix said.  "That was an interesting
night."
        "Yes it was," Jamie replied.  "Uh-oh,"
        "Oh dear," LaCroix replied.
        LaCroix followed Jamie into the bathroom as she threw up and
LaCroix got her a cold towel.  They sat along the edge of the tub;
Jamie wiped her face while LaCroix rubbed and massaged her back
comforting her.  LaCroix heard a knock on the door, 'come in,' he
yelled and Nick entered the room, but no LaCroix.
        "Lucien," Nick shouted.
        "Bathroom," LaCroix answered.
        Nick slowly walked over leaning in the doorway and saw them,
"Uh-oh,"
        "Something wrong?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Molly's downstairs; I got to go, a double on the beach."
Nick briefed him.
        "All right, becareful," LaCroix said.
        Jamie moaned, "Lucien,"
        "It's all right; we'll talk later." LaCroix said sitting
behind Jamie throwing up.
        "Deal," Nick said walking away.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said, but no reply.
        Nick walked down the stairs through the kitchen and joined
Molly at the table with hot coffee.  She noticed his silence and
lightly stroked his soft cheek smiling.
        "Nick," Molly whispered.
        "Sorry, honey; I was telling Lucien you were down here and I
had to go; Jamie was…" Nick told her.
        "Poor Jamie, it should end it another week," Molly said.
        "I know, but…" Nick replied.
        "Just think, when this phase ends; she'll eat weird foods,
gain weight then cry a lot and scream at Lucien saying it's his
entire fault." Molly said laughing.
        "What?" Nick asked surprised.
        "Yeah, that's pregnancy," Molly said.
        "Weird foods," LaCroix inquired, escorting Jamie to the
table sitting down.
        Molly laughed looking towards Jamie, "Pickles and ice cream,"
        "Whoa, gross," Nick said cringing.
        LaCroix shook his head, "Oh, that's…"
        "Having a baby," Molly said laughing still.
        "What you guys doing today?" Nick asked, changing the subject.
        "Jamie, needs new clothes," LaCroix said.
        "Really?" Nick replied.
        "Yeah, I have a small belly, come here." Jamie requested.
        Jamie stood up as Nick walked around and stood by her
glancing at Molly.  She lifted her shirt and moved her pants slightly
down.  Jamie took Nick's hand and placed it on her lower belly.  He
felt her belly; a little warm but firm.
        "Wow, that's…" Nick whispered.
        "Well worth it," Jamie said smiling.
        "Yes it is, thank you," Nick said.
        LaCroix stood up sensing Nick's hesitation, "Ladies, let's
eat out, go and get ready.  Nicholas, come with me."
        "Okay, Molly," Nick said embracing her tight, "Love you."
        "Love you too, lunch time," Molly suggested.
        "I'll try," Nick answered.
        "All right, becareful and call me," Molly requested.
        "Okay," Nick said kissing her passionately.
        Molly returned the kiss squeezing his but and met Jamie by
the door.  LaCroix pulled Nick aside and placed his hand upon Nick's
upper back.
        "Nicholas, I know how you feel seeing Jamie this way;
fearful for Molly, but knowing we share it together, knowing it's
because of a life you helped create from your love for each other;
it's truly amazing.  Remember our quote," LaCroix expressed warmly.
        "I know; I will; 'Love, above all, Faith.'" Nick said smiling.
        "All right; I'm sure there outside; if the case becomes
unbearable; talk to them or call us, all right." LaCroix said firmly.
        "I will, come on," Nick said.
        Nick and LaCroix escorted the ladies out of the loft riding
down in the elevator and outside.  They walked over to the truck then
saw Paul and Allen approaching and waited for them.
        "Molly, do you have your card?" Nick asked.
        "Yes, what do you need?" Molly inquired.
        Nick smiled, "Underwear and lounge pants then surprise me,"
        "Okay, 38 right?" Molly questioned.
        "Yeah, guys, stay close to them." Nick ordered the guards.
        "Yes sir." The guards answered.
        "Hey Paul, let's roll; Allen," Nick replied.
        "I'm going too," Allen insisted.
        Nick rolled his eyes; Paul and Nick climbed into the car
while Allen got back into his truck starting the engines and quickly
drove to the docks where the bodies were discovered.  They pulled up
along the curb, turned the engines off and climbed out.  They met up
at the hood of the caddy and saw Kathy standing at the walkway with
Reese.  They exhaled walking towards them, feeling the anger and
frustration.
        "Hello, what's the scoop?" Paul asked.
        "We have two dead men, one mercury poisoning and the other
shot execution style." Reese told them.
        "Names yet?" Nick inquired.
        "We just got here, you tell us." Reese ordered.
        "There are gloves on the way in on the gurney." Kathy said.
        "Okay, let's go guys; Allen, notes." Nick said.
        Nick led the way putting his gloves on and strolled down to
the body; stood in shock and horror.
        "Damn it; Chester Salmi," Allen whispered.
        "And Mark Ting," Paul added.
        "Richard's out of control and alone," Nick said.
        "Theories," Paul requested.
        Allen exhaled, "He helped Rick with Chester then killed Mark."
        "Why?" Nick asked.
        "Got in the way," Paul replied.
        "Maybe, let's look around." Nick suggested.
        Nick took Mark's body while Paul examined Chester's and
Allen took notes.  Allen stood by Nick watching him and remembering
his friendship with Chester.
        "Nick," Allen said.
        "Well, we have a gun, planted, it's a 45 magnum; he was
poisoned the same way as the others." Nick informed him.
        "Planted," Allen said.
        "Well, mercury works instantly and the gun was dropped by
the body; there's a chip in the handle from the impact." Nick
answered.
        "Cool, let's check out Paul," Allen suggested.
        "He's not my type; besides, I'm happily married." Nick said
laughing.
        "Cute," Allen replied.
        "Sorry, I prefer Carla," Paul said proudly.
        "I'm hurt," Nick said placing his hand over his heart.
        "You'll live," Paul said grinning.
        "Boys, behave," Allen said holding up his hand.
        "Dad," Paul said smiling. "Well, he was shot in the heart
and the head, whoa, what's this?"
        "What you got?" Allen asked.
        "I've got a key, #316," Paul said.
        "Let's see," Allen replied.  "Bus locker key,"
        "Maybe, we'll check it out." Paul said.
        "Anything else?" Allen inquired.
        "Yeah," Nick sighed.  "Bill finds out you're here; you're
busted."
        "Maybe; I'll bring him out into the open." Allen suggested.
        "Okay, let's go to the Raven and Scott, he's off duty then
eat," Nick replied.
        "Good, lead the way," Paul said.
        They left the crime scene joining Reese and Kathy as the
Forensics people quickly removed the bodies and drove them to the lab.
        "Well, Chester was poisoned and the other was Mark Ting."
Nick reported.
        "What?" Reese asked.
        "Yeah; he was executed; two shots." Paul said.
        Reese slammed his fist into his open hand, "Damn it, now all
we have is this Rick guy."
        "Yes, sir." Nick said.
        "Great," Reese replied.  "Allen, you get back to safe haven."
        "I'm hoping to bring him out and stop this." Allen said.
        "Bill finds out…" Reese started.
        "Yeah, I know," Allen replied sighing.
        "All right, guys, off you go and don't forget the file."
Reese ordered.
        "Yes, Cap." Paul answered.
        They removed their gloves disposing them into the trash bag
next to Kathy and walked towards the car.  Allen climbed into his
truck, following Nick and Paul to the Raven and parked out front. 
They turned their engines off climbing out and entered the club. 
They saw LaCroix massaging her stomach and gave it a gentle kiss. 
They applauded walking down the stairs and stood by them.
        "How sweet," Paul said.
        "Hello, guys," LaCroix said blushing.
        Nick smiling, "Where's a camera when you need one?"
        "No," LaCroix replied.  "Scott, lunch time,"
        "Later, Nick," Paul said pulling Allen along.
        "You go and rest darling." LaCroix told Jamie.
        "Okay," Jamie said.
        Jamie slowly walked away into the back room and rested in
their old room.  LaCroix stood up walked Nick away from his friends
and they stood by the stairs.
        "Nicholas, how was the scene?" LaCroix asked.
        "This time Richard is the suspect; he killed another agent
and Mark Ting; his partner." Nick said.
        "Oh my," LaCroix replied with a slight moan.
        "Lucien, what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        LaCroix holding his stomach, "Not sure, a pain,"
        "Feel sick, or do you need to---uhm…" Nick questioned.
        "No, I'm fine in those areas, ah---this isn't funny,
Nicholas," LaCroix said moaning, leaning on Nick.
        "Scott, come here," Nick shouted.
        "Yes," Scott inquired.
        "Tell my friends I'm taking Lucien to the hospital to see
Doc, watch the girls." Nick instructed.
        "All right," Scott said.
        Scott left him fulfilling Nick's request as Nick helped
LaCroix up the stairs and outside to the car.  They climbed in; he
started the engine, with lights and siren, driving to the hospital's
lower level and parked next to the door.  He turned everything off,
climbed out and ran around to help LaCroix.  They walked into the
hospital, an aide saw them banging on Doc's door and he came running
out.
        "Room two," Doc Mason said.
        Nick took LaCroix into the room, LaCroix sat down on the bed
holding his stomach, moaning and very sweaty.
        "What happened?" Doc asked examining LaCroix.
        "We were talking and this pain, ah---this really hurts."
LaCroix said, groaning.
        "What did you have to eat?" Doc asked.
        "A glass of wine and few oysters," LaCroix replied.
        "Hold on, stay with him," Doc said.
        Doc left them alone entering the other room, a few moments
passed and returned with two needles, grinning, "Okay, Lucien, stand
up and drop them."
        "What?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Come on, time's running; Nicholas, help him out." Doc
ordered.
        LaCroix climbed down leaning on Nick unbuckling his belt and
unzipped his fly.
        "Nicholas, help him." Doc said.
        Nick helped LaCroix move his pants slightly down so Doc
could stick the needle into his butt and LaCroix jumped slightly then
Doc removed the needle.  LaCroix moaned slightly, breathing heavy.
        "Hold him Nicholas; Lucien, how do you feel?" Doc queried.
        LaCroix breathing heavy, "Same,"
        Doc exhaled, "All right, one more,"
        Doc gave LaCroix another shot on the other side then removed
it looking at Nick and watched.
        "Lucien?" Nick inquired.
        "It's getting better," LaCroix said exhaling in relief.
        "Good, when you're able to, fill this," Doc said.  "Be right
back,"
        "What happened?" LaCroix asked.
        Doc smiled, "My guess, you're allergic to shellfish."
        Nick laughed, "Uh-oh,"
        "You didn't feed Jamie fish, did you?" Doc asked.
        "No," LaCroix answered.
        "Good, it's not good for the baby until after it's born."
Doc told him.
        "Where's the bathroom?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Straight ahead, need help?" Nick inquired.
        "No, I'll be fine." LaCroix said walking away into the
bathroom and closed the door.
        "Nicholas, a moment please." Doc requested.
        "Sure," Nick said.
        Doc inhaled, "A personal note; when they were here a few
days ago, Molly mentioned you two are trying to get pregnant."
        "Yeah," Nick replied.
        "There's nothing wrong with either one of you, but do you
remember me saying your sperm count was slightly high?" Doc inquired.
        "I think so; we can have children, is that a problem?" Nick
questioned nervous.
        "Not really, you can father children but it may take a
little longer than a man with a normal count." Doc explained.  "Did
you tell Molly?"
        "No, I didn't know it was bad news." Nick said.
        LaCroix returned placing the cup down, "Bad news,"
        "No, it's," Doc hesitated.
        "It's okay; he's family remember," Nick said.
        "Yes sorry, what happens is that as you ejaculate, the heat
kills some of the sperm as it enters Molly, even though your count is
slightly high, some die before leaving your penis, not ejaculating
enough for Molly's eggs.  One idea to help is less hot showers
especially if you have sex in the shower." Doc explained further.
        "All right; you scared me for a minute." Nick said relaxing.
        "But, you do have one advantage over Lucien; your changes
for twins or more is higher than his." Doc said smiling.
        "Thanks Doc; I'll tell her." Nick said.
        They laughed together, "Okay guys; I'll call you with the
results, but know you have this allergy; stay away from it." Doc
ordered.
        "Thanks Doc." LaCroix said.
        "I'm always here, later gents." Doc said smiling.
        They exited the room walking down the hallway and outside. 
LaCroix gave his backside a slight rub, but noticed Nick was grinning.
        "Where to?" Nick queried.
        "Back to the club and what's so funny?" LaCroix queried.
        Nick coughed a little, "Did it hurt?"
        "Just my pride," LaCroix answered.
        "Jamie will fix it." Nick said.  "Come on,"
        "That's how she got pregnant." LaCroix said teasing him.
        They climbed into the car, but hesitated and LaCroix noticed
nudging his arm, "Nicholas, just have fun loving her, don't force
it." LaCroix told him.
        "I know, it's…" Nick started.
        "As far as the shower, a hint, heat it up yourselves using
cool water." LaCroix suggested.
        "Come on, I'm starving." Nick said.
