©2004 Hush-a-bye By: Cheryl Pillsbury It was early winter, the air cold and crisp, the ground had a thin layer of white snow, and the wind blew with a slight chill. The golden sun slowly sat into the horizon while the moonlight shined clear across the city; like a crystal ball. Along the east side of the city, up in Nick's loft, Nick and Molly slowly rose from a deep sleep; regenerating from a traumatic time in their past. Nick slowly rolled over to see Molly smiling in her sleep; from a dream. He lay there, and glanced upon her glowing face. He gently leaned over, lightly touched her ruby lips with his finger. She slightly shook her head, and woke to his boyish grin. Nick tilted his head, and passionately kissed her. Molly ran one hand through his golden hair, the other, slowly ran down his back then gave him a squeeze upon his butt. Nick moved slightly from her touch, "Thank you for breakfast." Molly seductively licked her lips, tasting Nick's kiss, "You're welcome." Nick warmly moved her hair away from her eyes; he gently stroked her upper arm then her soft breast, "What's for desert?" Her nipples became raised and with a slight moan, "All of you, and more." Molly replied. Nick slowly lowered his hand downward, under the blanket. He stroked her thigh, he felt her, she was warm, "Whoa, my pleasure." Nick slowly loosened his pajama string on his pants, and caressed her warm body. He rolled in between her. She wrapped her legs around him; they kissed with every stroke Nick made. Molly moaned slightly, with each deep breath; as he held her tighter with each kiss. The heat of their affection, and bodies; intensified. The more motion he created; Molly moaned and breathed heavier. Nick felt his body pulsating with each stroke. Molly slowly stroked his back with her fingers; with each passionate kiss. Suddenly, Nick let out a slight groan; he felt the heat which caused him to hesitate. Molly held him tight, dug her fingertips into his upper back. The climax was overwhelming; they exhaled, and held on for the ride. Nick sniffed slightly, and Molly stroked the back of his head. He leaned up to gaze upon Molly. "What's wrong?" Molly asked winded. Nick grinned, licked his dry lip, "Nothing, just that I love you so much." Molly laughed lightly, "Oh honey, I---too---love you very much. It was wonderful." They slowly held and loved each other as they relaxed after a very intense love-making experience. However, in the other bedroom, Jamie laid in bed, gazing up at the ceiling. She looked over, and saw LaCroix sound asleep. He had red tinted sweat seeping from his forehead. Jamie quickly rose from the bed, ran to the fridge, and opened the door. She returned to the bed, sat along the side, and gently shook LaCroix. LaCroix struggled to rise; but couldn't. Jamie placed the bottle on the floor, jumped from the bed, and ran to Nick's door. Jamie banged on the door, with great fear, and Nick pulled the door open. Nick saw the fear; she grabbed him by his forearm, and pulled him into LaCroix's side. Nick stood, hesitated, sat down by his side, and picked up the bottle. He carefully slapped LaCroix upon his cheek; to arouse him. Nick carefully moved his bottom lip down, slowly poured a little blood into his mouth. LaCroix jerked slightly, took the blood in, and sat up on his elbows. Nick placed the bottle to his lips and tilted it. LaCroix drank and absorbed the essence of the blood. He placed his own hand upon the bottle, as well as Nick's fingers, and finished the bottle. Jamie ran into the bathroom, grabbed a towel, and sat down by LaCroix; on the bed, and handed Nick the towel. Nick gently patted the sweat from LaCroix's forehead; LaCroix took the towel, and wiped his mouth. Jamie lovingly placed her hands upon his shoulders; to comfort him. But mostly; herself. LaCroix slowly opened his eyes, and saw Nick sitting at his side, but felt Jamie's warm touch. He looked around; to secure his nerves. LaCroix placed the towel into his lap, and cleared his throat. He leaned towards Jamie, kissed her soft, but wet cheek then looked to Nick. "You okay?" Nick asked with great concern. LaCroix let out a sigh of relief, "Yes, thank you." "What happened?" LaCroix inquired. Nick grinned with ease, knowing LaCroix felt better. He crinkled his eyebrow slightly, "Apparently, you didn't feed enough, and you were slipping." LaCroix turned, and sat along the edge of the bed, "Did this happen to you?" "Yes and quite often." Nick answered. LaCroix carefully stretched his back, rolled his head around, "It's horrible." Nick snickered slightly, "Part of the process." "Great." LaCroix said, with slight anger, "We need to discuss this." LaCroix looked then glared into Nick's face, "Relax first, then we will." Nick said, with a warm slap to LaCroix's thigh. Molly quietly stepped in the doorway; arms wrapped around, and gazed into the room. She cleared her throat, "Nick, is everything okay?" she asked, in slight fear. Nick glanced over; saw Molly nervously standing there, with fear-filled eyes. He stood, walked over, and gently rubbed her arms. Nick turned slightly to see LaCroix, who gave Nick a slight wave of the hand, letting him know he could; that he was fine now. Nick grinned, placed his hands upon her shoulders, and escorted her back to their bedroom. Nick closed the door behind them. He showed her to the bed, and they sat down. Nick gently stroked her cheek, to reassure her; he's fine. Molly warmly placed a hand upon his thigh. "What happened?" Molly asked quietly. Nick hesitated, "Allergy reaction. He's fine." Molly sighed in relief, "Oh good; how about you?" He slowly looked up into Molly's soft brown eyes, smiled, "Calming down." Nick raised his hand to her soft cheek, "Where was I?" Molly saw the slight twinkle in his eyes, she smiled in return, and "We were heading for the shower." Nick seductively extended his hand, with a devilish grin, "Lead on." Molly slowly stood, and turned. Molly took him by the hand, he stood, and she walked him into the bathroom. Molly slid the shower door, set the water, and faced Nick. She reached over, placed her fingers upon his pajama string, and pulled it. Molly loosened them, and they slowly fell to the floor. She slipped out of her nightgown, and led him into the shower. Nick closed the door; he stepped very close to Molly, and wrapped his arms around her waist. She placed hers up and around his neck. Nick lowered his hands downward, and slightly lifted her upward. Molly gently wrapped her legs around his waist, kissed each other affectionately. He penetrated her and they began to move together, making love in the shower. LaCroix turned to face Jamie; she crawled across the bed, and embraced him warmly. Jamie took the bottle from his side, and placed it on the floor; by the nightstand. "Thank you." LaCroix said. Jamie sat very close, laid her leg across his lap, LaCroix slowly massaged her calf, "I love you so much." LaCroix lightly touched her soft cheek with his other hand, "As do I." Jamie slowly stroked his chest, "How do you feel?" "Getting better," LaCroix uttered softly. Jamie, practically sitting on his lap, asked shakily, "Do you need more?" LaCroix placed his hands upon her lower back, and pulled her closer, "All I need---or want---is you." Jamie warmly kissed him and stroked his back with her fingertips. LaCroix slowly became aroused, and Jamie felt his heat touching her, "Same here shower time." "Splendid, lead on," LaCroix agreed. Jamie carefully climbed off his lap, and stood directly in front of him. She extended her hands; palms up, and grinned warmly. LaCroix stood, placed his hands into hers, and they strolled into the bathroom. LaCroix closed the door, stood on the rug, and Jamie slid the door open. Jamie turned the water on, set it slightly hot, and turned to LaCroix; saw his smile with sparkling blue eyes. Jamie grinned, pulled the string on his pants, and they slid down to the floor. Jamie lightly licked her lips and looked heatedly at him. LaCroix blushed shyly, looked down, and saw his arousal, "You enjoy doing that." Jamie laughed slightly, "Oh yeah." LaCroix cleared his throat, "And, do you like what you see?" Jamie stepped closer, gave his chest a slight stroke then felt him on her thighs; very warm. He jumped a little, from the touch, "Definitely; very satisfying." LaCroix took her by the waist, stepped closer to her, and she felt him in between her thighs, "I see." "Yes, I do." Jamie said, in a slight stutter, "Come on." "Lead on." LaCroix willingly said to her. Jamie led LaCroix into the shower, Jamie slid the door shut, and he stood very close to her. LaCroix could feel her heart beating, her body getting hotter, and he felt fully aroused. The scent of her arousal made him warm. Jamie placed her arms around his neck. LaCroix lifted her upward, and stepped closer. As he penetrated her warm body, she jerked slightly by his motion. They kissed, and made love in the hot shower. Nick and Molly had made there way downstairs, sitting on the couch, and enjoying a hot cup of coffee. They snuggled in each others arms, and savored the moment. Nick reached up, and behind his head, picked up the remote, and turned the news on. They placed their mugs upon the table. Molly warmly stroked Nick's thigh, "Feeling better?" "Oh yeah," Molly answered. "Will Lucien be all right?" Nick gave Molly a slight squeeze upon her shoulder, "Yes, he's fine." he said, "What's your agenda today?" Molly moved slightly to face his blue eyes, "Work, and more work. I have some paintings coming in from Russia." Nick blinked his eyes in amazement, "Whoa. At this moment, I'll be at the station." Nick slightly moved and sat on the edge of the couch, "All right. I've got to go, lunch later?" Molly shyly lowered her head, "Maybe." she said, "Desert?" Nick slightly laughed, "Again?" Molly slid up close to his side, grinned, "Always room for more." "True. I'll try." Nick said, as he stood up. Molly followed closely behind, "Great, thanks. Love you." Nick leaned over, gave her a slight squeeze upon her lower back, "Love you, too." Molly slowly left Nick behind, and he took the mugs into the kitchen, and turned the pot off. Nick was about to leave when he saw LaCroix and Jamie walking down the stairs. Jamie reached up, kissed his ruby lips, and lightly slapped his ass. LaCroix jumped slightly, laughed, and Jamie left the loft; giggling. Nick strolled over to the chair, leaned his backside on it, with his arms folded, and displayed a huge devilish grin for LaCroix. LaCroix took notice in Nick's pose, he walked over with his hands in his pockets, grinned, "What's so amusing?" "How was the shower?" Nick asked, slightly laughing. LaCroix tried to compose himself, "Stimulating." Nick stood erect, "I'll bet." LaCroix stroked his lower lip, "And yours?" Nick blushed, wide grin, "Nice." LaCroix snickered quietly, "Indeed." Nick slowly walked around the chair, and carefully sat down upon the couch. LaCroix strolled to the chair, sat down, and gently crossed his legs. He felt the seriousness in the air. LaCroix folded his hands into his lap, "Okay, about last night." he started, "I forgot to feed before rest." Nick leaned towards LaCroix; to speak quietly, "Unusual for you; something wrong?" LaCroix slid back into the chair, sighed, "Not sure. Do you remember that beam of light?" Nick hesitated, thought back, "Joining Day." "Yes." LaCroix answered. "Yes, what about it?" Nick asked to help understand. LaCroix looked to Nick's eyes, and then away, and again, "Did you---see---anything?" Nick, shocked by his thought, leaned upon his thighs, folded his hands, "Like what?" LaCroix slowly stood, walked away from the chair, and stood by the table with his hands in his pockets. He became hesitant, "Not sure. It disturbs my senses. Almost like spirits around me." Nick felt his confusion, stood to face him directly, "Good ones, I hope." "Yes. Do you remember yours?" "Most of it," Nick whispered. Nick felt something from his words, a small pain. LaCroix moved slightly to face Nick, "Nicholas, I'm not sure if this is right time, but I kept Natalie's books at the Raven." he expressed with great caution. Nick's nerves became numb, his eyes tear-filled, "Natalie." "I have her journals, of what you two experienced with your journey. I thought they may help us." LaCroix suggested. Nick became very quiet, withdrawn, "Later, I'm not ready." LaCroix saw his pain; his sadness, "I understand. I too--- miss her---deeply." "Yes." Nick whispered. As LaCroix approached Nick; to comfort him, the front door slid open, and Paul came strutting in. He saw them standing very close to each other; felt he intruded upon a personal conversation. Paul cautiously strolled up to Nick, stood by his side, and grinned slightly, "What's wrong?" Nick stared at LaCroix for a brief moment then looked to Paul's face, "Hello. How are you?" Paul sensed a private talk, "Fine, good. Glad that you two are back. How was the time off?" Nick quietly cleared his throat, "Relaxing." Paul glanced over into LaCroix's direction, "Lucien." LaCroix looked upward at him, "Paul." "How are you doing?" Paul asked with slight concern. "I'm well." LaCroix replied. Paul stepped over to his side, slapped his upper arm, "Glad to hear It." he said, glancing back to Nick, "Where are the girl's?" "Working," Nick quickly answered. Paul snapped his fingers in disappointment, "Darn." Paul inhaled slightly, he smiled the scent of fresh brewed coffee, "I need some coffee, be right back." Nick patiently waited for Paul to leave, he then turned his attention to LaCroix, and the subject in hand, "LaCroix, about…" LaCroix quickly raised his hand for Nick to hold his words, "It's all right." Nick stepped closer to him, touching his side, leaned near his ear, "It's a good question, and we will finish it later. But always remember, have faith." LaCroix tilted his head, crinkled his brow in slight confusion, "Faith." Nick grinned slightly, "Yes. With faith, trust, and love; all things are possible." LaCroix warmly placed a hand upon Nick's upper back, "I see. I'll be at the Raven." Nick gave his nose a little scratch with his hand, "I'll come by later." LaCroix lovingly squeezed his shoulder, "Grand." Paul slowly returned and stood by Nick's side, "Take it easy." Nick returned the warm gesture to LaCroix's upper arm. LaCroix grinned, turned, and slowly walked out of the loft. He rode down in the elevator and outside. LaCroix carefully scanned his surroundings; he gazed upward to the dark sky; filled with stars, and took to flight. He flew quickly to the Raven. Back at the loft, Nick and Paul stood by the chair enjoying guy talk, when Nick's phone suddenly rang. They stopped, Nick received a slight jolt, and he walked over to the table. Nick picked up the receiver, cleared his throat, but glanced at Paul; in case. "Knight." Nick announced proudly. Nick stood in silence, listening to the other person; it was Captain Reese. "Hey, Nick, Paul there?" Nick waved Paul over, to join in, "Yeah, what's up?" Reese sighed angrily, "A real bad one, I'm afraid. A newborn baby, the body was discovered in the alley of 36th and 8th." Nick swallowed hard; his face became a pale white, "Damn." Reese sensed Nick's voice tone had changed; it was lower, "The lab guy's are there." he informed him, but added, "Is this a first for you?" Nick licked his dry, nervous lips, "A newborn, yes." Reese cleared his throat, spoke firmly to Nick, "Let Paul take charge, he's been there. Trust me." Paul heard the term, 'newborn,' and feared the worst. Nick sighed quietly, "All right, we're on our way." Nick shockingly hung up the phone, and stared into Paul's direction. Fear filled his body, but Paul tapped his arm to draw his attention. Nick painfully looked up into Paul's face, Paul saw his eyes; a few tears, "Nick." "A newborn body was found." Nick stuttered. Paul punched his hand with his fist, "Damn," "You're first." Paul inquired. Nick slowly rubbed his forearm in fear, "Yeah." Paul sensed his uneasiness; saw a slight shiver in his upper body. He placed his hand upon Nick's shoulder, and stroked is dry lips, "Before we leave, hang back, first." he suggested; but continued," If you throw up, it's normal. This will be very hard on us, but mainly for you." Nick looked to him, appeared relaxed, "All right." Paul still sensed his hesitation, "Stay close, but if you need to walk, do so." Nick expressed a sigh of relief, "I will." Paul quickly removed his hand, and clapped them together to get Nick to focus, "Let's go, I already turned the pot off." Nick stepped over to the table, removed his gun from the drawer, and placed it into his belt; in the back. They slowly left the loft, and the door closed automatically behind them. They rode down in the elevator, and outside to Nick's car. Nick unlocked the doors, they opened the doors; climbed in, and Nick started the engine. Nick carefully backed up, and quickly drove to the alley. As they approached the alley, they saw the cruiser's with blue lights flashing, yellow tapes surrounding the area, and the Forensics team; with Kathy, leading the way. Nick pulled up along the curb, turned the engine off, and they climbed out. Nick locked the doors, placed his keys into his pant pocket, and met Paul by the hood of the car. Paul spotted Kathy at the alley edge way, pointed her out to Nick, and they walked towards her. Kathy saw them approaching, and waited. They stood along side of her, but Nick stayed close to Paul with his fear slowly rising. Kathy turned slightly to face Paul, but could not help notice Nick's eyes, "Hey, guys." "What you got so far?" Paul asked softly. Kathy swallowed hard, "A dead newborn, in that box; in the middle of the alley." she informed them, painfully. "Jack's on the right, and Tony's on the left; checking the buildings." Nick nervously licked his lips, "How?" Kathy faced Nick directly, "The newborn is male, about twenty inches long, maybe eight pounds or so. The cord is still attached, and there are two bruises under its chin, that's it. My guess, he was strangled." "Any ideas?" Paul inquired more. "Not yet." Kathy answered, but saw Nick's face, slightly pale with dampness upon his forehead. "First time for you?" "Yeah," Nick answered softly. Kathy stepped away, reached down into her bag, and pulled out a white plastic bag. She turned and handed it to Nick. He took it with slight confusion. "You'll need that, and here are some gloves." Nick held the white bag up, "What's this?" Kathy glanced around her, stepped closer to him, "Puke bag, to be blunt. Don't worry; Tony did it first." "Thanks." Nick whispered. Paul reached up, and tugged his sleeve, "Okay partner, take a deep breathe, and relax." he said to calm him down, "Remember; leave, and