        "Always," LaCroix whispered.
        "That hurt," Nick said.
        Nick started the engine backing up and headed back to the
club parking out front.  He turned the engine off; they climbed out
and walked inside.  They saw Scott with Jamie and Paul waiting for
them.
        "What's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "Scott, Nicholas needs a lunch." LaCroix requested.
        "All right," Scott said.
        "Jamie, follow me.  We'll talk later, Nicholas." LaCroix said.
        "Okay, Paul spill it." Nick said.
        "Sit down first." Paul said.
        "Here you go, Nicholas; Molly's at home with a friend of
mine; she's safe."
        "Thanks, Scott." Nick replied eating, "Okay,"
        "Allen got another threatening call, but this time on Kathy,
like you did on Molly." Paul told him.
        "We have to nail this guy; he's out of control." Nick said.
        "Well, the head Diplomat is on his way here from France to
meet with Reese and Bill; Richard has no clue." Paul briefed him.
        Nick, slight belch, "Excuse, good, maybe we can shut him
down."
        "No problem; let's hope so.  When you're done, it's lab
time." Paul said.
        "Scott, can I have a bottle of water for the road?" Nick
asked.
        "Here you go," Scott said handing him one.  "Safe journey,"
        "Thanks, call if needed." Nick requested.
        "All right," Scott answered.
        "Great lunch, thanks, let's go buddy." Nick said.
        Nick and Paul quickly left the Raven climbing into the car
and drove to the Forensics building.
        Up in the small room at the Raven, LaCroix sat down by Jamie
lying down on the bed.  He could see the worry in her eyes and he
gently rubbed her tummy.
        "Lucien, what did he say?" Jamie asked.
        LaCroix smiled, "I'm allergic to shellfish."
        "Uh-oh," Jamie replied.
        "Are you sick?" LaCroix inquired.
        "No, it's noon, but that means you got a shot." Jamie said
giggling.
        "Two actually," LaCroix replied softly.
        "You poor thing, can I help with that pain?" Jamie inquired.
        "Always, darling," LaCroix said with a loving smile.
        They kissed, caressed and made love for the afternoon,
before going home.
        Nick and Paul slowly approached the Forensics building, but
saw a line of cruiser's with flashing blue lights and Reese exiting
the building mumbling to himself.  Nick pulled up along the curb
parking, turned the engine off and they climbed out meeting him at
the bottom of the steps.
        "What happened?" Nick asked.
        "A drive by shooting; Kathy was hit." Reese told them.
        "Damn it," Nick shouted.
        "How?" Paul queried.
        "We're working on it.  Allen's there now, at the hospital;
go check with him; we have this covered." Reese ordered.
        "Yes, sir." Nick sighed.
        Nick and Paul quickly ran climbing into the car and Nick
started the engine.  He drove, top speed, to the hospital; Paul
turned the lights and siren on.  He parked out front near the front
door turning the engine off and they ran inside.  They saw Allen
standing by the desk pacing and waiting.  Nick and Paul approached
him standing next to him and waited with him; terrified.
        "Allen, hey man," Paul said.
        "Kathy," Allen whispered sadly.
        "It's okay," Nick said.
        Allen collapsed into Nick's arms crying on his shoulder then
saw the Doctor approaching, "Allen, the Doctor's coming," Nick said.
        "Hey, Doc, Allen Straton, how's Kathy?" Allen asked shaking.
        "You are?" the Doctor inquired.
        "Future husband; we live together, please," Allen pleaded
with tears in his eyes.
        "I'm Doctor Hawes; she's fine; she was shot in the abdomen;
no damage.  You may see her, but keep it short; she needs to rest."
Doctor Hawes explained.
        "Say, Doc, do you have that bullet?" Nick asked.
        "Yes, you are?" Hawes inquired.
        "Detective Nick Knight, Metro Homicide," Nick answered.

        "I'll bring it to you." Doc. Hawes said.
        "Thanks, let's go see Kathy." Paul replied.
        Doctor Hawes escorted them to Kathy's room on the fifth
floor and quietly entered.  Kathy was hooked up to a monitor, tubes,
and needles in her arm; still unconscious.  Nick and Paul stood at
the foot of the bed and Allen sat down by her side in the chair and
lovingly held her hand.  Doctor Hawes made a quick stop in giving
Nick a plastic bag with the bullet inside and quietly left.  Nick
moved along side of Allen and touched his arm.
        "I need to know what happened?" Nick inquired.
        Allen cleared his throat sniffing his tears back, "We were
talking about the case, my cell phone rang and bullets began to fly
then she fell like a rock."
        "I'm so sorry, man," Nick said.  "Who was on the phone?"
        "Uhm---no one, dead air," Allen answered.
        "It's okay, stay here; I'm calling for a guard, call if you
need anything." Nick said.
        "Yeah, okay, thanks man," Allen whispered.
        "Let's go," Nick suggested to Paul.
        They quietly left the room walking down the long corridor
and outside.  They took a few moments to calm their nerves and
glanced at each other.
        "Okay, I'll say it; I hate that Rick guy; we need to nail
his ass, diplomat or not," Paul said in anger, grinding his teeth.
        "In more ways then one, but how?" Nick inquired.
        "We have five dead; one injured," Paul replied.
        "He also threatened Allen and Molly," Nick told him.
        Paul paced slightly, "Let's head back to Lucien's, and tell
them about Kathy grab a beer then dinner with Carla."
        "Okay, I need to clear my head, this is pushing it.  Where
would he be staying; not at the big places he'd be noticed?" Nick
questioned.
        "Not sure; we'll play on the computer in the morning at your
place."  Paul suggested.
        "All right, come on," Nick said walking away.
        They climbed into the car; Nick started the engine and drove
home to LaCroix's loft.  He parked near the elevator turning the
engine off and they climbed out.  Paul bid farewell riding the bus
home and Nick rode up to the second floor stepping out then into
Molly's arms.
        "Just what I needed," Nick said exhaling.
        "That's all?" Molly queried, smiling.
        Nick laughed slightly, "Ah---uh-oh,"
        "I felt that," Molly replied.
        "I'm sure you did, let's go; where's Lucien and Jamie?" Nick
inquired.
        "They went out to eat." Molly replied.
        Nick grinned, "We're alone?"
        "Yes," Molly said.  "Why?"
        "Yes, come on," Nick said, gently pulling Molly by the hand.
        "Nick," Molly said.
        They climbed the stairs entering their bedroom and collapsed
onto the bed.  Nick exhaled loudly while Molly laughed and rolled
over looking at him.
        "What's going on?" Molly asked.
        "It's been awhile since we've had a place alone so I'm
taking full advantage of it." Nick said happily.
        "I see," Molly said.
        "Well, Doc. Mason told me you two were talking about
babies." Nick said.
        "Yeah, well, Jamie," Molly replied.
        "Remember when I had my physical," Nick reminded her.
        "Yeah," Molly answered.
        "He told me that my count was a little high," Nick said
softly.
        "Count," Molly hesitated. "Oh, your sperm count,"
        "Yeah," Nick said blushing.  "Well, he said it could take us
a little longer, harder; to get pregnant, and…" Nick replied.
        "Oh, more fun trying; and…?" Molly inquired.
        Nick laughed, "and we could have twins or…"
        "Nick," Molly said stunned.
        "Want to stop trying?" Nick inquired.
        "No way," Molly said happily.
        "Also, less hot water on him; he has enough heat," Nick told
her.
        "We can handle that," Molly said softly.
        Nick grinned, "Handle,"
        Molly rubbed his stomach looking into his blue eyes, "Yes,"
        "Hmm, I could use some loving handling right now," Nick
suggested.
        "Really?" Molly replied moving her hand to his fly massaging
him firmly.
        Nick rolled over lying on top of Molly kissing, caressing
and stripped down then making love to each other.
        ****
        At St. Claire's Hospital, on the lower levels, LaCroix and
Jamie walked into Doctor Mason's office and stood by his desk.  He
stood up walking around and greeted them warmly.
        "Hello, I'm so thrilled for you two; no words could ever
express it." Doc said.
        "Thank you," LaCroix said.
        "All right, Jamie, go in the next room and get ready;
Lucien, are you joining us?" Doc queried.
        "For what?" LaCroix inquired.
        "An ultra-sound; do you want to see your baby?" Doc asked.
        "Yes," LaCroix answered, slightly nervous.
        "Come on," Doc said, leading the way.
        They entered the room where Jamie was lying down with a
sheet covering her and LaCroix joined her.  Doc sat down prepping the
machine and turned it for them to see.  Doc gently placed a condom
onto the probe and slowly inserted into Jamie.  Doc carefully moved
it around as they watched in amazement and Doc suddenly stopped.
        "Okay, see this black circle and that little white dot?" Doc
inquired.
        "Yes," Jamie said.
        "That little white dot is your baby." Doc told them, "See
this scale with the line moving very fast?"
        "Yes," LaCroix said moving closer.
        "That's the heart beating." Doc said.
        LaCroix, with watery eyes, "Can you hear it?"
        "Let's try; it might be too early yet." Doc said.
        Doc turned up the volume to the monitor; you could hear a
slight heartbeat, like under water, and a tear slowly rolled down
LaCroix's cheek; lightly touching the screen.  He turned looking at
Jamie and her glowing smile of joy.
        "The baby looks great, next month, maybe two, the heartbeat
will be a lot clearer.  Are you going wait until birth or know
before?" Doc asked.
        "Know what?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Boy or girl," Doc said.
        "I don't know," LaCroix replied.
        "Well, you two talk about it; here's your picture Daddy, to
share and show off, see you next month." Doc said exiting.  "Jamie,
get dressed and becareful."
        Jamie slowly sat up stepping down and got dressed.  She
noticed LaCroix staring at the picture with tears and a smile.
        "Hey, you okay?" Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix exhaled, "It's real,"
        Jamie giggled, "Yes, darling, it's all very real,"
        "I love you," LaCroix said.
        "Love you too, let's go home," Jamie suggested.
        "All right," LaCroix said.
        LaCroix escorted Jamie out into the hallway, down the
corridor and outside to the car.  They climbed in; he started the
engine and drove home parking near the elevator.  He turned the
engine off; they climbed out stepping into the elevator and rode up
to the second floor.  They stepped out into the living room, and saw
Nick and Molly cuddling on the couch with hot coffee.
        Jamie excused herself walking up the stairs into their
bedroom, and LaCroix approached Nick and Molly handing the picture to
Nick.
        "What's this?" Nick asked.
        Molly laughed slightly in joy, "Their baby,"
        Molly stood up embracing LaCroix and went upstairs to see
Jamie.  Nick placed his coffee down standing up to face LaCroix and
smiled.
        LaCroix inhaled, "Nicholas?"
        "That's the baby, in Jamie?" Nick inquired.
        "Yes," LaCroix answered.
        Nick exhaled, "Amazing, this is increditable,"
        "Whom ever thought that we; that I would be standing here
human, married; a child and so happy and content." LaCroix said.
        "Same here, but working on the child part; a lot of fun."
Nick said embracing his father.
        "Just remember what we talked about; fun and relax." LaCroix
said.  "Come on, the women are waiting for us."
        "I know and I will, let's go," Nick said.
        They quickly locked up the loft climbing the stairs and
entered their own bedroom.  They changed for bed joining their wives
for warm loving and sleep to rest for the next day.
        ****
        The cool night hours slowly passed into early morning with a
golden sunrise that shined into Nick and Molly's room.  The alarm
sounded Nick reached over turning it off and rolled back seeing
Molly's warm face.  He lightly touched her nose; no response, rubbed
her stomach; still no response then her thigh and she moved away. 
Nick, stunned by the movement, the fact she was in a deep sleep; he
lightly kissed her cheek and waited.  Molly stretched opening her
eyes and saw the boyish grin.
        "Hi," Molly whispered half asleep.
        "Sleepy head," Nick said.  "Still tired?"
        "A little," Molly replied.
        Nick smiled, "You go back to sleep; I need to work, call me
if you need or want anything."
        "Hmm," Molly mumbled falling asleep.
        Nick laughed slightly kissing her forehead climbing out of
bed and strolled into the bathroom.  He stripped down facing the
toilet and urinated.  He flushed, starting the shower and stepped in.
He got cleaned up, leaned over turning the water off and stepped out.
He dried off walking back into the bedroom and removed clean clothes
from his dresser; got dressed.  Nick quietly left the bedroom closing
the door and met LaCroix in the hallway.  They walked downstairs into
the kitchen and made some coffee.  They sat down at the table next to
each other and savored a few moments together with hot coffee.
        "Where's Molly?" LaCroix asked.
        "Still sleeping, Jamie?" Nick inquired.
        LaCroix smiled, "Sleeping; I'm hoping this morning sickness
is over."
        "Same here; get the clothes," Nick replied.
        "Yes, how's the case?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Bad," Nick sighed frustrated.
        Jamie quietly strolled over to the table standing next to
LaCroix, "Honey, my lower back,"
        "Okay, come here," LaCroix said.
        LaCroix moved his chair slightly away from the table; Jamie
sat on his knees leaning on the table and he massaged her lower back,
"Thanks, hi Nicholas,"
        "Hi, feel better," Nick said grinning.
        "Ah---much," Jamie said.  "Watch and learn,"
        "Can't wait," Nick said.
        "Patience, dear boy," LaCroix said.
        Molly strolled in, "What's going on?"
        "Baby talk and a massage," Nick said.
        Molly yawned, "I'll have one,"
        Nick smiled, "Which one?"
        Molly laughed, "Massage first,"
        "Come on, have a seat," Nick said.
        Molly walked around sitting on Nick's lap and he massaged
her back, "How's that?"
        "Wonderful," Molly said exhaling.
        "Coffee's over there," Nick said.
        Molly moaned, "No thanks, I'll make some tea."
        "Tea," LaCroix said.
        "Yeah, I'm in the mood for tea." Molly said.
        "Sounds great, come on, later guys and thank you." Jamie said.
        "Thanks love," Molly said.
        "But…" Nick mumbled.
        The ladies carefully stood up walking into the kitchen
making tea and LaCroix and Nick glanced at each other.
        "That was quick," Nick sighed.
        "Yes it was," LaCroix replied.
        "Man, that was cold," Nick said sadly.
        LaCroix smiled, "You'll get use to it."
        A knock echoed from the door, Paul slowly opened entering
the loft and it closed automatically behind him.  Paul saw the ladies
enjoying their tea on the couch and the men at the table with long
faces.  Paul sat down at the table next to Nick and sighed in fear of
asking.
        "What's wrong?" Paul asked hesitating.
        Nick leaned upon the table, "We got replaced with hot tea."
        "Uh-oh," Paul said.  "Come on, your place to play."
        "Okay," Nick replied.  "Give me a few,"
        "Cool, Lucien, what's new?" Paul asked.
        "Picture of the baby," LaCroix answered.
        "Let's see," Paul requested.
        "Molly," Nick said.
        "Yeah," Molly replied meeting him at the door.
        "You okay?" Nick inquired.
        "I'm fine, why?" Molly queried.
        Nick smiled, "Nothing, I'll be upstairs, call me if you need
or want anything."
        "All right," Molly said.  "Love you,"
        "Love you too," Nick said kissing her.
        "Ah---give me a few; I'll be up," Paul said.
        "Okay," Nick replied slowly leaving.
        Molly watched him leave, but not too willingly, "Paul?"
        "Go on," Paul said.  "Jamie, Lucien said you have a picture
of the baby, let's see it."
        Molly stepped into the elevator riding up to the third floor
and stepped into their living room.  She saw Nick sitting on the
couch with his head lying on the back of the couch looking up and his
eyes were closed.  Molly quietly walked over sitting down on his lap
and kissed his chin.  Nick lowered his head and she saw his watery
eyes.
        "Nick, honey, what is it?" Molly asked.  "I'm sorry if I
hurt you."
        "Ah baby, you didn't; it's this case, the stress is
building; Kathy was shot and you've been…" Nick said sadly.
        "Honey, I'm fine; I have the best protection; my wonderful
husband and family." Molly replied.
        "I know, but I feel terrible I'm not here doing that." Nick
said.
        "You're out there doing what you do best; protecting us, but
also me, please," Molly replied.
        "You were taken once before; I can't…" Nick whispered shaking.
        "No one will take me away; only you can have me," Molly said
kissing him passionately.
        "Molly, I love you so much," Nick said kissing her lips then
her warm breasts.
        Molly began breathing heavy moving seductively upon his lap.
She reached down unbuckling his belt, his zipper and Nick moved his
pants down.  He shifted her panties aside and he deeply penetrated
her.  She let out a loud moan as he did; she rocked on him with a
firm hold and Nick felt his arousal getting hotter; out of control. 
'Ah---Molly---I'm,' he moaned out of control.  'Come on darling,'
Molly whispered moving faster.  'Ah---ah---Molly,' he said as he held
Molly tight feeling his essence emerging deep inside.  'Nick,' Molly
moaned as their climax reached the highest peak grabbing him.
        "It's okay; I've got you." Molly said rubbing his back.
        "Ah man," Nick mumbled.  "You sure did."
        "Good," Molly replied.  "Just relax a few,"
        "Trying," Nick whispered.
        "Feel better?" Molly inquired.  "I thought that massage got
to you."
        "It did, but you were busy." Nick said.
        "Look at me; I'm never too busy for you; we promised to pass
hints, remember," Molly told him.
        "True, I'm sorry," Nick said.
        "When can we come home to stay?  I miss…" Molly inquired.
        "Me too, soon; I promise." Nick said.
        "How do you feel?" Molly questioned.
        "Fantastic, you," Nick answered.
        "How about a shower and we heat up the cool water?" Molly
suggested.
        "Oh yeah, let's try," Nick said.
        Molly carefully stood up extending her hand, Nick grabbed
his pants and followed him up the stairs to their bedroom for a
shower; perhaps more loving.
        Paul slowly entered Nick's loft hearing the water and
laughed slightly.  Paul helped himself to a beer leaving one out for
Nick and sat down at the computer playing with the keyboard.  About
thirty minutes passed by as Nick and Molly approached the balcony and
saw him there working and grinning.  Paul looked up watching them
walk down the stairs and walked towards him.
        Paul clapped his hands together, grinning, "Nick's back."
        "Funny," Nick said.
        "I want to do a few things here while you two work; I'll go
to Lucien's when you leave." Molly requested.
        "All right, becareful, no lifting or rough stuff." Nick
replied.
        "How about a hot breakfast?" Molly suggested.
        "Great; I'm starving," Nick replied, smiling.
        "I'm sure," Molly said kissing him and squeezed his butt.
        "Hey," Nick moaned watching her walk away into the kitchen.
        "Nick, yo Nick," Paul said snapping his fingers.
        "Sorry," Nick said.  "What have you done so far?"
        "Well, I've been drafting his plan," Paul said.  "Look,"
        Paul pointed out the entire case to him; the victims, the
evidence and how he got away.  He also pulled up the two case files
and Nick pulled a chair over sitting next to him and memorized every
word he read.  Molly strolled in with their breakfast; he kissed her
and she sat down on the couch watching the news.  Nick smiled
glancing at her, Paul tapped his arm slowing him the screen and a
name.
        "Who's that?" Nick asked.
        "Another piece to the puzzle, Connie Fagan; she was the
other witness next to Allen and Ben." Paul answered.
        "Ben?" Nick inquired.
        "The other witness in hiding; Bill handled it." Paul told him.
        "Okay, this guy has taken five lives, threatened two and
injured one.  He's a Diplomat; untouchable." Nick whispered.
        "Well, maybe the head guy will release his immunity and he
goes away permanently." Paul replied.
        "What about the bullet; any results yet?" Nick inquired.
        "Not yet." Paul answered.
        "All right, time to tie it up, call Ryan and I'll get Molly
ready." Nick said.
        "Done," Paul said.
        Nick got up from his chair walking towards Molly and sat
down next to her.  Molly was sleeping on the couch with a glowing
smile and Nick laughed slightly.  He leaned over kissing her forehead
and she slowly woke up to his boyish grin.
        "What happened?" Molly asked.
        Nick exhaled, "You fell asleep, did I wear you out?"
        "Cute, time to go?" Molly inquired.
        "Yes, come on," Nick said.
        Molly slowly stood up; slightly dizzy, "Whoa,"
        "You okay?" Nick inquired concerned.
        Molly laughed slightly, "I'm fine."
        They quickly exited Nick's loft riding down to LaCroix's
loft and stepped out.  Nick escorted Molly to the couch and walked
towards LaCroix sitting at the table reading the paper.  He stood up
to greet Nick.
        "Lucien, watch Molly closely; she had a dizzy spell after I
woke her up." Nick explained.
        "Hmm, dizzy, sleeping," LaCroix thought out loud.
        "What?" Nick asked concerned.
        "Nothing, go on and don't worry; she's fine." LaCroix said.
        "Are you sure?" Nick questioned.
        "Yes, don't worry," LaCroix said walking Nick to the door.
        Nick and Paul left the loft heading for the Forensics
building and LaCroix turned around seeing Jamie walking down the
stairs.  He walked towards her embracing her and they kissed
passionately.  Jamie noticed the grin on his face and that sparkle in
his eyes.
        "Lucien," Jamie said.
        "Nicholas told me Molly had a dizzy spell and she's sleeping
more." LaCroix told her.
        "You think?" Jamie suggested.
        "Let's hope so," LaCroix said.  "Let Molly rest, join me
with a hot cup of tea."
        "Yes, and some toast; I'm hungry." Jamie said eagerly.
        "All right, come on," LaCroix replied.
        They strolled into the kitchen made their toast and tea, and
sat down at the table enjoying a cozy moment together while Molly
rested on the couch.
        Nick and Paul arrived outside the Forensics building and
parked along the curb.  He turned the engine off; they climbed out
and ran up the stairs inside.  They saw Ryan sitting down at Kathy's
desk working on the file.  They quietly walked in and stood by him.
        "Ryan," Nick said.
        "Sorry, hold on," Ryan requested.
        "No rush," Paul said.
        "Okay, here you go; everything is in there for you; the
bullet from Kathy is from the same type of gun that you found and
there were no prints; he must have worn gloves.  The gun was a
missing weapons list from that case a year ago; it was missing and
it's also linked to the murder case in France at the same time." Ryan
briefed them.
        "Thanks, Ryan, great job." Nick said.
        "Thank you, how's Kathy doing?" Ryan queried.
        "We're on our way there now," Paul said.
        "Tell her she's missed and we're pulling for her." Ryan said.
        "We will, later." Nick said.
        Nick and Paul walked out of the lab, down the stairs and
over to the car climbing in.
        "Paul, call Reese, have him tell Bill to bring head guy to
the station; we'll do a round-up with him.  I'm calling to see how
Molly is." Nick requested.
        Nick pulled out his cell phone dialing LaCroix's loft and he
answered, "Hello?"
        "Lucien, how's Molly?" Nick inquired.
        "She's fine, full of energy.  She's upstairs with a guard
fixing up your place.  I'll send Scott up there in a few." LaCroix
answered.
        "Thanks, I'll call there." Nick said hanging up and dialing
his place.
        "Hello?" Molly replied.
        "Hey, love, how are you feeling?" Nick queried.
        Molly exhaled, "Very well; I'm cleaning and doing laundry."
        "Don't too much, okay," Nick told her.
        "I won't," Molly replied.  "Are you okay?"
        "Missing you a lot," Nick answered.
        "Same here," Molly replied.
        "I'll see you later, love you tons," Nick said.
        "Love you tons," Molly said kissing him through the phone
then hung up.
        Nick placed his phone into his pocket starting the engine,
"Well?"
        "All set, how's Molly?" Paul asked.
        "She's fine, let's roll," Nick said.
        Nick drove away from the curb heading for the hospital
parking near the front door and turned the engine off.  They climbed
out walking up the path and entered the hospital.  They approached
the nurse's desk requesting Kathy's room and they entered the
elevator riding up to the fifth floor.  They walked down the hall
seeing the guard out front and quietly entered room; caught them
kissing passionately.
        "Well, they're back to normal." Paul said.
        "Hey, guys," Allen replied.
        They hugged each other and kissed Kathy, but Nick grabbed
Allen's arm, "Hey, Bud, the other day you told the Doctor you two
were engaged,"
        "Yeah," Allen said.
        "Really?" Paul inquired surprised.
        Kathy smiled, "Yeah, its true, a few nights ago."
        "Fantastic; I'm thrilled." Nick said happily.
        "Me too," Paul said, grinning.
        "Okay, anything on the bullet," Allen inquired.
        "Well, it came from the same type of gun we found at the
crime scene." Nick told him.  "Kathy, Ryan says hi and they're
pulling for you."
        "Thanks," Kathy whispered.
        "We need to…" Allen started.
        "Yes, WE will, but you stay here with Kathy." Paul insisted.
        "Party later to celebrate a baby, a new home and now, your
engagement; Lucien's place," Nick said.
        "All right, later," Allen replied.
        Nick and Paul quietly left them alone walking down the hall
and rode the elevator down to the main floor stepping out.  They
exited the hospital walking towards the car climbing in and Nick
started the engine.  He quickly backed out and headed for the station.
        Nick parked out front turning the engine off; they climbed
out and ran inside of the building.  They walked down to Allen's
office entering then closed the door behind them.  They faced Reese,
Bill and the head diplomat of France
        "Hello, gents, this is Sir. Henri Bousquat; Sir, these are
Detectives Paul Coletti and Nick Knight." Bill introduced them.
        "Hello, please call me Henri; what seems to be the problem?"
Henri asked.
        "Let's all sit down and we will inform you on everything we
have." Bill suggested.
        They sat down around Allen's desk and discussed the entire
case with Sir Henri Bousquat.
        ****
        Back at LaCroix's loft; Molly and the guard had just
returned to the loft and LaCroix walked up to greet her.  He extended
his arm to her and escorted her to the couch.  Molly began breathing
heavy, a little distant and looking around her; looking for Nick.