use the bag." Nick gave his body a quick shake, "Let's go." Paul cautiously led the way with Nick very close to his heels. Paul approached the box first, looked inside, and closed his eyes in disgust. He stepped aside to let Nick see; to experience it, and deal with it quickly. Nick looked into the box, the horror and sickness filled his eyes; then his stomach. Inside the box, he saw a little white body with blue veins and lips seeping through its skin. The cord was wrapped around its neck, and the purple-yellowish bruises under his chin. All wrapped up in a pale yellow blanket. Nick stood there; frozen. Paul saw his face, very pale with a tint of green. Paul grabbed him by the arm; Nick walked quickly away; stood by the dumpster, and held his stomach tight. Paul grabbed his hand with the bag, and placed it closer to his mouth. Paul turned and gave him his back; for privacy. Suddenly, Nick felt his stomach turning, out of control surge, and covered his mouth with the bag. He vomited into the bag, gagging in the process. Paul turned to rub his back, and help him; for it was Nick's first experience. Nick moved the bag slightly to breathe in fresh air. He wiped his mouth upon his sleeve. Paul stood and watched him closely. Nick breathed in deep, and glanced over to Paul, "Feel better?" Nick licked his dry lips, cleared his throat, "That was horrible." Paul turned and leaned up against the dumpster with his back, "Yes, it is." Nick coughed, and then spit out a little vomit, "When?" Paul handed him a piece of candy from his pocket, cleared his throat, "Five years ago, Italy." he said briefly, "I was on a special case, back home, and there was a body in a barrel." he explained sadly. They stood in silence staring at the ground. Nick kicked a few stones away with his foot, "Damn it." he whispered. Paul took a few steps away, turned and faced him, "That's one word; the other words are really nasty. How do you feel? Think you're done?" Nick gave his stomach a little rub, fixed his clothes, "I'm okay." Paul hesitated a moment then tapped Nick's arm, "Beer later." Nick looked into Paul's eyes, smiled, "I'll need one." Paul leaned over, hugged him slightly upon his upper back, "Same here. Let's do our jab, and fry this bastard's ass." Nick surprised by his wording, "Done." "Give the bag to Kathy, and join me at the box." Paul replied. Paul strolled away as Nick walked up to Kathy. He carefully handed her the bag, she wrote his name on it; sealed it, and placed it with Tony's. Kathy gave him a quick exam, and he slowly walked back to Paul; at the box. They slowly knelt down, Paul gave him one of his gloves, and they gently examined the box then the surrounding area. They found nothing; so far, but suddenly, Jack's voice echoed from the right. Kathy heard it as well, with Nick and Paul, they ran into the building and found him; in shock, in a small room at the far end. When they witnessed the same view, they too, stood in shock and horror. A young girl lying on a bed; bottomless, blood everywhere, with a pair of scissors by her left leg. Kathy scanned the scene, slowly approached with her camera, and stood at the foot of the bed. She slowly began taking pictures of the scene. In between the girl's legs, the placenta and a partial piece of the cord rested on the sheet. The scissors, slightly opened; but bloody, by her left leg. Kathy finished photographing the scene, and returned to Nick's side. Kathy handed the camera to Jack; to hold. Kathy slightly sighed, "It looks like the mother. Jack called for the guys to come in for her." "Yes ma'am." Jack said, leaving the room; for the moment then returned. Nick exhaled angrily, "Man, this guy is going to fry." "Diddo," Paul agreed with him. Nick quickly pointed with his right hand, "You go there, and I'll look here." They cautiously strolled to there sides, scanned the area, and examined everything in view. Nick, nerves still numb, approached the side of the bed, and examined the young girl, her pose, and how she was left. She was lying on the bed with pillows surrounding her. One behind her head and one under each leg. She wore a powder-blue shirt with a denim blue-jean jacket, and had white socks on; blood soaked. Her shirt tucked under her breasts, long brown hair pulled back into a pony-tail; looking very innocent. Nick sadly looked away with a single tear rolling down his cheek; he saw a pair of latex gloves lying on the floor; by the bedpost. He carefully waved Jack and Kathy over, and pointed downward to what he had found. Jack took a picture, stepped away, and Kathy approached him carrying a plastic bag. Nick bent down, gently picked the gloves up, and placed them into the bag. Kathy sealed the bag, held it up for Paul to see, and strolled away. Nick continued to look around; Paul walked over to Nick's side, and joined him in his search. Nick noticed Paul's shadow, "Find anything?" Paul, frustrated, placed his hands upon his hips, "No." Nick looked around, waved Jack over to his direction, "Jack, seal this building off." "Okay." Jack answered with a slight salute. Kathy noticed they were done poking; she turned towards the doorway and asked Ryan and the others to remove the body, "Okay, guys, and take her to the lab. Ryan, bag the sheets for testing." "Yes ma'am." Ryan replied. Kathy moved to his left side, and tapped his forearm, "Kathy, and thanks." Ryan grinned, "Cool. Let's go guys." Nick gave Paul a little punch in his side, "Let's go." Kathy happened to catch Nick's exiting words. She approached them and held out a plastic bag in front of them, "Gloves guys, in the bag." As they were about to remove their gloves, Paul noticed a few drops of blood about six inches from Nick's shoes. Paul grabbed Nick's hand, and pointed downward. He showed Nick the trail of blood drops, "Nick, look," "Blood trail. Jack, bring the camera, and follow us out. Take picture's of the trail." Jack strolled up and stood by Paul, "Lead on." Nick and Paul carefully led the way with Jack between them. They closely scanned the floor; for blood, and Jack took pictures each time. They walked slowly for about thirty minutes; or more. They finally made it outside, and over to where the baby was discovered. They hesitated, and observed their surroundings, "Okay, make a line; Jack in the middle, and let's walk it out to the street." Paul let out a slight sigh, "Let's do it." They extended the line, and combed the alley. They scanned every stone, box, and trash. They watched the blood trail, and Jack took a picture each time. Kathy followed behind, but stayed away; to let them work. They were approximately two to three feet from the box, when Jack yelled for them to come into his location. They moved into his direction, and Jack pointed to what he found. He quickly took a picture, and Paul bent down, and picked up a cufflink; covered in blood. Nick stepped over to take a closer look as Paul rolled it around in the palm of his hand. "What do you think?" Paul questioned. Nick gently touched it with his fingers, "Maybe DV." "Yeah," Paul said, but continued, "My guess, father not pleased, and killed them both." Nick hesitated then reflected back to the young girl, "She's what; sixteen; seventeen, and he must be older." Paul's eyes widened in shock, "Or worse," Nick displayed confusion by his thought, "Worse." "Married," Paul replied. Nick slowly shook his head, "Agree." he mumbled, "Let's take that to Kathy, check in. Jack, develop the pictures fast; my desk." "No problem." Jack answered. Paul heard the tension in Nick's voice, "Let's go. Check in, then the Raven for food." Nick lifted his head, looked into Paul's eyes; lost and confused, "I need to see LaCroix." Paul laughed slightly, slap to his back, "I thought so." "What?" Nick asked quietly. Paul tugged him at his sleeve, "Come on, in the car." Nick willingly followed Paul out of the alley, and to the caddy. Nick stood along the driver's side, unlocked the doors, they opened, and climbed into the car. They closed the doors, sat kitty- corner; to face each other. Nick stared into Paul's eyes to carefully listen to his words, "All right, why?" Paul grinned, cleared his throat slightly, "It's so nice to see a family, as close as, you and Lucien are." Nick shyly turned away, "I see." Paul gazed out the windshield, sighed, "I wish all families were like yours." Nick slightly tapped his thigh, turned to face the wheel, "Thanks. LaCroix---is very---unique." Paul turned to face his window, looking down to the floor, "So are you." Nick gave him a quick glance of surprise, snickered a little, "You, too." he replied, "Let's roll," Paul cleared his throat loudly, "Enough. I'm not kissing you." "Good. That's Molly's job." Nick agreed. Paul pulled away towards his window; for safety, "And Lucien's?" Nick fished for his keys, "I guess." They put their seat belts on, and sat comfortably. Nick started the engine, backed up slowly, and drove to the police station; to check in. Nick saw the station off to his left side; he carefully pulled up along the curbside, and parked the car. He turned the engine off, opened the doors, and climbed out. They closed them, Nick locked the doors, and they walked up the stairs; inside the station. They slowly strolled in, down to Nick's desk; Paul pulled up a chair, and sat down. Nick switched the computer on, and waited. Paul pulled out his notebook, and helped Nick fill the file with what they had so far. Reese saw them through his office window. He noticed how tense they were, walked out of his office, and strolled over to Nick's desk; stood along Paul's side. "Nick." he said to draw his attention. "Yeah." Nick answered quietly. Reese let out a slight sigh, "This was your first, wasn't it." Nick tilted sideways, more towards the computer, "Yeah, it was." Reese nervously rubbed his face, "Do you want off this case?" Nick jerked his head towards Reese, looked into his eyes, "I'll be okay." Reese sensed his willingness to stay, and face it to the end, "All right. Fill me in." Nick quickly turned, and buried his eyes into the screen, Paul observed his mind, but mostly; his silence. Paul leaned back into his chair, looked up at Reese's stressful face, "A newborn was discovered in a box, in the middle of the alley. Jack discovered the mother's body on a mattress inside the warehouse. She was about sixteen or so, maybe." Reese, frustrated, placed his hands upon his lips, sighed, "Great." Nick leaned back, a touch, "and we found a blood trail with a single cufflink; with DV on it." "DV," Reese repeated. "Yeah. Kathy has everything at the lab." Paul informed him. "She was not alone; someone delivered that baby, and left them to die." Nick said strongly, tapping a pencil upon his desk. "What a slime ball." Reese uttered, "Okay, keep filling in the file, and keep me posted." "Sure thing," Paul agreed, leaning upon Nick's desk. Reese nodded his head in silence, slowly turned about, and returned to his office. Nick entered the last note into the file, shut the computer down, and leaned upon his elbows with his face in the palm of his hands. He then leaned back into his chair, stared up at the ceiling, and suddenly tossed the pencil upward; it stuck into the tile. Paul looked up, and saw several pencils stuck in the tile. He then looked to Nick, and he to Paul, "Old habit." Paul sighed, "Okay, I'm starving, time for food." "Good. What's on the menu?" Nick inquired. Paul hesitated at first, too early for the Raven, "How about pizza for now, Raven later." Nick laughed, stress became less, "Pizza, soon you will look like one." Paul stood up, aside from his chair, and clapped his hands. Paul grinned proudly, "Cool." Nick let out a little belly laugh, "Funny. Come on, then the lab." Paul grabbed his arm, and dragged him out of the station then outside. They walked down the stairs, and over to Nick's car. Nick unlocked the doors, they opened, and they climbed in. They closed the doors; he started the engine, and pulled away from the curb. Nick casually drove through the city, to Charlie's pizza place. He noticed an empty parking space out front, and carefully rolled in. Nick parked, turned the engine off, and they stepped out of the car; closed their doors. Nick locked them, and they strolled upon the sidewalk then inside the restaurant. A waiter approached them, and politely showed them to the booth, in the back; in the corner. Paul quickly ordered for them, waiter left, and they slid into their seats. The waiter came by their booth, and left their drinks then left once again. Nick moved his hand to pick up his drink, and gulped it about twice. He placed it back down on the table, sighed then a slight burp, "Excuse me." Paul snickered, "Feel better?" "A little," Nick answered. Paul leaned upon the table with his fingers clasped together, "It's rough the first two days then it gets better; but never easy." "I agree." Nick mumbled, sipping his drink. Paul felt enough said, and decided to change the subject, "Are you planning another trip with Molly?" Nick seems to have relaxed, "Just a weekend trip." "Cool. How's Lucien and Jamie?" he inquired about their welfare. Nick laughed slightly, "Still newlyweds." Paul rubbed his face in surprise; but not really, "Whoa." Nick just glanced at him, "They're fine." Paul cleared his throat to warn him, "Cool. Believe it or not, Carla and I are going skiing." Nick raised his index finger to Paul's chest, "No broken bones." "I'll try." Paul mumbled, "Where are you going?" Nick leaned forward, hugging his glass, "Just rent a cabin in the mountains, and hide." "Cool." Paul replied, understanding his plan. The waiter quietly appeared with their food, placed it into the middle of the table, with plates and napkins; then left. They both dug in, and began to enjoy their lunch. "This pizza is great." Paul said, happily. "I second the motion." Nick said holding his water glass up. Paul copied his gesture, clangs them together, and finished the pizza within thirty minutes or so. They took the last bite; the last drop of water, Nick's cell phone rang. Nick quickly wiped his hands and mouth with a napkin, reached into his pant pocket, and pulled his phone out. He pushed the button, "Knight," A soft familiar voice came across, "Its Kathy, stop by." Nick glanced over to Paul, "We were planning on it, after lunch. Be there in ten." "Thanks, later." Kathy said, hanging up. Nick hung up his cell phone, placed it back into his pocket, and pulled out some money for his share. Paul observed every move he made, leaned back into the booth, hesitated for the moment, "What's up?" "Kathy," Nick mentioned her name. Paul felt something has changed, took place, "Let's roll." They quickly slid out, stood, and walked out of the restaurant. They walked over to the car, Nick unlocked the doors, they opened, and they climbed in. They closed the doors; Nick started the engine, carefully backed out, and drove back into the heart of the city; to the Forensics building. Nick parked the car along the curb. He turned the engine off; they opened the doors, and stepped out. They closed the doors, Nick locked them, and they strolled up the stairs; inside the lab. They saw Kathy hunched over the slab where the baby laid; covered with a white sheet. Nick couldn't help but notice the sadness, and anger in her eyes. Paul and Nick walked up, and stood on each side of her. Kathy glanced over to her right, saw Paul's shadow, and then saw Nick at her left. Kathy stood up straight, "Hey, guys. Here's your copy." Kathy slowly handed it to him; he took it, "Go ahead." Kathy took in a deep breath, exhaled, "The girl, Tara Wilmont, five-foot-six, one hundred, and thirty pounds or so. She had brown hair, and brown eyes. Tara was sixteen years old, and died shortly after childbirth." "How?" Paul asked quietly. Kathy swallowed slightly hard, Nick felt the tension, "When the baby's head was out, the person pulled the baby out of her; causing her to hemorrhage, and the baby died from the forced delivery, and drowning." Paul and Kathy quietly finished talking, but Nick felt slightly confused, he tapped Kathy's forearm to redraw her attention, "Drowning?" Kathy slowly turned her head to face him directly, "Yeah, as the baby passes through the birth canal, the fluid is forced out of its lungs to breathe; to cry. Remember that delivery you did way back?" "Damn," Nick whispered. Kathy turned slightly, touched his forearm, "Nick, where it was you're first time, its tradition for you to name him." Nick looked at her in shock, and horror. He quickly stepped away from the slab, glaring at Paul, "I can't." "It's tradition." Kathy expressed. Paul saw the horror, and fear build in his eyes, his body became stiff as a board, "Its okay," Paul walked over to Nick, stood by his side, and touched his back. Nick looked to him, tried to calm him down. "Later." Nick requested. Paul nodded and rubbed his back slightly. Paul quickly changed the subject; to change the atmosphere around Nick. "Okay, the blood on the bed, and the sheets, was it Tara's?" he questioned. Kathy stared at Nick, and he looked away then she gave Paul full attention. Kathy left Nick alone to compose himself again. "All right, yes the blood on the bed, and the sheets, was Tara's. But the blood spatter from the box to the cufflink is unknown. Possibly belongs to DV." Paul noticed Nick wasn't ready to continue, so he took control, "No name popped up?" "The print was too smudged, and only half, so I sent it to Allen to identify." she explained. Paul's face lit up by the sound of his friend's name, "How is Allen?" "Great." Kathy said, "Also her family, and address are in the files." "Thanks." Paul whispered. Nick's nerves were shot and very touchy, "Call us on the rest." He took in a few deep breaths' to calm those nerves down. Paul lightly touched Kathy's upper arm, and followed Nick outside. Paul slowly walked outside, and saw Nick standing at the bottom of the stairs. Paul cautiously walked down, and stood by his side. Nick strolled over to the car with Paul close behind, and Paul moved to his side. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened, and stepped in. They closed the doors; Nick started the engine then hesitated, staring out the windshield. Paul poked his arm, showed him the address, and Paul tossed the file into the backseat. Nick pulled away from the curb, and slowly drove to Tara's home. Paul felt the anger, sadness, his nerves have been shattered, and he's slowly loosing control; his grip on things. Paul feels Nick needs LaCroix for comfort, and security; to continue on. Paul kept a very close eye, and hand on Nick. Nick saw the driveway in the distance; he put his left directional on, and carefully drove in. He turned the engine off; they opened, and climbed out. When they closed the doors, Nick locked them, and walked up the path to the front door. Nick stood at the bottom step, Paul stepped up one, rang the door bell, and they waited patiently. Suddenly, a woman, tired and worn, appeared, looked through the window. She slowly opened the door, glanced at them, and opened the door; a crack. Paul flashed his badge, then Nick, "I'm Detective Paul Coletti, my partner, Detective Nick Knight; may we speak with you?" "What this about?" the woman asked in fear. Paul stepped closer, "Elizabeth Wilmont, is you're daughter's name Tara Wilmont?" Elizabeth, sadly fearing the news, "Yes," Paul cleared his throat, "Inside, please." She opened the door wider for them, "Its Beth, come in." Beth said quietly. "Thank you." Paul whispered, as they passed by her. Nick and Paul passed by her, into the house, and stood in the doorway; by the living room. Beth closed both doors, turned, and escorted them into the living room; by the couch. The couch stretched behind them, a coffee table in front of their knees. A fireplace in front with a chair off to the left side. A small table along side with a lamp, and a book. A small wooden stool sat by the chair. Plants in each corner, paintings along the walls, and a television to their right. Beth sat down in the chair while Nick and Paul rested upon the couch. Beth sadly looked up into their eyes, she saw the pain; more in Nick's eyes. "Has something happened to Tara?" Beth asked, with a slight whimper. Nick peeked at Paul's face, "There's never an easy way, we found your daughter this morning, and the baby." Beth gasped at the news, covered her lower face with her hands, and cried silently. Nick and Paul gave her a few moments to grief her loss. "Oh my, God," Beth sobbed quietly. Nick sighed slightly, looked to Beth, "We're terribly sorry, and if you're up to it; we need to ask a few questions." Beth took her tissue, wiped her eyes then blew her nose, "I'll try." "Thank you." Nick replied. Nick stood and walked around the coffee table, sat down on the small stool near Beth. He cleared his throat to draw her attention towards him. Nick folded his hands, placed an arm on each thigh, "Do you know who the father was?" Beth sniffed her tears back, "No, she never told me. She was staying at the Latham Home for teens." Nick unfolded his hands, rubbed his worn chin with his right hand, "All right, what about her friends?" Paul sensed Nick drifting away; he stood up, and moved over to Nick's side; to comfort him. Beth felt her sadness; her heart breaking, "Her room is down the hall, you may look there. I can't--- I need…" Paul stepped over, placed his warm left hand upon her shoulder, "It's all right. Take a few, and we'll look." "Thank you." Beth replied with a shaken touch to Paul's hand. Beth looked into Nick's eyes, she saw his pain and his frustration, "The baby; boy or girl?" Nick dampened his dry, cracked lips, lightly touched her hand, "It was a boy." Beth, cried harder, "Oh, God," Paul stepped back, placed his right hand on Nick's upper back, and he looked up into Paul's eyes. Paul silently tilted his head, showing Nick its time to explore Tara's room. Beth needs to be alone; for the moment. Nick slowly stood up, Paul led the way down the hall, and they saw Tara's name plate on her bedroom door. Paul slowly reached down, turned the doorknob, and opened the door. It slowly opened with a slight creek in the hinges. Nick nervously peeked in, and saw her room; slightly dusty, but untouched. To their right, a dresser ran along the wall with a lamp, and a small jewelry box. The wall had a huge bay window with flowers growing in gray pots. Directly in front of them, a twin size bed with a night stand; on the left side with a lamp and a book. Along the other wall, closest to Nick, a closet with a poster of a cat on it. Paul roamed the left side while Nick roamed the right. They each strolled their sides, and examined everything in sight. Paul stood by the closet, opened the door, and got a slight surprise. A mirror on the door, but no clothes in the closet; nothing. He closed the door, and continued on. Nick stood in front of the dresser, and gently opened each drawer. He opened the small drawer to his right, and a photograph was stuck in the back. Nick slowly reached in, grabbed the corner of it, and carefully pulled it out. He flipped it over, and saw Tara, with a man behind her, holding her by the wrist. Nick whistled slightly for Paul to come and look. "Any name on it?" Paul asked. Nick flipped the picture around once more, saw nothing then returned to their faces, "No. What do you think?" Paul stared at the photo, "Close to our age, with a sixteen year old girl; big no-no." "I agree." Nick sighed feeling frustrated, "Let's go show it to Beth." Paul and Nick scanned the room, to make sure nothing was out of place. They carefully left the room; Paul closed the door, and walked down the hall into the living room. They saw Beth still sitting in the chair; weltered and withdrawn. They quietly walked over to her, Nick sat down on the small stool and quietly cleared his throat to draw her attention; but mostly, calm his nerves; or trying to. "I'm truly sorry for your loss, but we found this picture. Do you know the man in the picture; behind Tara?" he questioned. Beth moved her weary head, looked at the picture, and sniffed, "That's Davy." Paul stood erect, "Davy," he thought loudly, "David." Beth turned to face Paul directly, "Yes. She dated him a few times then ended it when she found out he was married." "Do you know his job; where we can find him?" Nick asked. Beth gave Nick a quick stare, looked away then again, "I didn't tell you." Paul gently placed his left hand upon her shoulder, "It's all right, your upset." Beth carefully wiped her eyes then her nose, looked to Nick's face, "He's a cop; he drives a car." Nick's face filled with shock, his body became stiff and angry, "What?" he mumbled, reaching into his jacket pocket, and pulled out his business card, "Thank you Beth. Here's my card, call if you need or remember anything else." "We'll be in touch." Paul added. Nick slowly stood up to face Paul directly. Paul leaned over, squeezed her shoulder, "Thank you." Nick tugged his arm; a little hard, "Let's go," Paul heard the anger and frustration in his voice, and felt it in his grip. Paul followed Nick out of the house; to the outside, and walked over to the caddy. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened, and climbed in. They closed the doors, and Nick stared out the windshield; Paul watched very closely. Nick hands turned red, squeezing the wheel, "Unreal." "One of us," Paul added. Nick turned quickly, glared into Paul's face, "No way." he said firmly, "He's on his own, his own class; none." Paul cleared his throat to redirect Nick's focus to the case, and away from his anger and frustration, "Let's go to the Latham Home, and see what they have. Maybe, a last name," Nick ceased up his grip on the wheel, "If not, it's a long night with the computer." "Let's go." Paul said sitting back. Nick gave a silent nod of his head, started the engine. Before Nick could back up, his cell phone ran. He reached into his pant pocket, pulled his phone out, and pushed the button. "Knight," Nick announced proudly. A soft, soothing, but familiar voice came across the receiver causing Nick to smile slightly. "Ebourn," Molly said. Nick sighed, "Hey, what's up?" Molly laughed a little, "I got the rest of the day off, and I want to cook dinner; anything special?" Nick hesitated, rolled a few ideas, "Something with pasta." Molly's voice dropped a tone or two, softer, slightly seductive, "Alfredo." "Yeah," Nick whispered in return. "White wine." Molly replied, warmly. Nick's smile got a little wider, and Paul took notice, "Great." Molly giggled, "Desert---us." Nick blushed, lowered his head, and laughed slightly, "Perfect." "Love you." Molly whispered. "Love you, too." Nick warmly returned the feeling, "Make it around eight." "Okay, bye." Molly said happily. Nick hung up his cell phone, and returned to his pocket, and noticed Paul's grinning face. Paul laughed slightly, saw that look, and tried to hide it; but failed. "What?" Nick asked. "Molly." Paul said snickering. Nick gave him the serious look, crinkled an eyebrow, "Yeah." Paul cleared his throat, "Cool." Nick put the car in reverse, and backed out. Then in drive, and drove quickly to the other side of the city; to the Latham Home. The Latham House for Teens was built for runaway teens in trouble; pregnant girls or violence in the home. Nick drove through the green light, saw the building in the distance, and pulled up along the curb. He turned the engine off; they opened the doors, and stepped out. They closed them, and Nick locked the doors. They slowly walked up the stairs, and inside. The lobby was filled with chairs and couches. A few teens were sitting down, and a hand full was pregnant. Paul noticed a desk off to his right, and lightly tapped Nick's arm. They quietly strolled over to the desk; a woman looked up, and cleared her throat to address them properly. "Hello. My name is Mary. May I help you?" she asked politely. Nick flashed his badge, as well as Paul, "I'm Detective Knight, and he's Detective Coletti. May we speak with someone in charge?" Mary hesitated, "That would be Lisa Staples." she replied, "Hold a moment." "Thank you." Nick said quietly. Mary turned slightly, picked up her receiver, and dialed Lisa's office. She informed her they were here to see her. Mary hung up the phone, returned to Nick and Paul, "She'll be right down. You may wait in the lobby." Paul looked over into that direction then back to Mary, "Thank you." Paul and Nick casually strolled into the lobby, and waited. They observed the paintings that hung along the walls, and the teenager's that surrounded them. Nick could not help notice the young girl's that were pregnant; so young and innocent. Paul turned his head around to the last painting then noticed an older woman approaching him, black-grayish hair about fifty years old or so; very stern. She quickly approached and stood directly in front of them with her hands folded. "I'm Lisa Staples. I own this home." Lisa said proudly. They each displayed their badges for her, "I'm Detective Knight, and this is Detective Coletti. May we go somewhere more private?" Lisa felt something horrible had taken place, "Follow me." she requested, stopped at the desk, "Mary, hold all calls." "Yes ma'am." Mary answered. Lisa led them through a door, down the narrow corridor, and stopped at the elevator. She pushed the up button, the doors slowly slid open, and they stepped inside. Lisa leaned over, and pushed the button for the third floor. The elevator slowly rode to the third floor, the doors slid open, and they exited the elevator. Lisa led the way to the end, and opened the door to her office; the last one on the right. Lisa closed the door, walked over and around her desk; sat down. Paul pulled up a pair of chairs for him and Nick. They quietly sat down, and Lisa leaned forward to give them full attention to the matter at hand. Lisa looked towards Nick, "All right, what seems to be the problem?" Nick rested his chin upon his fingers of his right hand, "Did you have a Tara Wilmont living here?" Lisa appeared surprised, and a touch relieved, "Yes, did you find her?" Nick was about to answer, then hesitated. Paul jumped in, "Yes. Regretfully, we found her and the baby this morning." Lisa gasped, "Oh my, God," Paul leaned forward, arched his back, "I'm afraid so," he answered, "Can you tell us anything?" Lisa managed to compose herself, leaned and sat up straight, "She came to us when she was about four months pregnant. She told me the father was married, and a cop. Tara was afraid to go home, so we did family counseling, and she had plans to give the baby up for adoption." Nick sat up, cleared his throat, "His name." Paul turned to look at Nick; to see his condition. Lisa, surprised, "All she would say was Davy." "How about friends?" Nick inquired. "Very few. There not here today, but tomorrow afternoon, Randy will be here." Lisa expressed. Nick reached into his coat pocket, pulled out the photograph, and gently placed it upon her desk, "Here's a picture, do you know this guy?" Lisa picked up the picture with her left hand, and examined the gentleman for a few moments, "Well, it's not one of her friends; it might be Davy." Lisa handed the picture back to Nick, and he gave her a business card, "Thank you. Here's my card, call if you think of anything else." Lisa stood up, folded her arms in front, "I will; such a loss." Paul and Nick also stood, "I agree." Lisa sighed, "Do you remember the way out?" Nick looked to Paul, "Yes, thanks." Paul shook hands with Lisa, and followed Nick out of the office. Nick pushed the button, the doors slid open, and they walked into the elevator. The doors closed, Nick pushed the lobby button, and the elevator slowly rode down. The elevator hit the bottom, and it shook slightly; making Nick a little uneasy. The doors slid open, they walked out of the elevator; Nick nearly ran out. Paul tried to keep up with Nick. They quickly walked out of the building; outside, and over to Nick's car. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened them, and climbed in. They closed their door, Paul got cozy, but Nick hesitated behind the wheel. He glared out the window; in deep thought. Paul lightly tapped his arm to draw his attention to him. Paul snapped his fingers, "Hey, Buddy, where are you?" Nick blinked his blue eyes, leaned back into his seat, and let out a long, stressful sigh, "Not sure." "Is it this case?" Paul questioned. Nick looked to Paul then stared into his steering wheel, "Yeah. I have seen a lot of hate, sadness, and death; but nothing like this, a newborn." Paul noticed his nerves are just about shot, and gone. Paul turned slightly to face him, "It's the cruelest crime ever." Nick pulled his keys from his coat pocket, "True. All right, I need a beer, and LaCroix. Let's go to the Raven then home." Paul sensed it was time, his nerves needed to be comforted by someone he loves; LaCroix. "I'll get the bus there, after a beer." Nick reached for the mike, and handed it to Paul, "Done. Call in, and take us off the clock." "Done," Paul said, smiling, and took the mike. Nick put his keys into the ignition, and started the engine. Nick scanned his surroundings, carefully pulled away from the curb, and headed for the Raven to enjoy a beer; and LaCroix. Nick spotted the club, slowly pulled over, and drove along the curb. He turned the engine off; they opened the door, and climbed out. They closed them, Nick locked the doors, and they strolled along the sidewalk; up to the front door. Nick slowly opened the door, with a slight creek in the hinges, and they stood by the railing; as the door closed behind them. Blue lighting filled the room, a silver ball slowly rotated high above them; adding a glitter affect to the atmosphere, and heavy metal music vibrating in the background. Nick spotted LaCroix sitting at the bar, on a stool with his arms firmly; completely around Jamie. Scott, pacing, back and forth behind them; serving drinks. Nick and Paul turned, carefully walked down the stairs, and quietly approached LaCroix. Jamie caught a glimpse of Nick, and grinned. LaCroix grinned, thought it was for him until he saw the direction of her eyes. He looked over to his right, saw Nick, tired and withdrawn. LaCroix saw his troubled eyes, and slouched shoulders. LaCroix reached over with his right hand, and gently squeezed his upper left arm; he got no reaction. LaCroix turned slightly to face Nick, "Nicholas," "LaCroix," Nick replied with a slight stutter. "What brings you here?" LaCroix inquired. Nick placed his hands into his pockets, looked towards the floor then to LaCroix's comforting eyes, "A rough case, and two beers." LaCroix sensed his troubled soul, "Oh dear." he whispered, but continued, "Come on. Jamie, excuse me please." Jamie looked to LaCroix, "No problem." she said, kissing his nose. "Hi, Nicholas," Nick hesitated, "Hey," LaCroix stood up, wrapped his arm around Nick's weary shoulders. Nick grabbed his beer, and LaCroix escorted Nick into the backroom. They slowly sat down on the couch. They settled into the back cushions of the couch, Nick stared into his beer, and LaCroix felt the sadness; but mostly, anger emanating from his body. LaCroix observed Nick's stiffness, "What happened?" Nick sighed loudly, "We found the body's of a sixteen year girl, and her newborn." LaCroix stroked his lips and chin, leaned closer to Nick, "Oh dear," Nick sniffed a tear back, but LaCroix did see the few tears he shed. Nick turned to face LaCroix directly, "For the first time, I think---I threw up." "I see." LaCroix said quickly. Nick gulped his beer down, placed it between his thighs, "It was the first time---seeing that." LaCroix rested his head upon his hand, elbow into the cushion; crossed his legs. He felt the need to comfort; to ease his nerves, "Any clues?" "It was a cop." Nick said relaxing a little. LaCroix gasped at the sheer thought, "You're district." Nick turned to sit closer to him, "Yeah. He's married, and he did this." he said then looked to LaCroix's wisdom, "Why?" LaCroix clasped his fingers together, and felt a slight change in the subject before him. LaCroix sensed a personal discussion coming, "Why? I don't know. I have never understood that concept. If you're married, she should be it." "True." Nick said in agreement. LaCroix snickered slightly, "No answer to Adultery." Nick faced him eye-to-eye, "It's wrong." "Yes it is." LaCroix replied. "The baby." Nick suggested for an answer. LaCroix paused a moment, "Tragic loss, no excuse there." he said, "Some things may never have an answer." Nick rubbed his index finger along the rim of the glass, "True. I have been asked to name the baby; for the burial tomorrow." "Have you chosen one?" LaCroix inquired. Nick sighed slightly, "No. The baby----it was a boy." "Can I help?" LaCroix asked. Nick turned and sat up straight, placing the glass upon the table, "Pick a name with me." LaCroix felt the pain and the need for help. LaCroix scooted and sat on the edge of the couch. He gave him a little slap on his thigh, "All right." "Tomorrow, time to go home." Nick started, exhaled looking at his watch, "Molly made dinner for me." LaCroix stood with a slight laugh, "Wonderful. Call me in the morning." "I'll try, thank you." Nick said standing up and gave him a hug. Nick started to leave LaCroix's side, when LaCroix reached out and grabbed Nick's hand. Nick stopped, turned to face him, "One more thing. I need your help in buying a