        "Molly, are you all right?  Jamie," LaCroix shouted.
        "Yeah, it's warm, it's…" Molly replied fainting into
LaCroix's arms.
        "Lucien," Jamie said seeing them.
        "Call Doctor Mason; I'll take her upstairs and call
Nicholas." LaCroix said.
        "Right away; I'll also call Scott; we'll need him." Jamie
suggested.
        "Good idea, bring some water and a towel." LaCroix requested
carrying Molly upstairs to her bedroom.
        LaCroix gently laid her down and pulled out his cell phone
dialing Nick.
        Nick and the others have filled Henri in and were discussing
Richard when his cell phone rang, "Excuse me, Knight,"
        "Nicholas, I'm sorry to call you, but you're needed here. 
Molly fainted." Jamie said.
        "On my way," Nick said hanging up.  "I'm sorry; it's my wife,"
        "Nick," Paul said.
        "Come when your done," Nick said, leaving them behind.
        Jamie came in with a bowl of water and towel placing it on
the nightstand and stood there watching.
        "Thank you," LaCroix said.
        "I'll go downstairs and wait for Doc; she okay?" Jamie
inquired, scared.
        "She's fine; you all right?" LaCroix questioned.
        "Just worried," Jamie replied.
        "Becareful, it's not good for you or the baby.  Stay here
with me until someone arrives." LaCroix said.
        "All right," Jamie whispered.
        "Lucien," Nick screamed, entering the loft.
        Jamie stepped out into the hallway, yelled, 'up here,' and
Nick came running.  Doc was about two feet behind him walking towards
Jamie.
        "All right, everyone listen; Lucien, take Jamie downstairs
and comfort her.  Nicholas, stay here.  Lucien, she just fainted;
that's it," Doc inquired.
        "Yeah," LaCroix whispered.
        "All right, hot tea and deep breathing; I'll be down in a
few to look at Jamie." Doc said.
        Doc entered the bedroom seeing Nick sitting by her side,
crying slightly and stroking her arm, "Hey, Nicholas, you okay?"
        "Molly," Nick whispered.
        "Oh yeah, hold on," Doc said.
        Doc reached into his pocket pulling out a small jar and
opened it.  He carefully held it under her nose and Molly jumped
waking up.  Molly saw Nick embracing him tight and then saw Doctor
Mason.
        "What happened?" Molly asked scared.
        "Lay back Molly, how do you feel?" Doc queried.
        "Nervous," Molly answered.
        "Anything different lately?" Doc inquired.
        "Not that I…" Molly started.
        "She sleeps more; she fainted." Nick said.
        "Have you two been doing what I suggested?" Doc asked.
        "Yes," Nick replied.  "No way,"
        "With everything going on; your case; Lucien and Jamie; it's
possible.  Molly, when was your last period?" Doc requested.
        "Four; five weeks," Molly answered.
        "May I?" Doc inquired.
        "Yes," Molly replied, giving him permission.
        Doc lightly pressed her breasts; Molly moved slightly, he
pressed her lower stomach; she moved again.  He removed rubber tubing
and a needle taking a blood sample from her then placed it into the
bag.
        "All right; I realize you only started the new suggestion
recently, but you have not used condoms in that amount of time?" Doc
inquired.
        "No we haven't; do you think she is?" Nick asked.
        "It looks it, but I'll run this and do a test in a day or
two, that way it's close to six weeks and enough time.  You guys will
be very busy and crazy with both of them and a few weeks apart." Doc
said laughing.
        "You too," Nick said smiling.  "My God,"
        "I'll let you tell them; I'm going to check Jamie then let
myself out, but I'm willing to bet they're…" Doc said.
        A knock echoed on the door; Doc stood up exiting the bedroom
as LaCroix entered the room and saw them.
        "Molly, get some rest; I'll be back in a few minutes," Nick
said.
        "Don't be long," Molly said softly.
        "Long enough to pee, eat and talk to Lucien and Jamie." Nick
told her.
        "Okay," Molly said following asleep.
        LaCroix escorted Nick out into the hallway and walked a few
feet away, "Nicholas?"
        "We were married in October, three week honeymoon; Jamie's
eight; two months; the case has been running a few weeks and now
Molly…" Nick blurted out.
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix inquiring, holding his shoulders.
        "Molly could be about five to six weeks along." Nick said
exhaling with tears.
        They embraced each other tight walking down the hall; Nick
into the bathroom and LaCroix at Jamie's side with Doc ready to leave.
        "Okay; I'm overwhelmed here; I'm going home for a beer with
the wife; two vampires and one Dhampir return; Jamie's pregnant and
possibly Molly; unreal.  I'll call with the results.  You relax; no
more stress." Doc said.
        "Thanks Doctor Mason," LaCroix said smiling.
        "Thank you for allowing me to be part of this." Doc said
leaving with Paul entering and Nick exited the bathroom fixing his
fly.
        "Nick, Molly, okay?" Paul inquired concerned.
        Nick smiled widely, "It's possible she's…"
        "No way, awesome, fantastic," Paul said hugging Nick.
        "We'll know in a few days; it's too early," Nick said.
        "My God; twins the hard way, unreal; major celebration,"
Paul said beaming.
        "Lunch first; I'm starving," Nick said.  "Come on,"
        Nick and Paul raided the kitchen sitting down at the table
eating sandwiches and drinking water.  LaCroix left Jamie on the
couch resting and joined them at the table.
        "You guys are fast," Paul said.
        "When it feels right; you go with it." Nick said smiling.
        "True, and a true blessing for us," LaCroix said.
        "We have two babies and two weddings." Paul replied sighing.
        "Two weddings," LaCroix inquired.
        "Well, there's Carla and myself and now, Kathy and Allen."
Paul said.
        "These five; six weeks of knowing each other has been fast,
exciting, non-stop events and ton of fun." Paul said proudly.
        "I agree," LaCroix said.
        "Me too," Nick replied.
        "But sadly, we need to head back to the station," Paul told
Nick.
        "I want to see Molly first," Nick said standing up and
walked away.
        Nick walked upstairs entering his bedroom and saw Molly
lying on the bed resting peacefully.  He gently sat down lightly
stroking her cheek and then placed his hand upon her stomach.  Molly
slowly opened her eyes placing her hand on his and saw the tears.
        "Honey," Molly whispered.
        "It's amazing; I'm speechless," Nick said.  "I have always
dreamed; wished for a family, someone to love and love me in return
and…"
        "Darling," Molly said.  "It's all real and we are truly
blessed."
        "Yes we are, all right, get some rest and I'll be home soon
then we can celebrate." Nick told her.
        "Definitely," Molly replied.
        "Love you tons," Nick expressed warmly.
        "Love you tons," Molly said kissing him passionately.
        Nick slowly left Molly behind to rest and dream of there own
possibility of a child.  He walked down the stairs meeting Paul at
the couch with LaCroix sitting next to Jamie.
        "Well, she's sleeping, you ready?" Nick inquired.
        "Yeah," Paul answered.
        "Call me if you need or want anything." Nick told LaCroix.
        "All right; she's fine, but do pity me," LaCroix requested.
        "Why?" Nick asked.
        "He's staying with two pregnant women." Paul said smiling.
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang, "Knight,"
        "Nick, report to the alley behind Hank's bar, another one,"
Reese briefed him.
        "On our way," Nick said hanging up.  "Damn,"
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Nick," Paul said.
        Nick exhaled, "We got another one,"
        "Shit," Paul hissed in anger.
        "We'll be here when you come home, go on." LaCroix replied.
        "Diplomat or not; he's slime and going away, permanently,"
Nick told Paul.
        "Right on, lead the way." Paul said extending his hand.
        "Paul," Nick whispered.
        "Daddy," Paul said grinning.
        Paul showed Nick to the door exiting the loft and rode down
to the car outside.  They climbed in; Nick started the engine and
drove to the alley behind Hank's.  He pulled up along the edge of the
alley with the cruiser's flashing their blue lights and cops
surrounded the area.  They saw Ryan standing next to Reese shaking
his head in disgust; not looking happy.  Nick turned the engine off;
they climbed out and cautiously approached them.
        "Hey, guys," Nick said.
        "Molly okay?" Reese inquired.
        "She's fine," Nick answered.  "What you got?"
        Ryan inhaled, "One female; mercury poison and brutally raped."
        "Not again," Nick mumbled.
        "She wasn't sodomized; just raped and killed." Ryan said.
        "Okay, got gloves," Paul requested.
        "Here you go; watch your step; broken glass." Ryan explained.
        "Dandy," Paul said.  "Let's go bud; I want him so far gone;
he will never see a speck of dust."
        "Whoa; I'm looking for ten feet under." Nick suggested.
        "I like, come on," Paul said leading the way.
        "You go right; I'll go left," Nick suggested.
        "Okay, Jack, follow close," Paul said.
        "Yes, sir." Jack said.
        They carefully strolled each side of the body and alley,
knowing it was Richard, but it was part of the job.  They knelt down
examining the body; Paul found the needle hole with silver balls
lying on the ground and Nick could see the evidence that she was
raped.  They stood up walking back to Ryan with Jack in tow and
peeled off their gloves placing them into the trash bag next to Ryan.
        "Same Cap," Nick said.
        "We know," Reese replied.
        Nick's cell phone rang pulling it out from his pocket,
"Knight,"
        "Nick, how's Molly?" Richard asked.
        "Clear of you, where are you?" Nick inquired angrily.
        "In due time; Ben's here, alive for the moment; bring me
Allen and Molly tomorrow night, midnight." Richard demanded.
        "Not Molly under any conditions; she's not well and she's
mine." Nick told him.
        "Ben dies," Richard said.
        "We can trade, discuss deals, but nothing with my wife,
that's it." Nick said hanging up.
        "Nick?" Reese inquired concerned.
        "Richard, he wanted to trade; he's got Ben." Nick told him.
        "Trade for whom?" Paul inquired.
        "Allen and Molly," Nick said.
        "No way, not in her condition, with Allen we can fight him."
Paul shouted slightly.
        "What's her condition?" Reese insisted.
        "She may be pregnant." Nick said proudly.
        "Fantastic, but not her," Reese replied.
        "Thanks, now what?" Nick queried.
        Reese exhaled, "Kathy's safe in the hospital; I'll have
Allen driven to your cousin's loft for safety, if he stays.  Tomorrow
morning; nine o'clock, check in with round-up and set up with Henri. 
Right now, go home,"
        "Thanks, Cap." Nick said.
        "I'll get a ride from Jack; call me later, if you can.  I'll
see you about eight." Paul said.
        "Okay, later." Nick said leaving the alley.
        Nick climbed into the car starting the engine and quickly
drove home parking near the elevator.  He turned the engine off
climbing out and saw LaCroix standing next to the elevator.  He
walked over embracing his father and they stepped in.  LaCroix pushed
the third button for Nick's loft and they stepped out into the living
room.
        "Lucien, what's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "I wanted us alone to talk without fear of the ladies. 
Scott's there." LaCroix said.
        "Grab two beers, give me a few," Nick said running to the
spare bathroom.
        After doing his business in the bathroom; he flushed it
moving slightly washing his hands then joined LaCroix at the couch
and sat down exhaling.  LaCroix handed him a beer clanging the
bottles and inhaled half of the bottle.
        "Better?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Much; what's up?" Nick queried.
        "I have lost most of my long past memories; a few still
remain, but I'm still numb to our wondrous life." LaCroix said.
        "So am I; I have longed for it, fought for it; human, Molly
and a child, or the possibility of a child; it's scary." Nick said.
        "As with Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "What do you remember?" Nick asked.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Like you suggested, only what I choose;
us, how we were vampires and the pain we caused, but I choose to
remember how we remained close, helped each other then returned to
humanity; our wedding, redemptions, and we're true father's." LaCroix
replied.
        "I know; it feels so increditable, and yet, scary." Nick said.
        "Tian's been here a few times; watching." LaCroix said.
        "He has, why?" Nick questioned.
        LaCroix inhaled, "Because we were brought back and they're
not pleased."
        "Really, two words for them." Nick said directly.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix replied stunned.
        "Well?" Nick inquired.
        "I agree, but…" LaCroix said.
        Nick exhaled, "Let's head down; I'm hungry and need a hug."
        "Me too, "LaCroix agreed.
        "Lucien, before we go; I just want to say I'm grateful for
you staying at my side even though I was rough to you, it means the
world to me, and I will always think of you as my father." Nick told
him fondly.
        LaCroix smiled warmly placing his hand on Nick's upper arm,
"As do I, my son, as do I, am grateful for your love and guidance."
        "Come on," Nick said hugging him.
        They stepped into the elevator riding downward to the second
floor and stepped out.  The women were waiting for them embracing
them as they approached and they walked up the stairs into their own
bedroom.
        Nick and Molly stood holding and caressing each other and
gazed into each other's eyes seeing the love they share.  They kissed
passionately and stepped back a moment to breathe.
        "Nick, you okay?" Molly inquired.
        "Yes, very; you," Nick replied.
        Molly rubbed her stomach exhaling, "Do you think…?"
        "Maybe; I'll pick up a test tomorrow for the following
morning; we'll know then.  How do you feel?" Nick queried.
        "I'm not sure, warm, nervous, excited; I'm not sure if it's
because I might be or you." Molly said seductively.
        "Well, I'm honored and so is he." Nick said grinning.
        "Oh, I can see and feel that." Molly said stroking his crotch.
        "What can we do?" Nick asked.
        "One guess; come on," Molly said starting to remove her
clothes.
        Nick joined her removing his clothes climbing into bed and
they made love for the night; maybe a little sleep.
        Jamie exited the bathroom, and saw LaCroix standing next to
the bed in a daze.  She carefully sat down turning his body to face
her and she kissed his stomach.  LaCroix smiled stroking her hair and
soft cheek.
        "Lucien," Jamie spoke.
        "Yes, darling," LaCroix replied.
        Jamie smiled, "Where are you?"
        "Thinking about the first time I saw Nicholas and that night
I turned him." LaCroix answered.
        "Why?" Jamie asked.
        "Man talk about our long past and grateful for what we have
now." LaCroix said.
        "I see; love you," Jamie said.
        "I love you Jamie, so much," LaCroix replied proudly.
        "What can I do for you?" Jamie asked.
        LaCroix smiled gazing into her loving eyes, "Surprise me."
        Jamie smiled unbuckling his belt, slowly unzipped his fly
and moved his pants down.  She stared at him stroking, caressing him
and massaged his testicles.  LaCroix closed his eyes, breathing
became erratic and heavy.  Jamie began to kiss and pump his hardness.
He moaned slightly with every stroke, feeling weak in his knees.  She
felt his body shake, getting hotter and his hardness pulsating. 
Jamie picked up the towel she had at her side; she stroked him faster
with a tighter grip; He moaned louder and began to sweat.  'Jamie,
I'm,' he whispered.  'I know, come for me,' she said breathing
erratic.  'Ah---Jamie---ah,' he said with a loud moan; Jamie covered
him stroking fast and hard exploding into the towel as LaCroix
exhaled hard.
        "I got you; you okay?" Jamie inquired.
        "Yes, that was intense," LaCroix said winded.
        Jamie laughed, "It's been awhile since I've done that."
        "That's all right; you okay?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Yes," Jamie replied softly.
        "Good, my turn," LaCroix said smiling.
        LaCroix slowly followed Jamie lying down on the bed making
love and perhaps some sleep.
        ****
        The night hours passed into a clear but cool day and the sun
shined high above the city, but also into Nick and Molly's room.  The
sunlight traveled upward shining on Nick's glowing face.  He crinkled
his eyes and nose waking up then turned his alarm off.  He rolled
back seeing Molly sound asleep.  Nick gently crawled out of the bed
walking into the bathroom and stripped down.  He stood by the toilet
urinating then flushed and started the shower.  He stepped in
cleaning up for the day and rinsed out his golden hair.  He turned
the water off stepping out, dried off and walked into the room by his
dresser.  He removed a fresh set of clothes getting dressed and gave
Molly a kiss upon her cheek then exited the room.
        Nick made his way downstairs into the kitchen and made
coffee then grabbed a banana ort two.  He strolled into the living
room with his breakfast and sat down on the couch turning the
television on for some news.  A knock echoed from the door; he said,
'come in,' and Paul strutted in joining him on the couch.
        "Hey, Nick," Paul said happily.
        "Hey, Paul," Nick said in return.  "What's up?"
        "Ryan's got the last of the results; Sir Henri says Richard
is no longer a member of the Embassy, so we can do what we wish to
him." Paul replied.
        "Great," Nick said, grinning.
        "Under the law, Nick, shame on you; Ben gave us a full
statement before Rick got him, and Kathy's home resting with Allen. 
Also, we have two weddings and two babies coming." Paul added.
        "Molly's not official yet." Nick said.
        "Trust me; I'm not wrong; I know you." Paul said, shaking
his finger at Nick.
        Molly walked down the stairs saying Nick's name and stood at
the foot of the stairs; looking very pale.
        "Paul, water and the brown bottle on the sink," Nick
requested.
        "Nick, help…" Molly whispered, fainting.
        "That's why I said," Paul said running into the kitchen.
        Nick ran to Molly catching her and carried her to the couch.
Paul returned with what Nick requested and handed him the brown
bottle.  He opened it holding it under her nose and she jumped
slightly waking up.  He took the water helping Molly drink it and
Paul sat down in the chair watching.  Nick sat down on the coffee
table holding Molly's hand and stroking her cheek.
        "Oh, not again," Molly moaned, rubbing her head.
        Nick laughed slightly, "Yes, I'm afraid so.  How do you feel?"
        "Embarrassed," Molly whispered.
        "Why?" Nick asked.
        Molly exhaled, "I don't like fainting; I feel out of control."
        "Sorry," Nick said.
        "Thanks," Molly replied.
        "Let's see, Jamie sleeps a lot and throws up; Molly sleeps a
lot and faints; poor guys." Paul said.
        "Actually, Jamie's over hers; she eats a lot now, but still
sleeps a lot.  Molly has a few more weeks to go," Nick told him.
        "Are you sure you're ready and happy about this?" Molly asked.
        "More than ready and when it's official; I will show you how
happy and ecstatic I am about the baby.  The question is, are you?"
Nick said lovingly.
        "Oh, Nick," Molly said crying.
        "Why the tears?" Nick queried.
        "Tears of joy," Molly replied.
        "Very emotional," Paul whispered.
        Nick and Molly embraced; he held her until her tears stopped
flowing then LaCroix walked down the stairs and joined them.
        "What's wrong?" LaCroix asked.
        Paul laughed, "Molly sleeps a lot, faints and very emotional,"
        "Oh dear," LaCroix sighed.  "Well, Jamie's still sleeping;
can I make anything for anyone?"
        "I'm cool.  Nick, I'll be out in the car." Paul expressed
leaving quickly.
        "All right," Nick said.
        "I'll be in the kitchen," LaCroix told Nick.
        Molly sat back wiping her eyes, sniffed her tears, "I'm
sorry,"
        "Don't be, it's okay," Nick said.
        "I hope I can handle this," Molly replied, sniffing her nose.
        Nick pulled out his hanky handing it to her, "We will make a
wonderful team for our baby." Nick told her.
        "I know, but…" Molly started.
        "No buts, how about some tea?" Nick queried.
        "With honey," Molly requested.
        Nick smiled, "All right, be right back, just rest."
        Nick stood up walking into the kitchen and joined LaCroix. 
Nick prepared Molly's tea and returned to her handing her the tea. 
Nick gave her a loving kiss and smile.
        "Call me okay," Nick said.  "Lucien, lunch at the Raven?"
        "Yes, the guard, Dan, will stay here." LaCroix told him.
        "Great," Nick said.  "Love you,"
        "Love you too," Molly said relaxing.
        Nick exited the loft riding down in the elevator and outside
to the car.  Paul was inside waiting; Nick climbed in and started the
engine.  He carefully backed out driving to the station and parked
along the left side of the building.  Nick turned the engine off
climbing out and they ran inside of the building.  They walked
towards Allen's office and entered closing the door.  Inside were
Reese, Sir. Henri and Allen; they sat down around Allen's desk
preparing to bring Richard down.
        "All right, guys; we have everything in, Allen's here to
help to shut him down and Sir. Henri has removed him from the
Embassy; he's a civilian.  He has Ben hostage and wants Allen and
Molly.  Molly is not involved, period.  Nick, we need you to deal
with him somehow." Reese briefed them.
        "He may not; his main goal is to kill Allen and take Molly
back." Paul said.
        "What about a decoy for Molly?" Allen suggested.
        "It could work," Nick said.
        "He knows her too well, may not," Reese replied.
        "I did say she was sick," Nick replied.
        Reese thought, "Maybe; we could try it; we'll try Lisa at it."
        "Great," Paul answered.
        "All right, fill out the file, go see Forensics and pick up
that file.  Ryan has the jewelry Connie wore; return that to her
mother." Reese ordered.
        "Yes, Cap," Nick answered.
        "How's Jamie and Molly?" Reese asked.
        "Jamie's better; eats and sleeps and Molly still sleeps a
lot, faints and very emotional." Nick briefed him.
        "I pity you and Lucien at labor time." Reese said.
        "We figure their about two to three weeks apart.  I'll know
officially tomorrow morning." Nick said.
        "Learn fast, baby will tell you when; not the other way
around; trust me." Reese said.
        "Thanks Cap," Nick said.  "Let's get going,"
        Nick and Paul exited Allen's office walking towards Nick's
desk and sat down warming up the computer then began working on the
set up on Richard.  Paul waved Lisa over and explained what her part
was in the set up.
        ****
        At the Raven; LaCroix and Scott began cleaning up the club
where it was closed for awhile.  Scott noticed how quiet LaCroix was;
he was leaning on the bar, very distant.  Scott walked over standing
on the opposite side of the bar and tapped his arm.
        "Lucien, you all right?" Scott inquired.
        "Yes, thinking about the past," LaCroix replied.
        "Future looks much brighter," Scott said.
        "Yes it does; we're crazy around here with two babies."
LaCroix replied.
        "Molly as well?" Scott inquired.
        "Looks like it, we'll know for sure tomorrow." LaCroix said.
        "My very best for your family," Scott said.
        "Family; who knew, let's finish up." LaCroix replied. 
"Nicholas will be here in a few for lunch."
        "All right," Scott answered.
        "Who's with the ladies?" LaCroix asked.
        "To make it less obvious; I sent a female Dhampir, her name
is Mia." Scott told him.
        "I see, a friend of yours?" LaCroix queried, smiling.
        "Yes," Scott said, slightly hesitant.
        "Girlfriend perhaps," LaCroix replied teasing.
        "Lucien," Scott said.
        Nick quietly snuck in walking down the stairs behind Scott
and listened.
        "Scott, you animal you," LaCroix said grinning.
        "Lucien," Scott said looking away.
        "Hey, Scott, holding out on us," Nick said.
        Scott jumped a little, "No, it's just that; I'm not ready
yet."
        "I see, when you're ready, okay," Nick replied.
        "Sure; I'll get your lunch, be right back." Scott said.
        Scott slowly disappeared into the backroom preparing Nick's
lunch, but Nick and LaCroix enjoyed a good laugh on Scott's behalf. 
They sat down at the bar enjoying a bottle of water and small talk.
        "Where's Paul?" LaCroix asked.
        "He's checking out the bus key and returning the jewelry to
Connie's mother." Nick told him.
        "I see; did you remember the test?" LaCroix queried.
        "Yes, it's in the car." Nick said, looking away.
        "What is it?" LaCroix asked concerned.
        "It's just that; I want it so much, that I'm afraid of…"
Nick started.
        "Nicholas; I doubt it, but if for some reason she's not; you
must be strong for her but mainly for both of you. If not now, you
will later, have faith." LaCroix expressed warmly.
        "I know; it's just that I have this hunger for…" Nick started.
        "Good word," LaCroix laughed.
        "Lucien," Nick sighed.
        "Nicholas, my dear boy and close friend, no one knows that
hunger better then us, but it will take place." LaCroix assured him.
        The door to the Raven slowly opened with Doctor Mason
walking in and down the stairs joining them at the bar.  Doc stood
grinning, feeling the tension in the air and folded his hands in
front glaring at LaCroix.
        "Uh-oh," LaCroix whispered.  "Hello, Doctor,"
        "Hello, gentlemen," Doc said.
        "What's the grin for?" Nick asked fearfully.
        Doc cleared his throat, "Well, Lucien; you must avoid all
types of shellfish; crab, oysters, shrimp, etc., okay,"
        "That's bad," LaCroix inquired.
        "Yes," Doc answered.  "Nicholas, do the home test, call me
with the results and the blood test should be done tomorrow
afternoon; stop worrying or you'll develop an ulcer and that's worse."
        "I'll try," Nick said.
        "Good, now; I'm going home to sleep; you two have me
spinning." Doc said.
        "Sorry," LaCroix apologized.
        "I'm enjoying it; trust me," Doc said.  "Good day,"
        Doc displayed a smile with a slight bow walking up the
stairs and exited the club.  Nick glanced at LaCroix in results to
his test smiling then his cell phone rang, and he pulled it out from
his pocket, "Knight,"
        "Nick; I will not trade unless Molly is there." Richard said.
        "She's sick, the night could make it worse; you don't want
that do you?" Nick inquired.
        "That will be my concern," Richard answered.
        "I thought you said you loved her; not caring for her health
makes me wonder," Nick suggested.
        "Bring Molly and Allen tomorrow night, eleven o'clock in the
park by the CN Tower; no tricks or Ben dies, and so will Molly."
Richard demanded, hanging up.
        Nick placed his cell phone back into his pocket, "Damn,"
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix inquired, slightly scared.
        "Richard, demanding Allen and Molly," Nick told him.
        "Where's the meeting taking place?" LaCroix asked.
        Nick hesitated, "The Park near the CN Tower, eleven o'clock.
Stay very close to her."
        "No problem, where to now?" LaCroix inquired.