car." Nick laughed slightly; a laugh he needed, "You," LaCroix felt a little insulted, folded his arms, "I could fly." Nick stepped up to him, placed a hand on each upper arm, got very close to his face, "Buy the car." he strongly recommended; stepped back, "What do you want?" LaCroix peeked at Nick's eyes, looked away placing his fingers upon his lips, "One with a big trunk." Nick also laughed slightly, "Funny," "Later," LaCroix said, time to go he suggested. Nick left LaCroix in the backroom, walked through the doorway, and noticed Paul had left the club. Nick strolled up the stairs, and outside. He stood upon the sidewalk, inhaled the cool crisp air then exhaled. Nick pulled his keys out from his pant pocket, strolled over to the caddy, and unlocked the door. He opened the door, climbed in, and closed the door. Nick placed the key into the ignition, turned and started the engine. Nick observed his surroundings, pulled away from the curb, and slowly drove home; to Molly. Nick slowly turned into the alleyway, parked the caddy next to the elevator. He turned the engine off, removed his key, and climbed out. He closed the door, and locked the caddy up for the night. Nick stepped into the elevator, rode up to his loft, and entered into the living room. He slowly walked over to the table; by the couch. Nick emptied his pockets, and placed his gun into the small drawer then locked it. Nick stood by the counter, inhaled the warm scent of the Alfredo sauce, and saw the candles on the table burning; a soft white glow emanated from them. Nick then saw Molly; she stood by a chair wearing a white silk dress with a gold chain. She wore a soft; but subtle perfume, he inhaled a slight aroma, which aroused him; a touch. Flowers around the candles, and a bottle of white wine; chilling in a silver bucket. Nick stood stunned, unable to move, glared upon Molly, as she slowly walked up to him, "Wow." Molly slowly reached up, touched the top button; under his neck, "You like it?" Nick, feeling slightly hot; aroused, "Very much so," Molly gave a glowing smile, "Good, hungry." Nick reached over, wrapped his left arm around her waist, and the other, he stroked her hair then her upper back, "Starving," Molly warmly kissed Nick's dry lips then pushed away, "Come on." Molly wrapped herself around his body, and escorted him to his seat. Nick politely pulled out her chair, she sat down. He sat, very close to her, and they affectionately fed each other; enjoying the warm cooked meal. They proposed a silent toast with the wine, kissed each other, and slightly giggled from the atmosphere that surrounded them; pure love. After about a couple of hours, they slowly picked up the dishes, and brought them into the kitchen. Molly grabbed the wine, and Nick gently blew out the candles. They snuggled shoulder-to-shoulder, slowly walked up the stairs, and down the small hall. Molly led the way into their bedroom with Nick close behind. Nick placed the wine bottle down on his nightstand, and strolled into the bathroom while Molly got the bed ready; for the night. Nick hesitated a few moments then exited wearing his pajama pants. Nick took notice Molly wearing her powder-blue nighty, and crawled into bed with her. Molly turned to look at Nick's blue eyes, she noticed how silent he was; he was there, but not really. She sat up and close to his side, "What's wrong?" Nick glanced into her soft face, seeking comfort, "We found a dead sixteen year old girl and her newborn son." Molly warmly placed her hand upon Nick's cheek, and felt a tear, "Oh, Nick." Nick leaned back onto the headboard, let out a long sigh, "For the first time, that I can remember, I threw up---at the scene." Molly caringly placed her hand upon the calf of his right leg, and gently stroked it, "My poor guy." "The father is a possible married cop." Nick informed her. Molly gasped at the shocking thought, "That's very close and personal to you." "Yeah," Nick sighed. Molly gently lay across his legs and wrapped her arms around his waist; resting her head upon his waist, "I'm so sorry," Nick sat flat upon the bed, placed both hands upon her mid- back, and slowly massaged her muscles. Molly sensed Nick relaxing; calming down. She felt it was a good moment to change the subject; take his mind away from the tragic case. "Anything good?" Molly queried. Nick suddenly cracked a hint of a smile, "LaCroix's finally buying a car." Molly tilted her upper body upward to see Nick's smile, "Good. Anything I can do for you?" Nick jerked his head back an inch, looked into her eyes, "What do you have in mind?" Molly sat up on her heals, and smiled widely. Molly reached up with her hands; she took hold of the straps, and slowly pulled her nighty off. Molly straddled her warm body over him, "Dessert." "Oh yeah," Nick responded, lightly warm all over. Nick reached up to her waist, but she held his hands away. Nick slid down, and laid out straight on the bed. Molly placed his hands by his head, she scooted down, and gently pulled the string; she pulled his pajama pants completely off. Molly saw him fully aroused. She crawled back up to his face, firmly held his hands, and kissed him passionately. "Allow me." Molly said. Nick grinned, "Let me have it," Molly giggled; a touch, "No problem." Nick willingly left his hands by his head. Molly gently kissed him, his neck, licked and stroked his chest. Nick quietly moaned with each kiss, as he felt his body becoming warmer. Molly kissed her way down to his stomach; to his waist. Molly gave his stomach a gentle kiss, and a warm stroke. She felt his body move slightly and a louder moan from him. She crawled up, and kissed him. Nick could not hold back, he placed his hands around her waist. Molly carefully placed herself over his lower body until Nick penetrated her. They felt the heat; the passion, and the overwhelming flow of love. Molly slowly moved her body up and then down. Nick holding her as tight as possible with each stroke. Both sweating from the heat building. The more she moved; the more they felt the love surging. Finally, Nick let out a loud sigh of ecstasy, as well as Molly. She moved a little faster. Nick trying to hold Molly closer, he sweated more. Molly moved in small, but faster strokes until Nick felt his ultimate climax. Molly stayed; froze for a moment, sighed in a deep ecstasy, and laid upon Nick's chest. Nick wrapped his arms around, sighed and shook slightly. They hesitated, and lay still for a few moments to savor the love they just shared. Nick carefully pulled the blanket up, and over them with his foot. They slowly drifted off to sleep; in each others arms. Nick twitched as the heat of their passion slowly calmed down. The remaining night hours slowly passed into mid-morning. The sun rose into the blue sky, sun beamed through the blinds, shined upon the bed, and slowly rode up to Nick's glowing face, and boyish grin. It beamed into his eyelids, closed them tight, and moved his face away. He woke up, wiped the sleep from his eyes, and glanced over to Molly. Nick grinned warmly, stroked her soft cheek with his left hand, and she snuggled even closer to him. Nick felt the squeeze and moaned slightly. Molly rolled slightly, sighed happily, and opened her eyes to Nick's glowing boyish grin. She returned the smile, sat up slightly, and kissed him passionately. Nick returned the love to her. Molly leaned up, and against Nick's upper body, "Hi," "Hi," Nick replied. Molly displayed the playful pose with a grin, "How do you feel this morning?" Nick, bashful and shy, "Warm, you?" Molly looked straight into his eyes, "Content." Nick, slightly surprised, "Really." he said, "How about a weekend in the mountains, just the two of us?" Molly sat up straight, folded her hands, "I would love that; where?" Nick hesitated, paused a moment, "Someplace different, and new." Molly suddenly withdrew a little, "Okay. I'll look in my book, and pick one." Molly slowly turned and sat on the edge of the bed; Nick leaned up, and climbed out of the bed and sat by her side. Nick noticed she was quiet and withdrawn. He gently placed a hand upon her lower back, she twitched slightly. Molly sniffed slightly, Nick leaned towards her, "Something else is bothering you, what is it?" "I can't." Molly mumbled. Nick returned his hand to her lower back, stroked her upper arm, "I love you, good and bad. What is it?" "It's not easy." Molly said looking at Nick's serious, but worried face. Nick cleared his throat, "Just say it honey." "I'm----uhm----I'm…" Molly started. "Molly." Nick said to reassure her. Molly slowly raised her head, faced him with a few tears, "I'm a few days late." Nick, not realizing at the moment, "Late, for what?" Molly saw he was a little lost, "Uhm----my period, it's late." Nick suddenly widened his eyes, "Period, what?" Molly slowly closed her eyes, and lowered her head away. Nick suddenly thought what she was trying to explain. He warmly took her into his arms, cuddled her until she felt safe. Molly quickly pulled away, sat along the edge, and leaned up against the headboard. She looked to Nick's confused eyes, covered her lips with her hands. "Nick," she whispered. Nick sat there, glanced into her frightened eyes, "Honey, I love you, never be afraid to tell me anything." Molly nervously wiped her tears away, "I don't know for sure, I'm only a few days late." Nick carefully reached over, held her hand tight, and placed a hand upon her wet soft cheek, "If you are pregnant, that's wonderful. If not, it's still okay." Molly gasped at the sound of the word, "Really?" Nick moved an inch towards her, "Either way, its okay." he said to assure her, "I won't stop loving you. We use protection, but it's not a hundred percent solid." Molly lowered her tear-filled eyes, "Nick, I'm so sorry." Nick gently squeezed her hands for her to look at his eyes, "Honey, no apology needed. If WE are pregnant, love it. If WE are not pregnant, someday. Okay." Molly quickly moved closer to him, wrapped her arms around his neck, as Nick held her around the waist. "I love you so much. I will never doubt you again." she said. "Same here." Nick replied holding her tighter. Nick held her so tight, she exhaled from the squeeze. Nick let out a sigh, sniffed slightly, and leaned back to see her face, "Why not buy a test, and we will do it together, okay." Molly looked deep into his blue eyes, saw the love, contentment, and how truly honest he was. Molly sniffed, smiled, "Okay." Nick stretched across the bed, grabbed the few dollars off his nightstand, and sat back up. He placed the money into her hands; she looked directly at him, "Here, my treat." "All right; keep it between us, okay." Molly asked calmly. Nick thought quietly, "All right, but LaCroix knows me too well; I can't lie to him." "He's family, that's different." Molly said to agree. Nick smiled widely, "Deal." Molly held his hand as she stood up, and looked into his face, "Shower time." Nick stood up, scanned his body, gave Molly the, 'no way' look, "What are you trying to say?" Molly giggled, slapped his mid-section, "I need you to scrub my back." Nick laughed, "My pleasure." Nick slowly walked behind Molly into the bathroom, and he closed the door. Molly slid the shower door open, turned the water on, and fixed the temperature for them. Molly returned to Nick, pulled the string on his pants, they fell to the floor; around his ankles. Nick carefully stepped out; he reached down, and pulled her nighty up and over her head. He placed it behind him, on top of his pants. Molly extended her hand, Nick placed his into hers, and she led him into the shower. Nick slid the door closed and faced Molly. They scrubbed, caressed, kissed, and made love in the shower. Nick carefully reached down, turned the water off, and slid the door open. Molly stepped out first then Nick. Molly reached for the towel behind him, and they slowly dried each other off; with a few giggles and kisses along the way. Molly hung the towel back up, and Nick placed the clothes into the hamper. Nick opened the bathroom door; they strolled into the bedroom, and got dressed and groomed for the day. They each took a side, and made the bed. They scanned the room, met each other at the foot of the bed; held hands, and strolled out of the bedroom. They walked down the hall, down the stairs, and entered the kitchen. Molly made a hot pot of coffee while Nick grabbed his things and his gun. He strolled to the couch, sat down, and checked his gun. He placed it into his belt, and carefully sat back. Molly carefully approached him, handed him a mug of coffee, and she sat by his side. They quietly enjoyed their coffee. Molly took Nick's empty mug, and she placed them onto the table. She then leaned back and snuggled into his chest. Nick stroked her hair, and kissed the top of her head then grinned warmly. He silently thought about what she told him; the possibility of a child. Nick gently rubbed her upper arm, "Molly, let's go and eat." Molly sighed, "Some place fast, I have a lot of work to do." Nick raised his eyes in agreement, "Same here, okay." he said, and then thought, "Do you want me to go with you; to buy the test?" Molly sat up, turned to see his face, "No. I'll buy it, and we'll do it in the morning, together." Nick sat up close along side of her, "All right, just remember what we talked about." Molly gently stroked his cheek, "I will." she said kissing his dry lips, "Let's go." Nick smiled, stood up along with Molly, and they slowly exited the loft. They stepped into the elevator, the door closed slowly behind them, and they rode down to Nick's car. Nick walked Molly over to her side, unlocked, and opened her door. She carefully climbed in, and Nick closed her door. He strolled to his side, unlocked his door, and climbed in. Nick closed his door, they fixed their seatbelts, and he started the engine. He cautiously backed up, and drove quickly to the Golden Griddle for breakfast. In the heart of the city, Paul had just arrived at the station. He carefully stepped off the bus, walked up the stairs, inside, and strolled down to Nick's desk. Paul pulled out the chair, sat down and rolled into the desk. He turned the computer on; to warm it up, and pulled out his trusty notebook. Paul placed the notebook in front of him, and began dancing upon the keyboard. As he hit the keyboard, Nick's phone rang. Paul reached across, and picked up the receiver. Paul cleared his throat, "Coletti." There was a slight pause over the phone, "Hey, Paul, it's Michael." Paul leaned back, grinned, "Hey, Michael." "Where's Nick?" Michael inquired. Paul devilishly laughed; "Out with Molly, he'll be here soon." he answered then asked, "What's up?" A slight sigh echoed, "I haven't had a chance to talk to him since his ordeal." he expressed, "and I think I heard something about that baby you two found." Paul moved forward, leaned upon the desk, slightly concerned, "As soon as he pulls in, we'll be there." "Thanks." Michael replied quickly. "Later." Paul said as he hung up the phone, returned to the computer, and the file. Back at the Golden Griddle, Nick had paid for breakfast, and escorted Molly through the restaurant then outside. Nick walked her to the car, unlocked the door, and opened it. Molly stepped in, and Nick closed her door. He strolled to his side, unlocked the door, and opened his door. Nick stepped in, and closed the door. Nick started the engine, backed out, and slowly drove to the Gallery; for Molly. Nick approached the Gallery, pulled up along the curb, and parked the car. They slowly turned to face each other, and kissed passionately. Nick slowly leaned back, felt a little tension, "What's wrong?" Molly sighed with a grin, "I feel like a teenage girl in trouble." Nick suddenly sensed the reality of the situation, "Like the case I'm on." Molly looked up, "Sadly, yes." Nick lightly tapped her hand, "One big difference." "That is?" Molly asked in curiosity. Nick stared into her dark brown eyes, all serious, "Let's say we are, I will not leave you; nor kill you. I said we, because it affects us; both. I love you very much. The baby is from that love; whether it's now or later." Molly smiled warmly, "You are a rarity." Nick smiled widely, "I'm a man in love. I will take the responsibility for all of us; even if it's three. Any man who sheds or leaves is no man at all." Molly reached over, hugged, and squeezed him, "I love you." Nick returned the gesture, "I love you, don't worry." Molly moved back, looked into his eyes, and saw the love sparkle in his smile, "Thank you. Tell me every chance you get." she implied. "My pleasure. Lunch later?" Nick inquired. "Maybe. I'll call you." Molly said. Nick snickered a little, "Don't work too hard." Nick leaned to meet Molly; they kissed and embraced each other warmly. The heat of the kiss began to grow, as it intensified, Nick's cell phone rang, which deflated the heat. Nick moved back slightly, pulled his cell phone out from his jacket pocket, and cleared his throat, "Knight," A familiar voice came across, "Sorry, Buddy. Kendo Club, Michael called. I'll meet you there." Paul said quickly. "On my way, later." Nick replied quickly. Nick returned his phone to his pocket, and looked to Molly. They kissed each other. Molly opened her door, and climbed out. She closed the door, gave Nick a seductive look, and slowly walked away. He observed his surroundings, pulled away, and quickly drove to Michael's place; Cambridge Kendo Club. Nick saw the building off to his right, carefully pulled over, and parked along the curb. He turned the engine off, opened the door, and climbed out. Nick closed his door, locked it, and strolled up onto the sidewalk. He opened the door, and saw Paul leaning up against a pole with his arms folded. Nick quietly approached him, stood at his side, and glanced over to see what he was grinning at. They saw Michael and a woman doing Kendo moves; seductively. Nick bumped Paul's shoulder to draw his attention away from the scene. Paul turned, saw Nick out of the corner of his eye, "Hey, Buddy." he said to greet him, "How was breakfast?" Nick grinned, "Very good." Paul grinned wider, "Molly." Nick sensed his thought pattern, nudged him in the arm, "She's fine. What's going on?" Paul turned slightly to face Nick directly, "Michael called the station; looking for you. He thinks he heard something about the baby." he briefed him. Nick placed his hands into his pockets, "Cool." Nick turned his attention to Michael practicing his Kendo moves; very intense. He also noticed a woman by his side; but could not see her face. The moves were becoming a little seductive, but very romantic. "Is that?" Nick asked. "Rose." Paul replied quickly. They observed the moves; they saw Michael caressing her