        Nick, glancing at his watch, "Paul should be at the
Forensics building, pick him up then the station and home, finally."
        "We'll be waiting," LaCroix replied.
        "Good," Nick replied yawning.  "Thanks for lunch, later."
        Nick gave his warm goodbye to LaCroix and exited the Raven. 
Scott entered from the backroom standing at the bar noticing
LaCroix's stern look and worried expression.
        "Lucien, what's wrong?" Scott asked.
        "Nicholas is meeting Richard tomorrow night for that trade,
which involves Molly and Allen." LaCroix told him, exhaling.
        "I see, where and the time?" Scott inquired.
        "The park near the CN Tower at eleven o'clock, why?" LaCroix
queried.
        "Curious," Scott replied.
        "All right; I'm heading home, better call first," LaCroix
said pulling out his cell phone and called Jamie.
        "Hello?" Jamie answered.
        "Hey darling, what can I get you on the way home?  Ask
Molly, if you would." LaCroix requested.
        "Hold on," Jamie suggested.  "Molly needs more honey for her
tea and a bag of chips; I would love some strawberry ice cream, but
most all, you."
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "Any time, all right love; I'll be
home soon.  How's Molly doing, any more spells?"
        "No, but she's got heartburn." Jamie told him.
        "Oh dear, see you soon." LaCroix replied hanging up.
        "What's so funny?" Scott asked.
        "Molly's craving chips and Jamie; strawberry ice cream,
also, Molly has heartburn." LaCroix shared with him.
        "The journey begins a new," Scott said.
        "Yes it does; you'll find out someday," LaCroix said.
        "Perhaps, safe journey home," Scott said.
        "Thank you Scott, goodnight," LaCroix said.
        LaCroix walked up the stairs outside and climbed into his
truck.  He started the engine driving away and stopped at the store
near the loft.  He picked up what Jamie told him and drove home
parking near the elevator.  He turned the engine off grabbing the bag
and climbed out.  As he locked his door; he saw Nick pulling in
parking next to him and turned his engine off.  He climbed out
joining LaCroix and spotted the items in the bag; laughed slightly. 
They stepped into the elevator riding up to the second floor and
stepped out.  There; they were greeted by the loving arms of their
wives and walked into the living room where a fast dinner was waiting
for them.  Jamie took the bag helping LaCroix put them away and Molly
embraced Nick tight.
        "What's that?" Molly asked.
        Nick sighed, "Our test for the morning."
        "Oh," Molly uttered hesitating.
        "What is it?" Nick questioned.
        "I'm a little nervous, no; I'm a lot…" Molly replied.
        "So am I, but we'll do it the same way as the last time;
don't worry; if not we'll stay trying unless you wish to stop," Nick
said.
        "Not unless you want to," Molly said.
        "I don't, but I'm more concerned for you," Nick told her.
        "I'm fine, really, let's enjoy and see where the road goes,"
Molly suggested.
        "Agreed, could you get me some water; I need to go," Nick
requested.
        "Sure, love you," Molly replied in his ear.
        "I'll go upstairs and put this on my nightstand for the
morning, change and eat." Nick said.
        "Dessert later," Molly said stroking his chest.
        "Oh yeah, be right back." Nick replied.
        Nick gave her a quick kiss walking up the stairs and into
their bedroom.  He placed the box on his nightstand walking into the
bathroom stripping down and faced the toilet urinating.  He flushed
it turning slightly washing his hands.  Nick strolled into the room
over to his dresser and removed a pair of lounge pants and a t-shirt;
got dressed.  He walked down the hall then the stairs and joined
Molly on the couch with LaCroix and Jamie at the other end.  Molly
handed Nick his sandwich and water, and they enjoyed a quiet meal.
        "Jamie, how's the ice cream?" LaCroix queried.
        "Heaven," Jamie mumbled.
        LaCroix laughed, "Good, Nicholas, are Paul and Carla still
coming here?"
        Nick belched quietly, "Excuse, no, they're staying home to
catch up."
        "I see," LaCroix said.
        "Thanks for dinner, but I'm tired so I will retire, sorry,"
Nick said stretching.
        "What about---uhm---dessert?" Molly whispered to Nick,
passing a hint.
        "Here?" Nick inquired, grinning.
        "No silly," Molly said, slapping his thigh.
        "Oh yeah, come on," Nick said.  "Goodnight, see you in the
morning."
        "Test results as well, we'll be waiting." LaCroix said.
        "You bet, night." Nick said standing up and extended his
hand to Molly.
        They slowly walked up the stairs walking down the hall and
entered their bedroom closing the door.  They strolled over to the
bed lying down and exhaled loudly.  Nick rolled onto his side gazing
upon Molly and her body; every inch.  Molly felt his eyes examining
her and smiled.
        "See something you want?" Molly inquired.
        "All of you," Nick answered.
        "Whoa," Molly said surprised.  "What are you doing?"
        "Picturing your belly at nine months," Nick said.
        "Will I still be pretty and sexy to you then?" Molly
questioned.
        "Oh yeah, it's very exciting." Nick said.
        Molly rolled over to face him, "How exciting?"
        "Hmm, does this help," Nick replied taking her hand to his
hardness.  "And more,"
        Molly gave him a good squeeze, "Love me,"
        "My pleasure," Nick said.
        Nick leaned over kissing her passionately; Molly untied and
moved his pants down stroking him.  She lay back as he carefully lay
on top of her slowly removing her panties.  She began breathing heavy
and erratic, 'Nick,' she whispered.  He carefully penetrated her,
deep inside and moved to her passion.  Nick felt her heat rising and
he moved a little faster, going deeper and kissed her hot breasts and
raised nipples.  Molly firmly stroked his back then his butt, pulling
him closer.  Nick moved faster, 'Molly, I can't hold…' he whispered. 
'Please, come with me, together, ah…' she said, 'Nick,' she moaned
louder.  'Ah---ah---Molly,' he moaned feeling his essence emerging,
surging leaving his body entering deep into Molly's.  They held each
other tight moaning and breathing heavy.  Nick moved once, and lay
along of her holding her body.
        "You okay?" Nick inquired.
        Molly breathing heavy, "Yeah, very intense,"
        "Yeah, sorry," Nick said.  "I should be more careful with
you."
        "Later, when I get bigger," Molly said.
        "Will it be safe to make love then?" Nick queried.
        "We can until the ninth month and six weeks after the baby's
born.  It adds up to about two months." Molly told him.
        "Two months," Nick sighed.
        "We have other ways to fix him, don't worry," Molly said
warmly.
        "I know, fun time," Nick replied.  "But now, its bathroom
and sleep time, come on,"
        "Ladies first," Molly said running in.
        "Always," Nick said loudly.
        They took turns using the bathroom cleaning up and crawled
into bed for a goodnight sleep dreaming of the possibilities.
        LaCroix and Jamie made their way upstairs, changed and
crawled under the covers, but Jamie noticed how distant LaCroix was;
looking off into space.
        "Lucien, what is it?" Jamie asked.
        LaCroix exhaled, "I'm concerned for Nicholas and Molly, if
the test says no."
        "I can understand that; our baby and Molly's symptoms,"
Jamie replied.
        "I know it will happen, but it will destroy him deeply; he
may not handle it." LaCroix said.
        "He will with you at his side," Jamie said.
        "I know it's just that…" LaCroix started.
        "This time you say it," Jamie told him.
        LaCroix looked into Jamie's eyes, "It's just that I love him
so much; I don't want him or Molly hurt."
        "That's what will help him and Molly get through if the test
says no," Jamie replied.
        "True, but…" LaCroix whispered.
        "Let's get some sleep, make a warm breakfast with tea for
them and we'll see okay," Jamie suggested.
        "All right, come on," LaCroix said.
        They snuggled under the covers holding each other, but
LaCroix was still concerned for Nick.
        ****
        The night hours quickly passed into early morning, sunlight
shined through the blinds and a light snow flurry outside.  Nick
slowly woke up seeing Molly sitting on the edge of the bed holding
the test in her hands and a slight sniff from her nose.  He crawled
over sitting next to her; saw the watery eyes and fear.  He lovingly
touched her hands and kissed her shoulder.
        "Honey?" Nick whispered.
        "I'm scared," Molly said.
        Nick inhaled, "Me too, but remember what we talked about,
okay,"
        "I do," Molly said.
        "That says it all, go on then my turn," Nick said.
        Molly opened the box removing the stick and walked into the
bathroom closing the door.  About fifteen minutes later, she walked
out sitting next to Nick.  He held her tight and kissed her
passionately.  Nick slowly stood up, walked into the bathroom and
closed the door.  He stood by the toilet urinating and flushed it. 
He moved slightly washing his hands then nervously picked up the
stick.  He glanced at it, exhaled and tears flowed from his eyes. 
Nick slowly opened the door and walked towards Molly.  She saw the
tears fearing the worst and took the stick from his hand.
        "Nick," Molly whispered.
        Nick exhaled glowing, "We're pregnant,"
        "What?" Molly replied stunned.
        "A baby, we're having a baby," Nick said, shouting happily.
        "Oh, Nick," Molly yelled.
        They embraced, cried and shouted happily.  Nick's dream, his
long dream, has been fulfilled just like LaCroix's.  LaCroix and
Jamie came running in from hearing all the yelling.  LaCroix saw
Nick's eyes and was scared to ask.
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix queried.
        Nick approached, teary-eyed, "We're pregnant,"
        "Oh, Nicholas," LaCroix said embracing his son then Molly.
        Jamie did the same and held LaCroix, "Fantastic,"
        "A baby," Nick repeated.
        "I'm ecstatic, you two finish up and we'll have breakfast
waiting.  A tremendous celebration is in order." LaCroix said.
        LaCroix and Jamie quickly left them to clean up and they
prepared a celebration breakfast.
        "Nick," Molly said, holding onto the bed post.
        "Uh-oh," Nick said, grabbing the bottle from her nightstand.
        Nick ran to her, catching her as she sat down slightly
unconscious and held it under her nose.  Molly inhaled the horrid
scent jumping slightly and moved away.
        "It's okay," Nick said.
        "Please, enough," Molly replied.
        Nick exhaled, "I'm sorry, Doc's orders, how do you feel?"
        "Better, for the moment," Molly said.  "My God, Nick, a baby,"
        "Yes, a baby; our baby; I'm so thrilled, it's…" Nick said.
        "I know," Molly replied.  "Let's shower and eat."
        "Deal, lead on," Nick said.
        They joyfully walked into the bathroom, showered and
celebrated their news of their addition.  Downstairs; LaCroix stood
by the chair with Jamie walking around him and saw his face.
        "Lucien," Jamie spoke.
        "I'm so numb; no words, our blessings are so increditable…"
LaCroix said.
        "Oh, Lucien, you two have worked and hungered for this; God
saw and felt that; he brought you two back for a second change and
look what you two have done to show your love and faith to him."
Jamie expressed lovingly.
        "I know, but my son is now a father," LaCroix started.  "Uh-
oh,"
        "What?" Jamie said, waving to Nick and Molly coming down the
stairs.
        Nick approached him and stood by his ear, "A grandfather,"
        "Nicholas," LaCroix replied smiling.
        "What?" Nick said.  "Daddy,"
        "Enough, Daddy," LaCroix told him.
        "I love that word," Nick said proudly.
        Molly stepped in between, "Nick, how about the word, 'Mommy'?"
        Nick embraced her, "The best word next to Daddy; tie score,"
        "True, I'm hungry," Molly replied.
        "Let's eat, sadly; I have to work.  When this case is done;
we'll go clothes shopping and celebrate." Nick said.
        "Great, come on," Molly said agreeing.
        "We have tea and hot muffins." Jamie said leading the way
with LaCroix at her side.
        As they walked towards the table, a knock echoed from the
door and Nick walked over to answer it.  He opened the door and Paul
saw the glow on his face and the joy in his eyes.  Paul embraced him
and Allen jumped out doing the same.  They entered the loft following
Nick to the table and sat down.
        "It's official?" Paul inquired.
        Nick smiled, "Yes, we're pregnant."
        "Fantastic," Paul shouted.
        "I'm thrilled," Allen replied.
        "A very legal party," Paul suggested.
        Nick laughed, "Thanks, guys, and we will, but we need to
close this case first, let's go; Lucien, follow us out."
        "All right," LaCroix said.
        "I'll see you later okay, love you and thank you for making
me the happiest man in the world." Nick said kissing her gently.
        "Same here, but woman, love you tons," Molly said returning
same gesture.  "Becareful please,"
        "I will," Nick said.  "Lucien, let's go,"
        They stood up exiting the loft riding down in the elevator
and outside to the car.  They stood by the caddy; Allen in his truck
and Paul waited inside the car.  LaCroix sensed fear emanating from
Nick and stood directly in front of him.
        "Nicholas?" LaCroix inquired.
        "I'm still numb; a baby, me; us," Nick said.
        LaCroix exhaled, "I'm thrilled for you; for us,"
        "I need you to stay close; real close to Molly, if anything
should…" Nick started.
        "Nothing will," LaCroix said cutting him off.
        "Lucien, it's the job," Nick replied.  "Please,"
        "I will, see you later." LaCroix said firmly.  "God speed,"
        "Thank you," Nick replied hugging LaCroix.
        "Anytime, do becareful," LaCroix told him.
        Nick took his leave of LaCroix climbing into the car and
started the engine.  He backed up driving, merging into traffic and
headed for the station.  He parked along the left side of the
building turning the engine off and they climbed out.  They walked up
the stairs into the building and saw Reese with Allen then everyone
applauded Nick for his wonderful new addition that Allen happily told
them.  Nick took a slight bow, smiling and approached them.
        "Allen, you couldn't wait," Nick said.
        "Nope, sorry," Allen humbled himself before Nick.
        "It's okay," Nick sighed.
        Reese cleared his throat, "We're all thrilled for you, but
we need to end this tonight to enjoy the wonderful gifts of life;
Allen's office now."
        They followed Reese to Allen's office entering, surrounding
the desk and Paul closed the door.  A few moments passed; Lisa
entered the office and the shock on Nick's face was evident.
        "Whoa, very close; I'm impressed." Nick said.
        "Thank you, you said Molly was sick, with what?" Lisa asked.
        Nick grinned widely, "She's pregnant."
        "Wonderful, I'm thrilled," Lisa said.
        "Thanks," Nick said.
        "All right kids, let's plan this out." Reese replied.
        They gathered around the desk planning the set up and the
take down of Richard and his crime towards the city.
        ****
        At LaCroix's loft; they had finished up cleaning after
breakfast and the ladies had retired upstairs to rest.  He strolled
into the living room when a knock came from the door and it opened
with Scott entering carrying a dozen roses.  LaCroix smirked slightly
and exhaled folding his arms across his chest.
        "Scott, you shouldn't have," LaCroix said joking.
        "Nicholas called on his way to the station; these are for
Molly for when she wakes up." Scott explained.
        "Beautiful vase, place them on the table; I'll make sure she
gets them." LaCroix replied.  "How did you get here; it's daylight?"
        "Tunnels don't worry, there heavily guarded." Scott
answered.  "It's official, Nicholas and Molly?"
        "Yes, we're celebrating tomorrow night after they close this
case.  Tonight is my main concern." LaCroix replied.
        "He'll be fine." Scott said.
        "Not here, Molly doesn't know." LaCroix told him.
        "Know what Lucien; is Nick hurt?" Molly asked scared.
        "No, he's fine, but he had those delivered for you." LaCroix
said, trying to save the moment.
        "Oh, how sweet," Molly commented with tears.
        "Thank you, Scott," LaCroix said.
        "Anytime," Scott said slowly leaving the loft.
        "Molly, would like some tea?" LaCroix queried.
        "Yes, that sounds…" Molly started, holding her stomach.
        "What is it?" LaCroix asked.
        "I suddenly feel, uh-oh," Molly said feeling ill.
        "Let's go, come on," LaCroix said taking Molly to the spare
bathroom.
        LaCroix dampened a towel then Molly threw up and he sat by
her side.  Molly sat back on the edge of the tub and LaCroix rubbed
her forehead.  Jamie came down the stairs hearing LaCroix comforting
Molly and stood in the doorway.
        "Honey," Jamie spoke concerned.
        "Jamie, you all right?" LaCroix inquired.
        "Yes; Molly," Jamie replied.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Afternoon sickness, call Nicholas,"
        "Oh my, all right," Jamie said.
        Jamie walked over to the table picking up the receiver and
quickly dialed Nick's cell phone.
        They were finalizing the set up and teasing Nick about
fatherhood, diapers, feedings, crying and the wooden bottom shoes. 
Nick's cell phone rang pulling it from his pocket, "Knight,"
        "Hey, Nicholas," Jamie said.
        "Jamie, what's wrong?" Nick asked as the room grew silent.
        "No, heavens no, afternoon sickness," Jamie said laughing.
        "Oh, thanks Jamie; I'm on my way." Nick said hanging up.
        Paul saw the grin, "Nick?"
        "Afternoon sickness, why don't you hang at my loft until its
time; this way, if he's watching, he'll see you as Molly at home and
you guys visiting.  I'll see Molly and comfort her." Nick suggested.
        "Cool, I'll bring some food." Paul added.
        "Good, let's go." Nick said.  "Lisa, or Molly, take my hand
and use this hanky to cover your face; you're pregnant."
        "Great," Lisa sighed.
        "Lead on Paul," Nick replied.
        "I'll call Carla and tell her on the way." Paul said,
walking them out with Allen in tow as well.
        They climbed into the caddy while Allen took his truck and
they started their engines.  They quickly drove to the loft parking
near the elevator and rode up to the third floor.  They stepped out
and scanned the area.
        "All right, fridge is full plus your stuff, Lisa, you go
upstairs and lay down; I'll be downstairs, call if any happens." Nick
said.
        "I'll be down later." Paul said.
        "All right," Nick said, stepping into the elevator and rode
down to the second floor stepping out. 
        Jamie was there to greet him and escorted him to the spare
bathroom.  LaCroix saw him, embracing him and left them alone.  Molly
leaned up against Nick's arm then his cell phone rang.
        "Knight," Nick spoke holding Molly.
        "Nicholas, Doctor Mason, how's Molly?" Doc asked.
        "The test said positive and she just threw up." Nick told him.
        Doc sighed, "Well, her test is back and she is pregnant, but…"
        "But what?" Nick inquired concerned.
        "It's good news; I hope; her cell count is much higher then
Jamie's, so it could mean more than one." Doc told him.
        Nick displayed shocked, "What?"
        "I won't know for sure until next month, but it looks like
twins, congratulations." Doc said.
        "Thanks Doc," Nick whispered, helping Molly out of the
bathroom.
        "Nick?" Molly inquired.  "Lucien,"
        LaCroix and Jamie came running and saw Nick as white as a
ghost.
        "Nicholas, what is it?" LaCroix asked.
        "Doc called," Nick replied.
        "And," Molly said.
        "The blood test says positive as well, but…" Nick started.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said louder.
        "Molly's cell count is very high," Nick briefed him.
        "Meaning?" LaCroix queried.
        "Oh my, God," Jamie whispered.
        "Nick," Molly said crying.
        "Twins," Nick said clearly.  "We'll know for sure next month
with an ultra sound, but its two babies."
        "Nick, two," Molly said leaping into his arms.
        They embraced and held each other in the double blessing. 
They slowly walked over and sat down on the couch in a daze; mainly
Nick.
        "Nick, you okay?" Molly inquired.
        "Very numb, you," Nick replied.
        "Scared, a little, but thrilled." Molly answered.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "You beat me this time."
        "Lucien," Jamie replied.
        "It's okay; he's joking; I know that, but you got married
first." Nick said.
        "True, I'm stunned, ecstatic and beyond words." LaCroix said.
        A slight knock echoed from the door with Paul and Allen
entering the loft and saw the expressions on their faces.  They
hesitated slightly cautiously approaching them and stood in fear. 
Nick stood up grinning and faced them.
        "Nick, we're scared; what's going on?" Paul asked.
        "Well, its official; she's pregnant." Nick started.
        "Awesome," Paul said.
        "And?" Allen inquired.
        Nick laughed slightly, "It's not official yet, but it looks
like twins."
        "What?" Paul shouted.
        "Twins," Allen said.
        "Yeah," Nick replied proudly.
        Paul exhaled, "Never mind animal; you beast."
        "Hey," Nick said.
        "Fantastic," Paul said.  "Time to go play on your computer,"
        "Give me a few," Nick requested.
        "For what; triplets," Allen said joking.
        "Hey," Molly said.
        "Sorry, see you upstairs," Paul replied.
        "I've got to go to work, sorry.  Molly, you okay?" Nick
inquired.
        Molly stood up to embrace him, "I'm fine, stunned, ecstatic,
but fine."
        "Lucien, a minute please; you go and rest; I'll be home
late, so I'll see you in the morning." Nick told her.
        "Our first night separated," Molly replied.
        "I know; we'll plan a few days home just the two; sorry, the
four of us." Nick said grinning.
        "Cute," Molly sighed.  "Let's go,"
        "Love you tons, go rest." Nick insisted.
        "Nicholas, over at the door," LaCroix suggested.
        Nick followed LaCroix to the door standing along side and
looked around to make sure they were alone.
        "Lucien; Molly's condition is high risk; it's her first
pregnancy, possibly two and her age.  You won't be able to reach me,
so please take care of our family." Nick requested.
        "Nicholas, have no fear; they will be safe and well cared
for." LaCroix told him.
        "Twins," Nick whispered.
        "Safe journey," LaCroix said warmly.
        "Thanks, Lucien, I'm…" Nick started.
        "Don't worry," LaCroix said.  "Go on,"
        "Okay," Nick said slowly leaving the loft.
        LaCroix returned to the women while Nick rode upward to the
third floor and stepped out into the living room.  Paul, Allen and
Lisa stood there applauding and cheering him on.  Nick proudly took a
bow and joined them.
        "Very funny people," Nick said.
        "Amazing, got married, what two months ago, fathered twins
and it's almost the New Year." Paul replied.
        "The best gifts ever," Nick said smiling.
        "Lucien too, but he did it on their wedding night." Allen
replied.
        "You're gonna need a house Nick," Lisa said.
        "I guess; we'll see; let's go over the plan before we leave;
no mistakes." Nick insisted.
        "Table people; coffee's waiting," Scott said stepping into
view.
        "Scott," Nick replied.
        "Yes," Scott answered.
        Nick approached, surprised to see him, "Why are you here?"
        "I'm here to help and protect." Scott told him.
        "Scott," Nick started.
        "Nicholas, its my mission now; to protect you and Lucien,
and the families.  With the two additions on the way; it's…" Scott
replied.
        "Three, Molly's pregnant with twins." Nick said.
        "Twins," Scott sighed stunned.  "Oh boy,"
        "I know," Nick said smiling.
        "Come on, eat and coffee before you go," Scott said, showing
him to the table.
        They sat for hours planning every detail of the set up to
bring Richard down and gone.  Nick lightly tapped the table and
finished his coffee.
        "All right, everyone knows their place; it's ten o'clock, so
Paul go and get ready.  We'll be behind you." Nick said.
        "Cool," Paul said.  "Let's go Scott,"
        "Scott," Nick replied.
        "Yes, its part of the job." Scott insisted.
        "Fine," Nick sighed.
        Paul and Scott quickly left the loft and headed for the park
at the CN Tower.  Nick, Allen and Lisa finished getting ready and
left the loft.  They climbed into the caddy; Allen in the back and
Lisa up front next to Nick.  Nick started the engine backing out and
slowly drove to the CN Tower parking along the curb of the park. 
Nick turned to face them and exhaled glancing into Lisa's eyes.
        "Okay, remember, play a very pregnant wife; fainting, etc."
Nick said.
        "Okay," Lisa said.
        "Stay close to me; Allen, let's go." Nick replied.
        "Lead on my man," Allen insisted.
        They slowly exited the car; Nick walked around helping Lisa
and gave the appearance she's Molly.  They held each other slowly
walking into the park then saw Richard standing by the oak tree
holding a gun and had Ben next to it.  Nick escorted Lisa to the
bench sitting down holding her stomach and moaned slightly.  Allen
sat down by her side and Nick faced Richard directly.
        "Molly, are you all right?" Richard inquired.
        Lisa shook her head, ' no,' and moaned a little leaning on
Allen.
        "I told you she wasn't feeling well," Nick said.
        "What's wrong?" Richard asked aiming the gun at Lisa.
        "She's pregnant." Nick told him.
        Richard inhaled, "No wonder she sick; you contaminated her;
we'll fix that later."
        "Let Ben go," Allen shouted.
        "Molly, come to me," Richard demanded.
        Lisa slowly stood up staggered towards him, and fainted
about two feet away.  Ben ran away as Richard ran to Lisa to help and
Nick pulled out his gun along with Allen and Paul then the other
officer's appeared from the dark.  Richard rolled her over seeing it
wasn't Molly, screamed out in anger and fired his gun at Nick.  Nick
fell to the ground like a stone and Lisa pulled out her gun from her
pocket shooting Richard in the chest twice.  Reese and the others ran
to Richard while Lisa with Paul and Allen behind her ran to Nick and
rolled him over.  Nick was shot in his lower left side; she pulled
his shirt out of his pants pulling it aside and removed her shirt
pressing it into the wound.  Allen gave Lisa his jacket, helping Paul
carry him to the car and they drove him to the hospital; lights
flashing and the siren blaring.  Paul drove while Allen and Lisa
cared for him.  Allen called Reese to keep him up to date.
        As Paul drove down to the lower level, a cruiser pulled up
behind and removed Scott from the backseat with a gunshot wound;
Allen jumped out yelling for help and grabbed a gurney.  Doctor Mason
and aides appeared from everywhere helping them place Nick on the
gurney and wheeled him in; they also wheeled Scott in as well.  Paul,
Allen and Lisa, terrified, waited in the hallway and prayed for their
friends.
        Doc ran to Nick's side removing the shirt and saw he was
only grazed then turned towards Scott.