upper right thigh and kissed her warmly upon her neck. Nick leaned close to Paul's ear, "I don't think---that's a Kendo move." Paul snickered a little, "It's not. Should we stop them?" Nick displayed a devilish grin, "If they hit the floor, yell Bravo." Paul slapped his upper arm, "Cool." Nick and Paul stood by the pole, and observed closely for the perfect moment. Michael held Rose closer and closer; practicing Kendo moves. Michael gently placed his hand upon her mid-back, and leaned her back. He gently kissed her left breast, and saw Nick and Paul out the corner of his eye. Nick and Paul began to applaud for the show. Rose noticed the sudden hesitation; Michael helped her stand straight, and turned her around. She saw what Michael saw; they glanced at each other, and bowed proudly for the applause. Nick and Paul carefully approached them, applauding still; yelling Bravo. The men slowly shook hands; Nick and Paul gave Rose a slight kiss upon her blushing cheek, "Bravo, great show, what's next?" Michael scoffed, "Funny. Hey, guys." Michael reached out, gave Nick a slight hug, "I'm so glad you're back, and all right." Nick smiled, "Thanks. Hi, Rose." Rose warmly grinned with a slight chuckle, "Hi. He's told me so much about you and your recent ordeal." Nick crinkled his eyebrow in concern, "All good I hope." Rose laughed, "Oh yes, and the lake scene." Michael swallowed hard, Nick jerked his head back over to him, "You didn't." "Sorry." Michael mumbled. Paul cleared his throat, stepped up to Michael, to block Nick, "Lake Scene." Michael snickered, "He went swimming; butt naked, and got caught." Paul looked over to Nick, chuckled, "Love it, does Molly know?" Nick gave Paul the serious, 'don't go there' look, "No, not yet." "Awesome." Paul whispered with a plan developing. "Later." Nick said, trying to change the subject as they laughed slightly. Nick cleared his throat loudly, "Michael, you called about some information." Michael coughed, sensing they harassed him enough, "Oh yeah. I have a student, Joel Burton. We had a class yesterday, while I was cleaning up, he was on the cell phone talking to someone about that baby, and mentioned Tara." "How?" Paul asked, jumping in. "Like, he was there, and she was alive. Then went back to her, and she was gone." Michael replied. Nick sighed in confusion, "Did he mention the birth or death?" Michael paused a few, "It sounded like he mentioned her, and she was still pregnant." Paul pulled out his trusty notebook, "Do you have an address on him?" Michael's eyes, shined, "Yeah; Rose, would you mind?" "Be right back." Rose said kissing him upon his cheek. Rose slowly left his side, but he stared; watching her walk. Nick and Paul silently watched him glare and drool, as she slowly walked away. Paul looked away with a slight laugh. Nick reached up, slapped his stomach lightly. Michael turned, saw the looks, cleared his throat; and mind; "She works here---with me now." "What happened to the candle shop?" Paul asked. Michael sighed, "She sold it." Michael looked to Nick, "How's Molly?" Nick smiled widely, "Great." Michael clapped his hands together, "We need a guy's night soon." Nick relaxed a little, "True. We'll pick a night next week. This case is too crazy." "Done," Michael agreed, "How's Allen?" "I haven't seen him yet; he moved into the station with us." Nick briefed him. Michael grinned, "Great." "I think so." Paul said eagerly jumping in. They quietly continued their man talk, when Rose strolled up by Michael's side and lightly brushed his arm, "Here you go." "Thanks, Rose." Nick replied politely. Paul leaned over, turned Michael and Rose to face each other, "You two continue from where you left off." he suggested strongly, "We'll be at the station." Michael grabbed Rose by her waist, grinned devilishly, "Cool. Stay in touch." Michael returned to Rose; on the mat while Nick dragged Paul out of the Kendo Club. They walked over to the caddy. Nick unlocked the doors, and they opened their door. They climbed in, closed their door, and Nick started the engine. Nick observed the traffic, and pulled away from the curb. He drove quickly to the station; to work on the file, and add the new information. At the Raven, LaCroix rose first. He looked over, and saw Jamie sound asleep, and smiling warmly; dreaming. LaCroix slowly crawled out of bed, and strolled into the bathroom; closed the door. He slid the door open, turned the water on; fixed the temperature, and stripped down. LaCroix stepped out of his pants, climbed in, and closed the door. He began to clean and massage his body, and washed his hair. LaCroix reached down, turned the water off, and slid the door open. He carefully stepped out, grabbed a towel, and dried his entire body off. He quickly wrapped the towel around his waist, and exited the bathroom. Upon entering the bedroom, he saw Jamie kneeling on the bed; looking for him. LaCroix slowly approached, and stood along side of the bed. Jamie placed her hands upon his chest, and stomach; warmly massaging him. Jamie looked downward then up to his sparkling blue eyes. "Morning." LaCroix whispered. Jamie grinned, licked her dry lips, "Morning." LaCroix sensed something brewing in her mind, "Is there something wrong?" Jamie let out a little giggle, placed her hand upon his towel just under his belly button, "You're over dressed." LaCroix sensed her next move, "How's that?" Jamie took a move closer, "I can help." LaCroix rubbed his lips with his fingers, "Please do," Jamie got a firm grip on his towel, and tugged at it. The towel slowly fell to the floor, LaCroix stood, completely naked before her; blushing. Jamie stroked him, and rubbed his lower back. LaCroix jumped slightly from her embrace. She looked up at him as he grinned warmly, "Is that better?" LaCroix cleared his throat; Jamie smiled, "Much." "You are also---over dressed," Jamie smiled, "Care to help." LaCroix licked his lips, "Always." LaCroix slowly reached down, took hold of the edge of her nighty, and slowly lifted it up, and over her head. They both stared, and glared at each other. LaCroix placed a knee upon the bed, Jamie lay back, and he slowly crawled upon her. He kissed her leg, her hip, her stomach, and he nibbled upon her soft breasts. Jamie slowly moved to each kiss, and a slight moan with the heat of his tongue rubbing her breasts. Jamie slowly wrapped her legs around him as he came closer, and penetrated her. The closer he went, the more she moaned, and moved with him. LaCroix felt a strange sensation surging through his body, that he has not felt in centuries; almost an out of control surge. He looked deep into Jamie's eyes, she saw the change; something different. LaCroix got closer, and the heat intensified. He suddenly froze in fear, Jamie touched him, whispered that it was all right. She held him tight as he did in return. They rolled over, LaCroix lying on his back; Jamie on top. She managed to get a tight hold on him; LaCroix breathing heavy. Jamie started to slowly move on top of him; up and down. The heat was overwhelming. LaCroix felt that surge coming closer, and closer; very warm and intense. Jamie grabbed hold of the headboard, and held him tighter. Suddenly, LaCroix felt that surge leave his body. He wrapped his arms around her as she melted into his warm body. LaCroix, shocked by the sensation, laid there; stunned. They lay there very still; heavily breathing. They slowly calmed their heat; Jamie looked over, and saw his face; the shock, "Lucien, what is it?" LaCroix slowly turned his eyes to hers, "I felt every movement, every surge; including the surge into you." Jamie gasped, "What?" "I felt the heat of our----climax." he said joyfully. Jamie laughed in complete pleasure, "Another human experience for you." "Yes, but let's make sure." Jamie leaned back slightly, "Can you handle another ride?" LaCroix rolled over, on top, grinned, "Let's find out." Jamie giggled, gave willingly to his new sensation. Scott approached their door, heard the giggling; left them alone. Nick saw the Gallery, pulled up along the curb, and parked. He turned the engine off, opened the door, and climbed out. He closed and locked the door, walked up the stairs; inside. Nick strolled down the small corridor to Molly's office on the left. He noticed the door slightly open, he pushed it slowly, and lightly knocked on it. Molly jumped slightly, placed her hand upon her chest, and turned to see Nick standing in the doorway. Molly, full of joy, walked quickly towards him, jumped into his arms, and he lovingly wrapped his arms around her; held her very tight. Nick picked her up about an inch, took a few steps in, and closed her door with his foot. He walked over, and sat on the corner of her desk with Molly between his thighs. Molly passionately kissed him as he did in return; willingly. Nick looked deep into her sable brown eyes seeing a little uneasiness, "What's wrong?" Molly sighed a little, "Stressful day. The pictures from Russia are held up in customs. Three people are out, and the reports for the France office weren't done right." Nick rubbed her sides up, and down, "Oh honey," Molly stared into his blue eyes, "I'm nuts." Nick, shocked by the phrase, cleared his throat, "Come on, lunch," Molly sighed tiredly, "But…" Nick stood up off the desk, picked up her pocketbook, and handed it to her. He lifted her head with his finger, and kissed her nose, "Molly, lunch---break time. Come on," Nick took her by the hand, led her out of the office, down the hall, and outside. They stood on the stairs, and inhaled deeply; for some fresh air. Nick glanced over, and saw a slight smile beaming from behind her stress-filled eyes. Nick extended his arm to her, she wrapped her hands around his elbow, and he placed his other hand on top of hers. They slowly walked down the stairs, strolled over to her side of the caddy. He unlocked the door, opened it, and she stepped in. Nick closed the door, and strolled over to his side. Nick unlocked, opened, and climbed in. He closed it, and started the engine. He carefully pulled away, and drove to Joe's café. Nick noticed a free space out front; along the curb. He carefully pulled up along the curb, parked, and turned the engine off. Nick opened his door, climbed out, and closed it. He walked around to her side, opened her door, and he extended his hand. Molly placed her hand into his, and stepped out. Nick closed, and locked her door, and they strolled onto the sidewalk. Nick saw a table, near the car; with an umbrella. Nick escorted Molly to the table, pulled her chair out, and she sat down. He pulled his chair out, and sat very close to her; they held hands. A waiter appeared, Nick ordered two hot teas, and he left quietly. Nick pulled her hand close, kissed her knuckles warmly, and looked into her eyes, "Outside of work, what else is wrong?" Molly shyly looked away, "That's it?" Nick gently squeezed her hand for attention; she looked into his eyes, "and possible baby." Molly covered her eyes with her hand; a few tears, "Oh, Nick." Nick sat as close as he could, wrapped his arm around her; to comfort her, "Scared." "A little," Molly replied. "Me, too." Nick said, "Scared that you are, or not?" Molly turned to face him directly, "That I am. Is that bad?" Nick held her hand tighter, "No. This was not planned, or discussed. But, if we are, what do you want to do?" Nick handed her his hanky, she blew her nose, and wiped her eyes, "Not sure." "We'll handle this together." Nick said firmly. Molly smiled, laid her head upon his shoulder, "I know." They sat up, and relaxed, "Okay. If we are, we will do what's necessary to be ready. Is that all right with you?" Molly felt his passion for the possibility, she smiled warmly, "Yes, thanks." Nick tilted his head, kissed Molly lightly upon her rosy cheek, "I love you, unconditionally." Molly smiled, sighed calmly, as she was about to speak, the waiter came by with their tea's, "Excuse me, here are your tea's. Are you ready to order?" "Yes, Molly." Nick requested. Molly hesitated a few, "Turkey sandwich." Nick thought for a few, liked the idea, "Two please. Thanks." "Yes, sir." the waiter responded as he quietly left them alone; to enjoy the atmosphere. They sat quietly, discussed her bad day, the case, and the possible baby. The waiter returned with their lunch then left. They enjoyed their light lunch, and a few laughs. Nick wiped his hands clean, glanced up and took a breath then saw Paul approaching. Paul stepped off the bus; spotted the caddy, and knew Nick was close by. He walked along the curb, and saw Nick with Molly; finishing lunch. Nick saw him; tapped Molly's forearm, and pointed him out. Paul slowly approached them, pulled a chair out, and sat down; with a grin. Nick felt something brewing in his mind; he folded his hands, and glared at him. Paul leaned back, crossed his legs; one hand on his belt, and the other on the table, "Hey, guys." "Hi, Paul," Molly said. "Hey," Nick said, knowing there was more to follow. Paul uncrossed his legs; turned to face Nick, "I ran that name." Nick held up his hand; to stop him, "Not during lunch." Paul noticed Molly's reaction, gave himself a slap upon his forehead, "Right, sorry." he apologized, "Oh, hey, Lucien called, and he wants to see you before you go home tonight." Nick reached into his coat pocket, pulled out his keys, "Thanks. Here are the keys, wait for me there, please." "No problem." Paul said slowly exiting the table. "Thank you." Nick politely responded. Nick glanced over to Molly's soft eyes, "This is our time; no work. You okay?" Molly warmly stroked his cheek then his hand, "I am now." Nick shyly smiled, "Call me if you need, or want---anything." Molly paused a moment or two; "Even to hear you're voice," Nick snickered slightly, "Yes." "Love you." Molly spoke softly. Nick tapped her hand; she looked directly into his eyes, "Love you, too. Let me take you back. Remember, breathe, and drink water then; one job at a time." he began to explain. He touched her nose with his index finger, "If you don't finish one; tomorrow. Stress is bad; you told me that." Molly lowered her head in slight shame with a grin, "You're right." "Come on. Sadly, I have to work, too." Nick uttered with a slight sigh. "Okay." Molly agreed. Nick stood, pulled out Molly's chair, and he extended his hand. As she stood, Nick tossed some money onto the table. Nick pushed the chairs in, escorted Molly out from the tables, and over to the car. They saw Paul sitting in the back seat; reading the file. Nick opened the door; Molly stepped in, and closed it. Nick walked around to his side, opened his door, and climbed in. He closed the door, started the engine, and carefully pulled away from the curb. Nick slowly drove to the Gallery, downtown, and pulled up along the sidewalk, and parked. Paul turned completely around, looked out the back window, to give Nick and Molly some privacy. Nick leaned over, kissed, and embraced her lovingly. Molly opened her door, stepped out, and closed it. She gave him a quick glance then vanished up the stairs and inside the building. Paul quickly moved from the back seat to the front; glanced at Nick's face; his expression. Paul tapped his upper arm, "Hey, man, what's up?" Nick swallowed hard, "I can't, I promised." Paul pulled back, "Okay, but I'm here." Nick smiled, "Thanks." Paul turned to face the windshield, glanced into his direction, "Where to?" "Crime scene to poke; tell me about Joel," Nick requested softly. "Oh, yeah," Paul remembered. Paul reached back for the file he left on the seat, sat up straight, and opened the file; to read it to him. Nick placed the gear in drive, observed all around him, and carefully pulled away; into traffic. He quickly drove through the city, heading for the alley; where the baby was found. Paul cleared his throat to read clearly for Nick, "Joel is a juvey kid; simple stuff, shoplifting, car-jacking, etc." Nick hesitated, as he took a right turn, "And?" Paul read a little further down, a surprised look came across his face, "He also works at the Latham House; part-time, and he's a friend of Tara's." "Randy will be there later. " Nick replied. Paul sighed, "Two for the price of one." "Did you run David?" Nick inquired. Paul chuckled sarcastically, "Yeah, we have six David's on file." Nick gasped a little, "Six." "Yeah," Paul whispered. "Great." Nick remarked, feeling the pressure building. Nick turned the corner, spotted the alley, "There's the alley, hold on." Nick drove along a pot-hole street, and pulled up along the sidewalk; along the curb. Nick carefully parked, and turned the engine off. They opened the doors, climbed out, and closed them. Nick locked the doors, walked around, and stood on the sidewalk. They strolled down, and stood at the edge of the alley. Yellow tape stretched across there path, the alley was untouched, and the silence was deafening. They each pulled out a pair of latex gloves from there pockets; but Nick froze. Paul snapped his last glove, clasped his fingers together; for a tighter fit then noticed Nick standing there; not moving. Paul nudged Nick's side, Nick looked at him, and Paul noticed him sweaty; a little nervous. "You okay?" Paul asked. Nick shook his head, sighed, "Not sure." "Come on." Paul tugged him in. They carefully ducked under the tape; Nick took the left, Paul to the right. They carefully walked, and scanned the area. Examining every box, stone, and piece of trash near them. Nick noticed a box upside down; leaning up against the dumpster. He cautiously approached it, knelt down along side of it, and gently pulled the box down. Nick's eyes filled with shock; inside the box were bloody towels; and an empty syringe lying on the bottom of the box. Nick grabbed hold of a corner, braced himself against the dumpster, and stood up. He scanned the immediate area; nothing, and continued on. They both carefully approached the fence at the end of the alley. Paul saw him holding a box, but mostly, a little shook up. Paul noticed Nick's emotional condition; a little uneasy. Paul looked at his hand then to the box, "What you got?" Nick jumped a little, "Bloody towels, and an empty needle." "Cool." Paul said calmly. Nick looked to him to calm down, "You?" Paul slapped his hands upon his thighs, "Nothing." Nick held the box tighter, "Let's go where Tara was found." Paul extended his hand to give Nick the lead, "Lead on." Nick just glared, scoffed at him, and strolled by him. Nick led the way into the building off to their right; where Tara was found. They carefully approached the doorway, scanned the room before entering. The room has been touched; everything moved and cleaned up. They slowly turned to face each other; let out a long sigh of frustration. "Great." Nick said. "Damn it." Paul said following his remark. Nick looked down into the box, "Well, at least we have this. Here, you hold it, and let's head for Forensics." "Let's go." Paul quickly replied. They slowly turned around, and left the building. They quickly approached the caddy, Nick pulled his gloves off, and frisked his pocket; for his keys. He unlocked the doors; they climbed in, and closed the doors. Nick tossed his gloves into the small barrel behind Paul's seat. Nick placed his key into the ignition, and started the engine. He carefully looked around, pulled away from the curb, and drove quickly to the Forensics building. Nick saw the building, pulled over, and drove along the curb; parked. Nick turned the engine off; they opened and climbed out of the car. They closed and Nick locked the doors. They walked up the stairs; with the box in hand, into Kathy's lab. Nick and Paul quietly entered the lab, saw Kathy sitting on a stool, by the slab; staring at the baby's body lying under a white sheet. They each stood along a side of her; Kathy noticed Nick's shadow, and his faint scent of cologne. Nick lightly touched her weary shoulder, "You okay?" Kathy sniffed slightly, "No." Nick turned to face her directly, "What is it?" "I hate cases with kids and babies." she expressed sadly. "I agree." Paul said joining in. Kathy sat up straight, "and it's getting cold." Nick grinned slightly, "Don't think so, look in the box." Kathy stood up, and looked into the box, "What you got?" Paul lowered the box more, "Bloody towels, and a needle." Kathy's eyes widen with joy, "Let's hope." Paul carefully handed her the box, he pulled his gloves off, and tossed them into the trash, "Always." he whispered, and "Call us if you find---anything." he added eagerly. Kathy carried the box to the other slab, "a.s.a.p." "Thanks." Nick whispered, a little lost. Kathy went off to work on the box, while Nick and Paul left the lab. Nick hesitated on the top step, stared off into the distance, and Paul went down one step, turned and saw him frozen like a statue. "Hey, you okay?" Paul asked. Nick hesitated then looked at his eyes, "Raven later?" Paul smiled, "Always. Come on." They met up and walked down the stairs; together, and walked over to the car. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened the doors, and climbed. They closed the doors; Nick started the engine, and carefully pulled away from the curb. He quickly drove to the Latham House; a few miles away. Nick drove along the curbside, and parked. He turned the engine off, they opened, and climbed out; closed the doors. Nick locked the doors, and they walked along the sidewalk. They climbed the stairs then inside of the building, and saw a desk to the far right. They strolled across the room, approached the desk, and flashed their badges. "Hi, may we speak to Ms. Staples?" Paul requested. Mary grinned, "I'll announce you." "Thank you." Nick replied politely. Nick and Paul turned about, and walked over into the lobby, and waited patiently. A few moments had passed; Lisa quietly approached them, stood by Paul's side, but glanced at Nick. "Hello. Randy is waiting for you; in the gym; down at the end, on your left." she explained the directions to them. "Do you also have a Joel Burton?" Paul inquired. "Yes, he's not here yet. I'll send him down when he does." Lisa said quickly. "Thank you." Nick replied. Paul led the way down the hall with Nick close to his heals. They came to a wooden door, slowly opened, and entered the room. The door slowly closed automatically behind them. They took a few steps in, and scanned the huge gym. They saw bleaches along two walls, a stage at the other end, and a basketball net to their right. Suddenly, they heard a few piano notes echoing in the distance. They walked a little further in, they saw Randy sitting at a Grand Piano; Steinway. Paul stood and listened, but Nick's eyes lit up. He slowly walked over to Randy, and stood by his side. Randy saw his shadow cast upon the piano. Randy suddenly stopped playing, turned, and faced him. "Who are you?" Randy asked, stunned. Nick smiled, sat down upon the piano bench, "Detective Knight. Call me Nick." Randy extended his, shook hands with Nick, "Randy Abbott." Nick lightly touched the keys, "You're good." "I guess." Randy said shyly, "Do you play?" "Yeah," Nick said happily. Randy, a little hesitant, "Can you show me?" Nick, unaware of Paul's presence behind him, cracked his fingers, and gently danced upon the keys. Nick played a few scales of an old song, 'Pipe Dream.' Paul stood in shock of Nick's gift. Randy warmly smiled then just listened, and watched. Nick suddenly stopped when he saw Paul's reflection in the piano. Randy gasped by what he head, "That was great. Where did you learn to play?" Nick cleared his throat; refocused on the case, "I took lessons when I was kid." "I'm impressed." Randy said to honor his talent. Nick turned slightly to face him, "Thanks." Nick straddled the bench, folded his hands in front of him, "I need to talk to you about Tara Wilmont." "Is she okay?" Randy asked; a little worried. Nick sensed he didn't know, "Sadly, she was found yesterday morning." Randy's eyes became teary-eyed, "Oh my God." he whimpered, "and the baby?" Nick paused a moment, "They're both gone." he answered, "Yes, I'm sorry." "Oh, man." Randy whispered. Nick gave Randy a few to compose himself, "Can you tell me anything about the father?" he asked Randy, "Hey, Paul, join in." Paul moved a few feet, by Nick's side, and leaned upon the piano. Randy sniffed his tears back, "whose Paul?" Nick tilted his head towards Paul, "Detective Coletti, my partner, and friend." "Hi." Randy said to greet him. "Hey." Paul returned the greeting. "Go ahead." Nick said to comfort him. "Tara and I were close friends, until Davy showed up. He used her as a play toy; he tried to keep us apart. When she found out she was pregnant, she was so happy. When Davy found out; he was so angry; he screamed and yelled. He took her away, and placed her here. I did the best I could. About a few days ago; before her due date, he came for her; said he changed his mind; he was wrong. That was the last time I saw her, until you told me they died. Poor Tara." Randy filled them in, sobbing at the end. Nick placed a hand upon his forearm; to comfort him. Nick gave him a few then squeezed his arm, "Thank you. We know he's a cop, do you know where he is; where he patrols?" Randy managed to compose himself, "Hold on. Last time I saw him; was with Tara, and that was near the Raven. I can't remember the street name." Nick tapped his arm, "That's okay. I know the club." Suddenly, footsteps echoed in the room, they became closer, and closer. The person stood by Paul, behind Nick. Nick stood up to greet this person. "Excuse me, I'm Joel Burton. Lisa sent me." Joel said. Nick extended his hand to him; they shook hands, "Hey Joel." he said then asked, "Do you remember Tara Wilmont?" Joel tensed up, Paul noticed, so did Nick, "Yeah, Lisa told me, that bites. Did you get Davy?" "Not yet. Know his last name?" Paul asked. Joel turned and faced Paul, stared into his eyes, "David Vasal." Nick grinned, "Vasal, great job guys. Thanks for the help." "Yeah, we'll be in touch." Paul added. Nick politely shook their hands, looked to Paul, "Let's roll." Nick and Paul quickly left the room, and left Joel and Randy; alone. They walked down the hall, through the lobby, and outside. They ran down the stairs, over to Nick's car, and Nick unlocked the doors. They opened and climbed in; closed the doors. Before Nick could start the engine, his cell phone rang. He pulled his jacket around, reached into his pocket, and pulled out his phone. Nick pushed the button, "Knight," "It's Kathy. The bloody towels had Tara's and the baby's blood. The needle has David Vasal's fingerprints. He's a cop." Kathy informed them. "We know thanks." Nick said quickly. "Any name yet?" Kathy inquired. "Later, please. Tonight." Nick requested. "All right, " Kathy said to calm him. Nick hung up the phone, and returned it to his pocket. Nick placed his hands upon the steering wheel, squeezed it angrily, his knuckles turned bloody red, and his breathing was heavier. Paul noticed the sudden change, "Hey, man, you're all tensed up." Nick exhaled hard, "Sorry. Okay, that was Kathy; the bloody towels, Tara and the baby. The needle has David's prints." Paul exhaled in relief, "Solid proof. He cheated, got a minor pregnant, and killed them both." Nick slowly eased upon the wheel, "Yes---he did." he said, flustered, "What else?" Paul tapped his upper arm, "Nothing." Nick glanced over to Paul, "I need to see LaCroix and a beer." "Me, too; I'll catch the bus from there." Paul said in full agreement. Nick grinned, "Thanks. I also promised Molly I would be home early." Paul crinkled an eyebrow, "She okay." Nick paused, "Yeah; I was gone a while, so she's a little scared still." "I hear you." Paul expressed. Nick smiled, "Let's roll." Paul turned to face the window, and watched the scenery. Nick pulled up along the curb, and parked. He turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed their door, Nick locked them, and Paul led the way into the club. The door closed automatically behind them. Blue lighting filled the club, soft piano music playing in the background, and people dancing on the floor; also vampires. Nick noticed LaCroix sitting at the bar, with a drink; not moving. They slowly walked down the stairs, over to the bar, and Scott served them each a beer. Nick stood by LaCroix's side. Paul slapped Nick on his back, bid him farewell. LaCroix heard Nick's voice, turned to greet him, but saw fear in his eyes, "Nicholas." "LaCroix," Nick said in return. LaCroix, very concerned, "What's wrong?" Nick's eyes, slightly watery, "I need to talk to you, someplace very private." LaCroix sensed his fear, "Oh, dear; let's go upstairs. Scott, take over." "Sure thing," Scott said. LaCroix wrapped his arm around Nick's upper back, escorted him around the bar, and into the back room. LaCroix led the way up the few stairs, and opened the door. Nick passed by him, and stood still by the bedpost. LaCroix noticed Jamie sitting on the couch; reading a book. LaCroix quietly walked up to her, they kissed warmly, and he whispered into her ear, "Jamie, I need some time alone with Nicholas. Can you help Scott for a while?" "Sure," Jamie said smiling. "Thank you," LaCroix replied. LaCroix extended his hand to Jamie, and she slowly rose from the couch. Jamie rose up, and walked around the couch, hugged LaCroix, "Anytime." LaCroix jumped slightly with a slight laugh. Jamie walked by Nick, "Hi, Nicholas," "Hi, Jamie, thank you," Nick mumbled sadly. Jamie leaned over, placed a gentle kiss upon his cheek. She then slowly left the room; leaving them alone. LaCroix waved Nick to the couch, "All right, Nicholas, what's wrong?" Nick strolled over, and they sat down together on the couch. They faced each other, but Nick seemed distant, "I can't believe---at my age, I need to talk about this---with you." LaCroix fearing the worst, "What did you do?" Nick nervously rubbed his face, looked away, "Molly's not sure, we'll know in the morning." LaCroix placed his hand upon Nick's forearm to calm him down, "Know what?" Nick looked into his father's; best friend's eyes, with a tear, "She thinks she's pregnant." Shock and surprise filled every pore of LaCroix's body, "What? Nicholas." Nick quietly wiped the tear away, "Please, I'm scared enough." LaCroix let out a sigh, "Sorry. Talk to me." Nick leaned sideways into the couch. LaCroix felt the tension and stress building up in Nick's body. LaCroix reached over rubbed his upper arm to comfort him. "Molly told me this morning, she's a few day's late." Nick explained. "And?" LaCroix queried. Nick sighed slightly, "I told her, that I love her." LaCroix nervously cleared his throat, "Let's go through the-- -usual---steps. Are you two using protection?" Nick grinned slightly, "Yes." "All right, to your knowledge, did it fail at anytime?" Nick sighed, "No." LaCroix felt relieved that his fatherly duty was done, "Could it be stress?" "Maybe," Nick said. LaCroix leaned further into the couch, giving Nick time to relax. LaCroix decided to see where his thought's were; changed the subject a touch, "All right, if she is, what then?" Nick faced LaCroix directly, "I'll be a---Daddy---sooner then we planned, and marry sooner." LaCroix stroked his bottom lip, "If she's not?" Nick sighed, "Then nothing changes, except to be more careful." LaCroix sensed his nerves peaking slightly, "Why are you so scared?" Nick slouched into the couch, "At my age, I'm not ready yet." LaCroix felt his father side erupting again, "I see. If she is, you need to be ready, and support her." "I know." Nick agreed. "Does anyone else know?" LaCroix questioned. Nick quickly faced him, "No, so please." LaCroix placed his hand upon his shoulder to calm him down, "Not to worry." "Not even Jamie, at least until we know for sure." Nick requested strongly. LaCroix laughed slightly, "I'll try," Nick and LaCroix exhaled in relief, and relaxed slightly, "How's Molly handling it?" "Scared; and upset," Nick briefed him. LaCroix glared at him, "Why upset?" Nick tilted his head backwards upon the back of the couch, "She was afraid that I would leave her." LaCroix sat up erected, "And you said?" Nick rolled his head sideways to face him, "No way. We will do this; together." LaCroix reached over, patted Nick upon his upper arm, smiled; "Good, I'm proud of you. I raised you well." Nick chuckled a little, "Thanks." They relaxed and ended the very personal; emotional subject. Nick slapped LaCroix upon his thigh, warmly smiled, "I need to go home. I said I would be home early, and we would do the test together." LaCroix, jokingly, placed his hand over his heart, grinned, "Very honorable." Nick laughed slightly, "She will not be alone." LaCroix tapped Nick's shoulder, "Neither are you." "Thanks." Nick whispered; chuckled in disbelief, "I needed this." LaCroix warmly pointed his finger at Nick, "You will tell me the results." Nick turned, glanced at his expression; in his face, "Always; thanks." LaCroix leaned up, and sat along the edge of the couch; slapped his thigh. Nick just chuckled; feeling relaxed. LaCroix and Nick stood up, exchanged a loving hug, "I'm always here for you, Nicholas." Nick smiled warmly, "I'm glad. Same here---for you." LaCroix placed his arms in front; folded, "I'm pleased. Now, go home, and be with Molly." "Night, LaCroix," Nick said, grinning at his father's eyes. "Night, Nicholas, have faith." LaCroix said, burning a thought into his mind. Nick gave LaCroix a warm squeeze upon his upper arm, "I will." Nick strolled by LaCroix, exited the room, walked down the steps, and walked into the hall. He noticed Paul had left the bar, so he slowly walked up the stairs then outside. Nick strolled over to his car, unlocked the door, opened it, and climbed in. Nick closed his door, started the engine, and slowly drove home to Molly. Nick entered through the alleyway, drove into his space; by the elevator. Nick turned the engine off, opened the door, and climbed out. He closed the door, locked it, and strolled into the elevator. Nick pushed the button, rode up to his loft, and the doors opened into his loft. The doors closed automatically behind him, he strolled across the floor, and saw Molly sleeping on the couch. He grinned warmly then noticed a small white box lying on the coffee table. Nick quietly walked over, picked up the box, and read it; pregnancy test. He stared at the box for a moment then looked at Molly, and he placed the box down on the table. Nick sat on the edge of the table, stroked her soft cheek, and she moved slightly. Molly gradually woke up, saw his sparkling blue eyes, and reached up to hold him. Nick returned the embrace; she pulled away, and sat up on the couch. Nick took notice in her reaction to his touch, he placed his hands upon his lap, and "You okay?" Molly wrapped her arms around his shoulders, "Just nerves." Nick let out a slight sigh, "Its okay, I'm scared, too." Molly glanced at him, "Really?" Nick quietly cleared his throat, rubbed his hands together, "We're both in shock, nervous, and not ready. But if we are, we will get ready---together." Molly sniffed a little, calmed down, "You are so awesome." Nick straightened proudly, "Thank you." he replied, "How about we turn in, and get a good night sleep. I'll tell you a story." Molly smiled widely, "Happy ending," Nick extended his hand to her, "Always," Nick stood up, and Molly followed his lead then kissed his warm cheek. They slowly moved away from the couch, around the chair, and made their way to the staircase. They slowly, hand-in-hand, walked up the stairs, down the small hall, and into the bedroom. Nick strolled into the bathroom while Molly prepared the bed. Nick exited wearing his pajama pants then Molly took her turn in the bathroom. Nick snuggled under the blankets. Molly exited wearing a night shirt, and joined Nick under the blankets. They snuggled very close to each other, and slowly drifted off to sleep. The night hours slowly passed into daylight. The sun shined through the blinds, and rolled up the blankets. A soft pale- yellowish light shined into Nick's eyes. He struggled to open his eyes, closed them from the brightness, and wiped the sleep from them. Nick glanced over, and saw Molly sleeping; comfortably. He grinned warmly, gently kissed her nose, and she slowly opened her eyes. Molly grinned from the view of his boyish smile, and sparkling blue eyes. Molly licked her dry lips, "Hi." Nick gently sat up slightly, moved her hair away, "Morning. How do you feel?" Molly inhaled then exhaled, "Okay, I think." "What's on your agenda?" Nick inquired. Molly sat up along the edge of the bed, looked back at Nick, slightly nervous, "Let me do the test first, and we'll see." Nick saw the fear in her eyes; heard it in her voice, "I would do it for you, but it won't work." Molly laughed slightly, "True. Pass it over, please." Nick reached over to his nightstand, and picked up the box, "If you like, I'll read the results." Molly paused, felt his need to share, "Deal." Nick crawled over the bed, and sat by her side, "Here you go. Take your time, and I'll be right here." Molly smiled, took the box, "Thanks." Nick patiently sat on the bed while Molly walked into the bathroom, and closed the door. A few moments, a flush, and she opened the door. She hesitated a second, walked over to Nick, and sat by his side. Molly nervously took his hand, swallowed hard, "In five minutes, we'll know." Nick gazed into her eyes, "Remember everything we talked about." "I do." Molly smiled. Nick snickered slightly, "I always