        "Scott?" Doc inquired.
        Scott, groaning in pain, "It passed through me only grazing
him.  Is he all right?"
        "A few stitches, rest; yeah, he's fine.  What about you?"
Doc queried.
        "One bag should do it." Scott requested.
        "Stephen, clean him up and one bag quick.  Dennis, help me
with Nicholas; clean and stitch; I'll check on his friends." Doc
instructed.
        Doc quietly exited the emergency room and saw Paul, Allen
and a woman standing there terrified, "Hello gentlemen, who's this?"
        "Lisa Rivett; a police officer; she's okay," Paul said. 
"What about Nick and Scott?"
        "Scott and Nicholas only got grazed; a few stitches and
rest; they will be just fine." Doc said assuring them.
        "Thank God," Allen said.
        "Where's his family?" Doc asked.
        "We haven't told them yet.  We'll go there in a few; because
of Molly and Jamie's conditions; you know," Paul explained.
        "I understand, bring them later." Doc said.
        "We will; can we see them?" Allen queried.
        "Sure, but only a few minutes," Doc said firmly.
        "Okay," Paul whispered.
        They followed Doc into the room at the end of the hall and
they saw Scott to the left; Nick on the right.  Scott was sitting up
watching Nick and waited. They walked over to Nick and stood along
side and looked at him.  He looked so helpless and pale.  Paul
lightly touched his arm; Nick exhaled and slowly opened his eyes
seeing Paul and Allen.
        Nick inhaled, "Molly,"
        Paul smiled, "She fine, don't worry.  What about you Bud?"
        "Tired; Lisa," Nick whispered.
        "She's right here, Lisa, come here," Allen said.
        "Hey Nick," Lisa replied with tears in her eyes.
        "You okay?" Nick inquired.
        "Yeah, thanks to you, get some rest." Lisa said kissing his
forehead then walked away.
        "Richard?" Nick inquired.
        "Dead and gone; Lisa took him out after he shot you and
Scott." Paul told him.
        "Scott?" Nick asked softly.
        "Sleep now, he's fine; he's next to you." Allen said.
        "Nicholas, get some sleep; Molly and the others will be here
later." Doc ordered.
        Doc showed them to the door leaving Nick and Scott to sleep
and they stood in the hallway.
        "If I know Lucien; he's up, it's what three in the morning,"
Paul said.
        "Let's go see, but not the girl's yet," Allen replied. 
"Thanks Doc."
        "Anytime," Doc said.
        "Thanks Doc." Paul replied warmly.
        "Go on," Doc said.
        They quickly walked down the hall climbing into the caddy
and Paul started the engine.  They drove out of the garage heading
for the loft and parked near the elevator.  Paul turned the engine
off; they climbed out and rode up to the second floor.  They quietly
stepped out seeing LaCroix sleeping on the couch.  LaCroix heard the
door waking up seeing Paul and Allen, but Nick was missing.  He saw
the serious fearful look and felt something was terribly wrong.  His
eyes filled with tears standing up and faced them shaking all over.
        "Nicholas, where's Nicholas?" LaCroix asked.
        "He's fine, shh," Paul said.  "Sit down,"
        "Where is he?" LaCroix asked stronger.
        Paul exhaled, speaking softly, "There was a shoot out; Scott
and Nick were grazed by the flying bullets.  They're resting at the
hospital.  Nick got a few stitches; that's it.  Lisa basically saved
his ass, after Richard fired his gun; Lisa pulled out hers and shot
him dead."
        "Everyone is fine; Nicholas and Scott." LaCroix inquired.
        Allen smiled, "Yes, its routine that they stay for
observation; police policy."
        "Thank God," LaCroix whispered.
        "Let them sleep and we'll tell them later, in Molly's case
it could cause a miscarriage, so we have to be very careful." Paul
told them.
        "Heaven's yes," LaCroix said.
        "Tell me what?" Molly asked approaching them.
        "Oh shit," Allen whispered.
        "Allen," LaCroix said.
        "Sorry," Allen apologized.
        "It's all right, can you make some tea with honey and I'll
talk to Molly?" LaCroix requested.
        "Sure, let's go," Paul said, dragging Allen away.
        "Come here," LaCroix suggested, showing her to sit down.
        Molly sat down shaking, "Is it Nick?"
        "He's fine and well, but he's resting in the hospital,
police policy, so calm down; it's not good for you or the babies."
LaCroix said trying to comfort her.
        "What happened?" Molly asked.
        "They were undercover to stop Richard; Nick and Scott were
grazed by a bullet; he's got a few stitches that's all." LaCroix said.
        "I want to see him." Molly replied sadly.
        "We will, but you need to shower, eat and relax before you
see him; for his sake and the babies.  If you go in upset; he'll
never be able to handle the job because he's constantly thinking of
us and he could seriously get hurt." LaCroix expressed concerned.
        "Here's your tea and breakfast is almost ready." Paul said.
        "Thank you," LaCroix said.
        "Thanks," Molly whispered.
        "Do you want to wake Jamie?" Allen asked.
        LaCroix exhaled, "No; she'll be up soon."
        "Food's ready," Allen said.
        "Come on, let's feed you and the children," LaCroix said
smiling.
        "Lucien, what's going on?" Jamie asked walking over to join
him.
        "Hello, darling, how do you feel?" LaCroix asked.  "Go and
eat please."
        "All right," Molly said hesitating.
        "Lucien?" Jamie said firmer.
        "Nicholas and Scott were grazed by a bullet last night;
they're fine and resting at the hospital.  Let's eat, clean up and go
see them." LaCroix explained.
        They sat down eating a warm breakfast and discussed what
took place.  About an hour goes by; Jamie and Molly had showered and
dressed while the men cleaned up the kitchen.  Suddenly, the door
slid open with Nick and Scott entering as the door closed
automatically behind them.  Molly saw him running down the stairs and
into his arms holding him tight.  The others quickly walked over to
greet them and welcome them home.
        "How did you two get out?" LaCroix asked.
        "We were only grazed and besides; I'd rather rest at home."
Nick said.
        "Doctor Mason released us because we said we were leaving."
Scott told them.
        "Hey, guys, you okay?" Paul inquired.
        Nick smiled, "Yes, we're fine; I wanted to be home with my
family."
        "I'm so glad," Molly replied.
        "All right, you two rest; Allen and I will finish up the
file, pick up some stuff and quiet, legal party tonight." Paul said.
        "Great," Nick replied.
        Allen and Paul quickly left the loft and the others to rest
up for the party.  Molly lovingly escorted Nick upstairs to their
bedroom and closed the door.  Nick lied down as Molly removed his
shoes and lied down along side of him holding him.  Nick could hear
her sniffing her tears back and lightly touched her head then she
faced him.
        "What's wrong?" Nick asked.
        "Why didn't you tell me?" Molly questioned his motive.
        "Police stuff; I couldn't," Nick answered.
        "Not telling me makes me worry even more." Molly said.
        "I'm sorry, but it was an order; I couldn't.  I need you to
trust that." Nick said.
        "I do, completely; it's just that…" Molly started.
        "I know and your hormones are crazy and double." Nick replied.
        Molly giggled, "True,"
        "I have the whole week off to heal, so what can I do for you
now before everyone invades us?" Nick inquired.
        "Fantastic, can we go to our own loft?" Molly queried.
        "Yes," Nick answered quickly.
        "Good, and lock the doors," Molly suggested.
        Nick laughed, "If you wish,"
        "I do," Molly said.
        Molly carefully rolled over sitting on his knees gazing into
his glowing face.
        "You okay?" Nick inquired.
        "Almost," Molly said.  "Where are the stitches?"
        "Lower left side their bandaged up so don't worry its safe."
Nick replied rubbing her stomach.
        "I want you to love me until its time to party." Molly
requested.
        "I'll love you forever," Nick said proudly.
        "Show me, please," Molly requesting, caressing him.
        "Come here," Nick suggested.
        They laid in bed loving, caressing and making love to each
other for most of the day.
        LaCroix walked over to face Scott directly folding his arms
in front and stroked his dry lips.  Jamie saw the stern look and
stood along side of LaCroix.
        "Scott, I'm grateful that you and Nicholas are safe and
alive, but how did you dodge the bullet that you weren't killed?"
LaCroix questioned.
        "Do you remember what I am?" Scott softly asked.
        "Lucien," Jamie whispered.
        "What you are; is a good friend and I don't want to lose
you." LaCroix answered.
        "God, was on my side," Scott replied.
        "I'm thankful for that; care to help with the party?"
LaCroix queried.
        "Sure," Scott said.  "Jamie,"
        "Lucien, go and see if we have enough honey for Molly's
tea." Jamie requested.
        "Scott," Jamie spoke.
        "He has lost his memory of what I am." Scott said.
        "But, Nicholas regained it later; make sure he knows." Jamie
requested.
        "All right, let's go." Scott said escorting Jamie into the
kitchen.
        Meanwhile upstairs; Nick and Molly had finished showering
and changed for the party.  They sat down on the bed holding hands,
but Molly saw how distant Nick was.
        "Honey," Molly said.
        "As a surprise; your mother and Zach are coming tonight."
Nick told her.
        "Thank you, what a lovely thought," Molly said.  "And?"
        "And because of the case; I wasn't home much during our
great news, so how about during that week off; we go clothes shopping
for you and look at furniture." Nick suggested.
        "I love it." Molly answered.
        "Also, the possibility of a house; the loft may not hold the
four of us." Nick added.
        Molly began to cry, "Oh, Nick, are we ready for that?"
        "Yes, talk about it later; let's go help the others." Nick
said.
        "One thing first," Molly requested.
        "Again," Nick said laughing.
        Molly smiled, "Love too, but it must be a duplex; Lucien and
Jamie and their baby on one side and us on the other side."
        "Done," Nick agreed.  "Come on,"
        They slowly walked out of their room down the hall and saw
everyone standing in the living room; including Valerie and Zach. 
They strolled down the stairs and greeted them.
        "Mom; Zach, hi," Molly said happily.
        "Michael; Rose," Nick said embracing them.  "Where have you
two been?"
        "Traveling," Michael said.
        "Kathy, how are you feeling?" Nick queried.
        Kathy laughed, "Better, thanks,"
        "Good," Nick said.  "Okay, everyone gather around; Mom;
Zach, stand by Molly.  Lucien, you first,"
        "Well, things have grown a lot in this loft; for starters,
Jamie and I are expecting a child." LaCroix announced proudly.
        Everyone cheered and applauded, embracing them with love and
joy; lightly touching Jamie's stomach.
        "All right, Nicholas and Molly's turn; Nicholas," LaCroix
told them.
        "Molly," Nick whispered.
        "Nick and I are expecting as well, but…" Molly announced
with tears.
        Everyone applauded and embraced them as well, but Nick
whistled to calm them down, "But…"
        "Molly," Valerie said.
        "Doc says we might be having twins," Nick said happily.
        "Twins," Zach said stunned.
        "Twins," Valerie cried.
        They cried embracing Molly and Nick on their possible double
blessing and they ate and drank celebrating most of the evening.
        One by one, each couple left leaving the usual five alone
standing in the living room and looked around them.
        "Everyone; I will clean up; you go and rest; especially the
ladies." Scott said.
        "Good idea, give me a few with Lucien, okay," Nick replied.
        "Don't be long, okay," Molly seductively suggested.
        "I promise; warm it up for me," Nick said.
        "You betta," Molly said stroking his butt.
        "See you upstairs, darling," Jamie said kissing LaCroix
passionately.
        "Nicholas, may I see you a moment before you speak to
Lucien?" Scott requested.
        "Sure, excuse me," Nick said.
        Scott pulled Nick aside, speaking softly, "Lucien, has lost
his memory of vampires like you did in the beginning."
        "Great, but sadly they will return; in full force like mine
did." Nick said.  "Thanks Scott."
        Scott left to clean up while Nick returned to LaCroix's side
and sighed, "Lucien,"
        "Nicholas, we have been so blessed; I'm terrified to wake
up." LaCroix said.
        "Same here, the case is closed, Molly and I will return to
our loft tomorrow and I have a week off for this injury.  Molly and I
are thinking about buying a house, with the two babies the loft is
too small." Nick explained.
        "I agree; I was going to mention that to Jamie." LaCroix said.
        "Molly suggested a duplex; for all of us." Nick said.
        "What?" LaCroix asked surprised.
        "Yeah, Molly and Jamie are like sisters now, like we're
brothers and our children can play and grow up together," Nick
briefed him.
        "Oh my, God," LaCroix sighed.
        "What is it?" Nick asked.
        "We've become domestic," LaCroix said laughing.
        Nick smiled, "Yeah, but loving it."
        "True," LaCroix agreed.
        "Lucien, what do you remember about your past?" Nick asked.
        "Not much; we'll talk about that another time.  It's time to
love and live a little; the ladies await…" LaCroix said.
        They slowly climbed the stairs joining their wives for a
goodnight sleep and some time off to enjoy, celebrate and soak in the
news of their blessings growing from their love for each other.  The
case is closed and Nick will heal with Molly's love and his family
all around him.
        

END