will." Molly, all jittery, let go of his hand, "Go read it, please; it's on the sink." Nick rubbed her hands to calm her down, "Stay here, be right back." Nick stroked her cheek to calm her nerves; she smiled in return. Nick slowly stood up, walked into the bathroom, and closed the door. A few moments, a flush, and he washed his hands. He saw the test stick to his right. Nick inhaled, slowly picked it up, and stared at it. He slowly exhaled, turned, and opened the door. Nick strolled out of the bathroom, and sat down beside Molly. Molly slowly looked into his eyes, "Well?" Nick sighed; "We're not pregnant." "Thank you." Molly said relieved. "How do you feel, and be completely honest." Nick requested. Molly paused a few, "A little sad, but relieved." Nick smiled, exhaled, "Same here." Nick and Molly embraced each other that there little fright has ended. Molly slowly pulled away, rubbed her tired face, "You're not disappointed?" Nick looked at her then away, and looked again, "It would have been nice, but we're not ready yet. Call me old-fashioned, but I want us married first, enjoy couple time then add the children." A shock look appeared on Molly's face, "Children; how many?" Nick tried to hide his laugh, "Six or so." Molly coughed slightly, "After you." Nick let out his laugh, "I can't." Molly laughed back, "Try two, or three." Nick gave her a quick kiss upon her lips, "Deal." "I love you." Molly said, smiling. "Love you, too." Nick said, hesitated, "Want to share a shower?" "Always," Molly answered willingly. Nick stood, extended his elbow to Molly. She slowly stood up, took hold, and they strolled into the bathroom; closed the door. Molly slid the door open, started the water, and returned to Nick. She grinned with a devilish look in her eyes, reached over, and took hold of his string on his pajama pants. She pulled it, and his pants fell to the floor; around his ankles. Nick looked down, saw his naked body then looked up at Molly. He saw the smile on her face, and became a little nervous. Nick smiled back, cleared his throat, "What?" "Very nice," Molly said staring at his mid-section. "Thank you," Nick shyly replied, "That's a new move." Molly stepped closer to his body, "Yeah; Jamie said it was fun." Nick suddenly thought of LaCroix, "Don't tell me." Molly took him by the arm, "Guess. Come on," They climbed in, Nick closed the door, and they enjoyed a quick shower. Nick leaned over, turned the water off, and slid the door open. Nick helped Molly climb out then him, and they dried each other off. They strolled into the bedroom, got dressed for work, and strolled out of the bedroom; into the hallway. They walked down the stairs, and entered the kitchen area. Molly began to prepare a fast breakfast while Nick started up the coffee maker. The coffee aroma began to fill the air; and their senses when a knock echoed from the door. The door slid open, and Paul strutted in; the door closed automatically behind him. Paul walked across the floor; into the kitchen, leaned upon the counter, and watched them. Nick strolled by Molly, gently squeezed her side, and Paul cleared his throat to draw Nick's attention. Nick jumped slightly, glanced over, and saw Paul standing their, with a dirty grin. Nick moved over to him, and leaned on the counter with his elbow. Molly heard him, turned slightly looked at Nick; he nodded his head to tell her, cook extra for Paul. "Hello." Paul mumbled with a little laugh. Molly turned slightly, glanced at Paul's face, "Hey Paul. Want some breakfast?" Paul stood erect, grinned, "Sure, if it's no trouble." Molly scoffed lightly, "No, its okay." Paul bowed quietly, "Thanks." Paul also noticed Nick hasn't said a word since he's been there. He lightly hit Nick's forearm, stared into his face, "Okay, why are we so quiet? I can hear a pin fall on a rug." Nick let out a long sigh, "Sorry." Paul hesitated, let it pass by; untouched. Paul cleared his throat; they followed Molly into the table, sat down, and enjoyed a warm breakfast. They talked, and ate for about thirty minutes or so, when Paul tapped his mug with his fork, "Nick, where to?" he questioned. Nick wiped his face, held Molly's hand, "Station for round up. I need to see where we are on this case, and visit this Davy." Paul noticed Nick's grip to Molly, "Cool." "I'll be right down." Nick hinted for a private moment. Paul stood up, extended his hand, "Keys, please." "Table," Nick answered quickly. Paul saluted them both, "Later. Bye, Molly." "Bye." Nick uttered in a whisper. Paul stepped around the table, walked over to the table; by the couch, and picked up Nick's keys. Paul quickly exited the loft while Nick and Molly watched him silently. Nick and Molly watched the door close then turned their attention to each other, "Molly, he's right. We're too quiet. Is there something else that we need to talk about?" Molly quietly looked down at Nick's hand gently stroked his knuckles; sighed, "Not sure." Nick paused a moment, "That we're disappointed, and glad." Molly faced Nick's eyes with slight fear in her eyes, "Maybe." she said, "and it's confusing." Nick raised her hand, kissed it warmly, "How about a movie, pizza, and we talk about it?" Molly lovingly rubbed his hand, "Done," "Don't work too hard." Nick expressed. Molly smiled, nodded, "I won't need a lift. I have my car." she said. Nick leaned over, kissed her soft lips, "Okay, love you." Molly laid her head upon his shoulder, "Love you, too." Nick helped Molly clear off the table, carrying the dishes into the kitchen, and loaded up the dishwasher. Nick leaned over affectionately kissed her, walked over to the table; by the couch, and picked up his things. He carefully removed his gun from the small drawer, checked the safety switch, and placed it into his belt; in the back. Nick quickly left the loft, rode down in the elevator, and outside to his car. He opened his door, climbed in, and looked to Paul for the keys. Paul glared at him, and refused to hand them over. Nick closed the door, feared what Paul was thinking, "All right, enough. What's wrong?" "Nothing," Nick mumbled. Paul leaned towards him, very stern, "Look, man, you have been in a daze for a day. Is it this case?" Nick felt his wall weakening, "No." Paul shook the keys for him to hear, "Spill it, its affecting the job." Nick felt his defense fading, his friend was very worried, "Molly thought she was pregnant." Paul gasped, leaned back, "Whoa---and?" Nick sighed, "She's not." Paul sighed quietly, but noticed Nick's face was non- expressive; numb, "Is that good or bad?" Nick arched his back into the seat, "Don't know." Nick started the car then backed up, and headed for the station. Nick drove into the empty space along the left side of the building, and turned the engine off. Paul grabbed his arm, and "Do you want to be a father?" Nick, stunned by the question, looked oddly into his eyes, "Yes and no." he replied, "Yes, because I love Molly, and I want a family. No, because I don't feel ready yet, and it scares me; a little," Paul chuckled, rubbed his face, "Oh, hell, that's normal." Nick swallowed hard, "It is?" Paul felt true nervousness on fatherhood, "You see all the bad, the hate, and the insecurities; that's scary. Then, you see Molly, the love, the trust, and the future family; scares the hell out of you." Nick placed his keys into his pocket, glanced into Paul's eyes, "What do you do?" Paul placed a hand upon Nick's shoulder, "Love, faith, and friends, but mostly, family; like Lucien, Jamie, and Molly. Hey, to scare you even more; you got me; and the gang." Nick's face filled with terror; and a slight grin, "Now, I'm terrified." Paul gave Nick a little shove towards the window, "Funny." he mumbled, "Come on, check in time; time to put slime boy away." Nick scoffed at him, "Thanks." "Anytime; I'll send you my bill." Paul said, jokingly. Nick coughed slightly, "Checks in the mail." Paul grabbed the left side of his head, "OUCH. That's cold." Nick laughed slightly, and tilted his head sideways to show Paul; get out of the car. Nick and Paul opened their doors, slowly climbed out, and closed them. Nick locked the doors; they strolled along the sidewalk, and up the stairs; inside. As they entered through the doorway, they noticed Allen standing there with Michael and Rose off to his right side. Nick and Paul glanced at each other then slowly approached them, "Hey, guys." Allen glanced, grinned, "My office, now." Nick and Paul quickly followed him with Michael and Rose close behind. The fear slowly filled their senses, their nerves were slightly numb. Allen walked into his office, stood off to the side, until everyone passed by, and he closed the door. They pulled up a chair, and Allen sat behind his desk. He turned his computer on, opened the file lying on his desk, and tapped the desk with his fingers to draw attention. Allen cleared his throat, "Okay, the baby case is now with the FBI." Nick and Paul glared at each other, "Why?" "It deals with a cop; as a possible suspect. Also a minor, and an infant." he said directly. "What do you have?" Nick asked, jumping in. Allen grabbed a pen, pad of paper, and scratched his head in stress. Allen looked at each face, cleared his throat, "Let's begin the round table with Michael and Rose." he suggested, "Michael." Michael looked to Allen directly, "Joel Burton is a new student, and I happened to hear him talk about Tara and the baby. He was talking on his cell phone, and described things as though as he was there." Allen wrote down every word he spoke, hesitated, "Really. Did he mention any names?" Michael paused a few moments in deep thought, "No, just Tara's. It sounded like he was there before she died." Allen placed the pen down, swallowed hard, "Thanks for your help. Sorry to say, we need to discuss the case; privately." Michael slowly stood up as Allen did, and Michael extended his hand to Rose, "That's okay. I'm glad I could help." "We're planning a pizza and beer night at my place." Nick shared his plan. "Let me know." Michael said eagerly. Nick grinned, "Done." Michael escorted Rose out of Allen's office, leaving the building, and left them to their job. Nick moved the other chairs away, he and Paul moved in closer to the desk, and Allen sat back down. Allen picked up his pen again, Nick cleared his throat, and "What made the FBI move you in here?" Allen smiled, "It seems a lot of the cases are centering here, and where we have worked together before; a lot. Bill thought it would be easier." "Cool." Paul said warmly, with a smile. "Definitely." Allen proudly agreed. Nick sighed, "Does Kathy know?" Allen held up his hand, "Not yet, and that's the other reason." Paul surprised by the reason, "You two, that serious." Allen smiled widely, "Oh, yeah," Nick and Paul snickered slightly, but Allen held his index finger to his lips, to silence the laugh, "Let's finish up. Nick, you're turn." Nick took a few moments to ease his laughter, "Okay. The baby died shortly after birth. Kathy found two bruises under its chin; suggests he was pulled out of her body. Tara; basically bled to death." "Damn," Allen mumbled, "Did you talk to Joel?" "I mainly spoke with Randy. Joel came in as we were leaving." Nick replied. Allen wrote it down into the file, "Okay. I'll talk to him. Paul, did you find Vasal?" "Not yet. Lisa's on it." Paul answered quickly. Allen pulled out his lower left drawer, removed a file, and closed it. He carefully handed it to Paul, "This is his home address, and a warrant. Keep me posted." Paul trying a southern accent, "Yeah, boss," Allen gave Paul the evil eye glare, "Cute." Nick snickered, "No, but Molly is." Allen rubbed his face; hard, closed the file, "All right, enough. Party later." As they were enjoying casual conversation, a knock came from the door, and Lisa walked in; holding a piece of paper. She quickly handed it to Paul, glanced at Nick then left; closing the door behind her. Paul unfolded the paper, read it then grinned. "What is it?" Allen asked. Paul looked at Nick, then over to Allen, "She found Vasal." Nick quickly stood up, "Let's go," "Still search his place." Allen reminded them. "Okay." Paul answered as he stood up. Nick and Paul quickly left Allen's office. They exited the building, and walked outside. They strolled down the stairs, and over to Nick's car. Nick fished for his keys, unlocked the doors, and they opened their door. They climbed in, closed the doors, and Nick placed the key into the ignition then paused. Nick slowly turned to Paul, "About, Molly, just us," Paul sighed, "I knew that." Nick turned the key, "Lucien knows, but Molly didn't want anyone else to know, but I needed…" Paul placed his index finger upon his lips then lowered it, "I'm here, and its safe." Nick smirked slightly, "Thanks. What was that address again?" "Hold on." Paul requested. Paul leaned up and over his seat, grabbed the file, and opened it. He showed him the address and then tossed the file back into the backseat. Nick started the engine, backed up, and slowly blended into traffic. He drove the roads that led to DuPont Street; Paul observed the cruiser off to the side; next to a fast food restaurant. Nick carefully drove along the curb, parked about six inches away from them. Nick turned the engine off, and slowly exited the car. Nick walked along the left side, Paul, the right side. They carefully approached the windows, and leaned over so they could talk quietly. David and his partner, Ed, saw them. They stopped eating, and gave them full attention. Nick cleared his throat, scanned the car, "Hey, guys." Shock filled David's face; Ed bowed his head down to his lap, "Yes sir." David said addressing Nick. Nick glared into David's eyes; Paul kept his eye on Ed, "I have this case, a murdered teenage girl and her baby. A real sick person; not even human, did this." David suddenly felt numb, "Really?" Paul glared at Ed, "Yeah. Hey, Ed." Ed swallowed hard, slightly sweaty, "Hello, sir." Nick slapped the top of David's shoulder a little hard, "Do you know the name Tara Wilmont?" David cleared his throat, "I don't think so." Paul jumped in, "Really?" "What happened?" Ed questioned. Nick cleared his throat, glared into David's eyes; to let him know, he knows, "A young girl died when someone pulled the baby out of her body, and killed the baby as well." Ed crinkled his eyebrow in disgust, "That's horrible." Paul sighed loudly, "I agree. What do you know?" "Nothing," Ed whispered. Paul placed his hand upon his shoulder, "If you do, the slime ball isn't worth it." "Yes, sir," Ed replied. "Where were you---two mornings ago?" Nick said, interrogating David. David looked up to Nick's face, "In court then patrol." "I'll check that out." Nick returned the angered tone of voice. "Fine." David uttered softly. "Have a nice day." Nick smirked to David. Paul slapped Ed, "Bye." Nick and Paul glared for a moment; to add to their tension, leaned up, and slowly walked away. Ed nervously placed his food into a bag, and wiped his face with a napkin. Ed glanced over to David, and cleared his throat, "Dave, you didn't hurt her---did you?" David glared into Ed's face, sighed heavily, "No." he answered, and "Throw the trash out, time to work." "Fine," Ed replied. Ed picked up all the trash, and stuffed it into a paper bag. He opened his door, stepped out, and walked over to the trash can, threw the bag away. Ed returned to the cruiser, climbed in, and closed the door. He glanced at David then looked away, and looked out the window. David turned the key, started the engine, and pulled away from the curb. Nick noticed the driveway, of David's home, and carefully drove in. He turned the engine off; they opened their doors, and climbed out. They closed the doors, and Nick locked them. Nick walked around the front of the car, met up with Paul, and stood beside him. They glanced at each other, and slowly walked up the path; to the front door. They quietly cleared their throats, pulled their badges out from their pockets, and Paul rang the doorbell. Suddenly, a woman, tired and worn, appeared in the doorway, looked through the window, and them standing there. She slowly opened the door, and peeked around the screen, and saw Paul near the doorbell. She opened the door, a slight creek, "Hello." "Karin Vasal?" Paul inquired. "Yes." Karin whispered, in slight confusion. They each flashed their badge, "I'm Detective Coletti, he's Detective Knight. May we come in and talk?" Karin sighed fearfully, "What's wrong?" Nick moved up closer, "Inside, please." he suggested. Karin hesitated glancing into Nick's face, "Come in." Nick and Paul slowly walked into the house, stood in the kitchen doorway, and Karin closed the door. Karin strolled into the kitchen, and sat down in a chair; at the table. She folded her hands, and placed them upon the table. Karin appeared very nervous, but her eyes displayed a fear-filled look. Paul gently approached her, handed her the search warrant; for the house. A few tears slowly rolled down her soft cheek. Karin stared and sniffed her tears back. "I'm sorry, but we need to search your home." Paul painfully explained. Karin looked up into his eyes, "Is it true?" Paul swallowed, in slight shock that she may know, "Is what true?" Karin sighed slightly, "Tara." Nick stepped closer to Karin, "She died two days ago." Karin looked back, up to Paul's face, "Was it David?" Paul glanced over to Nick's face, "We can't discuss it; it still being investigated." Karin lowered her head away from them, tossed the warrant onto the table, and rubbed the sadness from her face, "Please, do what you must do." Paul gently placed his hand upon her shoulder, "Thank you." Nick and Paul quietly moved out of the kitchen, and left her alone with her thoughts. Paul led the way with Nick close behind him, down a narrow hallway; to the door that led to the master bedroom. Paul reached into his pocket, and pulled out some gloves. He handed a pair to Nick. They slipped them on, and Paul slowly turned the doorknob. He gave it a slight push, and it opened with a slight creek in the hinge. Paul strolled in; Nick followed, and stood along his right side. Paul roamed left while Nick roamed the right, and they searched the room. It was your average master bedroom, a huge king size bed in the middle, to the left; a closet with a dresser stretched under the window, and to the right; another long dresser with a mirror extending from its back, and a vanity table; very feminine. They searched everything in view. Paul stood directly in front of the closet, and carefully pulled the door aside. He noticed the door was jammed in the corner; he stepped in, and saw a small wooden box stuck; keeping the door jammed. Paul carefully reached down, under David's clothes, and removed the box. He walked over to the bed, and cautiously opened it. His eyes filled with shock, he gasped at what he discovered. He whistled slightly to draw Nick's attention to him. Nick strolled over, and stood by Paul's right side, and looked into the box. He too, was stunned by the discovery. Inside the box, were photographs of naked women; mainly young girls. Paul reached in and carefully shoveled through them. Paul hesitated a moment, "Unreal." Nick sighed then gasped. He reached in and found a photograph of a familiar face, "Tara." Paul glanced at it, shook his head in disgust, "One sick puppy." Nick placed the picture back into the box, "I agree." Paul covered the box, and placed it under his jacket; trying to hide it from Karin. "We'll take these to Allen." Paul said. Nick nodded his head, "Done." he agreed. "Did you find anything else?" Paul asked. Nick sighed, "No." he answered, "Let's go." Nick turned away from Paul, and led the way out of the bedroom. Paul closed the door behind them, and they returned to Karin; in the kitchen. Karin heard the scuffing of Nick's shoes coming through the doorway; across the floor. She slowly looked up into Paul's eyes. Paul saw that she had been crying while they were searching. "We're done." Paul told her. Nick cleared his throat, "Once again, we're sorry to disturb you." Karin sniffed her tears back, cleared her throat, and looked up into Nick's blue eyes, "It's all right. Please, let yourselves out." Paul gently placed his hand upon her shoulder, "Thank you." Nick and Paul quietly left the kitchen, Paul opened the door, and Nick closed it on their way out. Nick and Paul walked over to the caddy, Nick unlocked the doors, and they opened their door. They climbed in, and closed their door. Nick started the engine, backed up, and slowly drove away. He drove to the heart of the city; to the Raven. Nick drove through a few green lights, spotted the Raven off to his right. He carefully pulled over, and parked along the curb. Nick turned the engine off; they opened their doors, and climbed out. They closed the doors, and Nick locked them. He placed his keys into his pant pocket, and met Paul up on the sidewalk. They strolled across the sidewalk, up to the front door, and opened the door; they entered the club. As they entered the club, they stood by the railing, and were amazed by the view. Lavender lighting filled the club, a silver ball slowly rotating high above their heads, and soft classical music playing in the background; mainly violins. Nick saw LaCroix leaning upon the bar with Jamie at his right side. They slowly walked down the stairs to join LaCroix, and relax. Paul sat down on a stool, and Nick stood by LaCroix's left side with head lowered. Scott quietly placed two beers down, and walked away. LaCroix glanced over, and felt Nick's pain; he turned slightly, "Nicholas." Nick looked over, LaCroix saw his teary eyes, and "LaCroix, can we talk?" LaCroix reached up, and placed a hand upon his forearm, "Of course." he replied, then turned to Jamie, "Jamie, excuse me." Jamie rubbed her hand upon his chest, kissed his soft cheek, "Sure." she answered, looked towards Nick, and "Hi, Nicholas." "Hi." Nick mumbled. Paul reached over, and tapped his arm, "I'll catch the bus, and see you at ten." "Thanks." Nick whispered in return. LaCroix extended his hand, "Shall we." Nick grinned at Paul, and followed LaCroix's lead. LaCroix led Nick into the backroom, and up the few stairs. LaCroix opened the door, Nick passed by him, and walked over to the couch; sat down. LaCroix closed the door, grabbed his drink on his way, and joined Nick on the couch. He noticed Nick had a very tight grip on his glass of beer. LaCroix slowly crossed his legs, faced Nick; he was slouched into it, and "Nicholas." Nick cleared his throat, "LaCroix, I…" LaCroix tapped his upper arm, "Drink first." "But…" Nick uttered. LaCroix nudged his arm, "Drink first, trust me." Nick sighed loudly, "All right." Nick raised his glass, gulped his beer down like it was water. He placed the glass down on the coffee table in front of him. Nick leaned back into the couch, and exhaled. LaCroix stroked his bottom lip, sighed slightly, "Better?" Nick glanced over, "Some," LaCroix cleared his throat, "First Molly." Nick looked at his eyes, "We're not pregnant." LaCroix felt relieved, and yet, he saw Nick's eyes said something else, "How do you feel about this?" Nick paused for the moment, "Confused." LaCroix blinked his eyes in surprise; by his answer, "How so?" Nick took a deep breath; exhaled, "Relieved because I'm not ready yet, but sad, because I want a family so much." LaCroix laughed slightly, "I see. You will have that family that you so desire." "I know." Nick said, calming down; with a grin. LaCroix sensed there was more to say, "All right; the case." Nick slammed his head back into the couch, "Frustrating." LaCroix rested his head upon his hand, leaning on the couch, "Explain." "It's a cop that did the deed, and he's married with two kids. Why?" "Why some men are not satisfied?" LaCroix insinuated. "Greed." Nick guessed in return. LaCroix hesitated slightly in thought, "Some. Does the wife know?" Nick glanced over, "I think so." LaCroix slowly laid his hand upon the couch, "Pity." Nick turned slightly to face LaCroix, "Since I've been with Molly, I have never looked, thought, or desired anyone---but her." LaCroix smiled, "That's true love talking. Contentment and you have settled down." Nick glanced into LaCroix's eyes, "Are you?" LaCroix glared back, "Yes, that's why we were joined." "Why is it so hard for others?" Nick questioned. LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Everyone has searched for that answer, for centuries, and no one has found one." "Great. The wife and the kids are going to be so hurt." Nick said quietly. "Yes, but time will heal their wounds." LaCroix told him. Nick scooped upward, sat on the edge of the couch, "I know, but it will be a broken home/family, and he will be in prison for double murder." LaCroix gave him a gentle slap upon his back, and sat along the edge with him; "Life isn't fair." As they finished their man-talk, a knock came from the door, and Nick's cell phone rang. Jamie opened the door, and quietly walked in. She stood behind LaCroix, wrapped her arms around his neck. Nick quickly reached into his pocket, pulled out the phone, and pushed the button. Nick cleared his throat, "Knight," A friendly voice came across the receiver, "Nick, it's Kathy, I hate to be pushy, but the family is here, and we need a name." "Hold on." Nick said, placing the phone into his chest, "Hey, Jamie, LaCroix, its Kathy, she needs a name." LaCroix quickly covered his eyes, sighed loudly, "I forgot." Nick placed the phone back to his ear, "One minute Kathy." "Okay." Kathy replied. Jamie jumped in, "A name?" LaCroix carefully tilted his head back, to see her warm face, "Yes, the newborn male baby." "Oh." Jamie said softly. Nick glared at Jamie, and then placed the phone again to his ear; looking at Jamie, "Kathy." "Yes." Kathy answered. "Nelson." he told her. Kathy thought about it, "Love it, thanks." Nick hung up his cell phone, and placed it back into his pocket. Nick sat back into the couch. Jamie stood stunned by Nick's warm gesture, "Nicholas." Nick looked up at her, saw the surprise in her eyes, "Do you mind? I can call her back." Jamie stepped over to Nick, "No." she said bending down, and kissed his cheek, "Thank you for the honor." Nick smiled, "My pleasure." Jamie returned to LaCroix's side, "I came to see if everything was alright." LaCroix lifted her hand, gently kissed her soft knuckles, "We're fine darling." Jamie smiled, "All right," "We're still talking, come back later." LaCroix hinted to Jamie, they need more time; alone. Jamie reached down, kissed his forehead, "Let me know." LaCroix grinned, "I will." Jamie reached down again, and passionately kissed LaCroix's red lips. Jamie then slowly left the room, leaving them alone to finish their man-talk; father to son. LaCroix hesitated, placed his hands together, and looked over to Nick; directly into his eyes. "Nicholas, the confusion you and Molly feel is normal. You want a child, but after you two have settled into your life together; as a couple. Call this a slight test to your relationship; a challenge if you will. A lot of people end up like your case, but very few are like you and Molly; and you're friends." he explained life to Nick; to his son. Nick smiled, "You and Jamie?" LaCroix let out a little laugh, "True. The child will be laid to rest with a name, and you have most of the pieces to the puzzle. Gather the rest and put him away. They're pain will be great, but it will heal." Nick exhaled slowly then grinned, "Thanks, Lucien." "Anytime," LaCroix said warmly. Nick sat along the edge of the couch, turned to face him, "When it's over, we're having a party at the loft." "Let us know, and we will be there." LaCroix said accepting. "Great. Talk to you later." Nick replied a slight plan. LaCroix sat along the edge, "I'm always here for you." Nick snickered, "I'm so glad." LaCroix slapped his upper arm, "Same here; send Jamie up." Nick slapped LaCroix's thigh as he stood up, "All right," LaCroix stood up along side of him. LaCroix walked a foot away from Nick, watched him leave the room, and the door close. LaCroix laughed slightly, never thought he and Nick would be so close and care for each other as they do. Nick walked down the few steps, strolled in, and over to the bar where Jamie was sitting on a stool. Nick quietly walked up to her, placed a warm kiss upon her soft cheek, whispered into her ear; LaCroix's waiting. Jamie smiled, and Nick slowly walked away. He climbed up the stairs, and then outside. Nick walked over to his car, unlocked the door, opened it, and climbed in. Nick closed it, started the engine, and carefully pulled away from the curbside. He slowly drove back to the station, to meet up with Allen. Jamie entered the room, and saw LaCroix sitting down on the couch; very quiet. She quietly walked over, stroked his shoulder, and sat down very close; by his side. They greeted each other with a kiss, and LaCroix let out a slight sigh. Jamie leaned back into the couch, held LaCroix's hand, "Nicholas all right?" "Yes, why?" LaCroix questioned. "He seems lost." Jamie told him. LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Human life confusion." Jamie shook her head, "I see, and you?" LaCroix glanced into Jamie's eyes with a confused look, "I don't understand." Jamie cleared her throat, to speak clearly, "You also seem lost. It seems you two share the same life line. When he hurts, laughs, or cries; so do you." LaCroix grinned by her words, "He's my son." Jamie hesitated in fear of the grounds she was walking on, "He's human, you are a vampire still; that blood tie is gone." LaCroix glanced into her eyes, "Is it?" LaCroix turned, sat straight, and leaned into the couch. Jamie moved closer to his side. LaCroix took hold of Jamie's soft hand, placed a gentle kiss upon her knuckles, "We have shared blood, and centuries of memories. By law, he should have never remembered his past; or mine; but he does." Jamie smiled in return, "Because the higher power chose it to remain." LaCroix fondly stroked her hand, "Yes, and we did share everything, that bond was unbreakable." "Yes." Jamie whispered. LaCroix inhaled slightly then looked into her loving eyes, "I can't imagine my life without him." Jamie's eyes became watery by his love for Nick, "You truly love him." LaCroix warmly smiled, "Yes." Jamie lovingly reached up, stroked his cheek, "I know he loves you just as much; if not; more." LaCroix turned slightly to embrace her, "I know. He has told me." Jamie snuggled into his chest, "I can see it every time you two are together." LaCroix stroked her hair, "Thank you." he replied. He leaned over to the table, picked up a few books, "Here, help choose a car for us." Jamie tilted her head to see his eyes, "A car." LaCroix frowned slightly, "Flying is out; only emergencies." he said. Jamie pouted back, "Okay." Jamie took the books, and snuggled into LaCroix's warm body. LaCroix cradled her as they searched for the car. Back at the police station, Nick slowly entered Allen's office, carrying the box, and closed the door behind him. He placed the box upon the desk, pulled up a chair, and sat down placing his folded hands next to the box. Allen swung his chair around, away from his computer, and caught a glimpse of Nick's hands. He glanced upward, saw his face, and jumped a foot or two. Nick snickered at him knowing it's hard to scare Allen. "Hey." Allen said, greeting him. Nick grinned, "Hello. What's going on?" Allen leaned upon the desk, sighed slightly, "I've been playing around with this case, and guess what I found?" Nick tilted his head in fear, "What?" Allen pulled a file out from under his desk, placed it in front of Nick's eyes, and opened it. He carefully pointed to a paper for him to read, "This is not his first affair." Nick, shocked by the report, sighed, "Really?" Allen flipped the page to the other side, and showed the next file to him, "He was transferred here from Boston." Nick paused, read the file, "Did she die?" Allen closed the file, "No, but she had a convenient miscarriage." Nick laid his head upon his hands, sighed then lifted his head up, "Man," Allen pushed the file aside, and nodded in full agreement with Nick. Allen reached over to his right; noticed the box and glanced at Nick, "What's that?" Nick glanced at it then back to Allen, "Get some gloves." Allen, slightly hesitant, "Okay," Allen reached down to his left, the top drawer of his desk, and pulled it out. He pulled out two pairs of latex gloves, tossed a pair to Nick, and they put them on. Nick moved the box into the middle of the desk, and opened it. Nick pulled out a small stack of photographs, "Pictures of very young naked girls, including Tara." he expressed. Allen took the pictures, fished through, "What?" Nick cleared his throat, "Yeah. Before the search, we spoke with David and his partner Ed. I think Ed knows more then he's letting on." Allen displayed a devilish grin, "Oh, we can fix that." "Good. Include me." Nick strongly suggested. Allen tapped the desk, placed the pictures back into the box, and closed it up. He put the box under his desk, by his feet; for safe keeping, "Done." Allen waved his hands to change the subject, "How are Lucien and Jamie doing?" Nick smiled, "Much better." "Still planning a big party?" Allen queried. Nick snickered, shook his head, "Just everybody for a movie and drinks." Allen smiled, "Cool. What's next?" Nick leaned back, gave his neck a slight roll to stretch the stress out, "I told Molly I'd be home for dinner, and Lucien wants to go car poking." Allen gave Nick a thumb's up signal, "All right." Nick looked directly at Allen, "Anything else?" Allen smiled widely, "I'll take these to Kathy, I'm picking her up anyway." Nick leaned slightly upward, "You two seem pretty tight." Allen clicked his lips together with a devilish grin, "Very serious." Nick's eyes beamed brightly, "Wedding?" Allen glanced at him, "Not yet." Nick stood up, fixed his jacket, and tapped the desk with his fingers, "Keep me posted. Later." Allen shook his hand, stood up, "Stay cool." Nick slowly left Allen's office, closed the door behind him, and strolled out of the station. He walked down the stairs, strolled over to the caddy, and unlocked his door. Nick opened his door, climbed in, and closed it. He started the engine, looked around, and slowly pulled away from the curb. Nick drove the main roads home; to Molly. Nick slowly drove through the alleyway into the empty space; by the elevator, and parked. He turned the engine off, opened his door, and climbed out. Nick closed the door, locked up the caddy, and stepped into the elevator. The doors closed, he rode up to the loft, and the doors slid open; entering into his living room. The doors closed automatically, he saw Molly in the kitchen, just finishing dinner. He quietly walked in, gently placed his things down; gun in the small drawer, and quietly walked into the kitchen. Nick moved behind her, placed his strong arms warmly around her waist, and gave her a slight squeeze. Molly lovingly touched his hands with hers, turned around, and saw his boyish grin; the sparkle in his blue eyes. She wrapped her arms completely around his neck, and they held each other as tight as possible. Nick gently pulled his head back, looked at her soft, loving brown eyes, "Hi." Molly kissed Nick passionately, "Hi. I'm so glad your home." Nick snuggled a little closer, "Me, too. Is there something wrong?" Molly sighed slightly, "No. I just missed you." Nick lovingly stroked her soft cheek, "All right. Can I help with dinner?" Molly paused for a moment, smiled, "Yes, grab the plates, and I'll get the glasses. Everything else is on the table." Nick reached above her head, opened the cabinet, and grabbed the plates then closed it. "Let's go, I'm starving." Nick said with a huge grin. Molly laughed slightly, she picked up the glasses resting on the counter, and dinner; followed Nick into the table. She placed the glasses down by the plates, placed the meal by the candles, and they sat down to a warm; but loving meal. About an hour or so passed, they finished the last drop of white wine, and they slowly cleared off the table. They gave each other a silent toast, and kissed passionately. They placed the dishes into the dishwasher then Nick escorted Molly into the living room. Nick sat down first, into the corner of the couch. Molly slowly sat down; by his side, and snuggled into his body; smiling. Nick warmly kissed the top of her head, and noticed she didn't react. Nick slowly stroked her arm, "Okay, are you still confused about the test results?" Molly touched his hand with hers, and smiled, "Not really. I know it will happen later, right now; I want us to enjoy each other." "Agree." Nick replied. Molly sat up, and turned to look at Nick's face, "What's left on your agenda?" Nick hesitated for a moment, "I told Lucien, I would meet him at the Raven, and go car poking." Molly glanced at the clock, "What time?" Nick crinkled his eyebrow in confusion, "When I'm done here, why?" Molly gently stroked her finger along his thigh, "Well, we haven't had dessert yet." Nick laughed slightly, "Oh, no, that's bad." Molly smiled widely, "Well?" Nick quickly looked to his left then his right, and into Molly's eyes, "Right here." Molly slowly moved her hand upward, stroked his chest, began to unbutton his shirt, "Why not?" Nick swallowed hard, feeling aroused, "Good question." Molly moved her fingers down to his belt," and what's the answer?" Nick slowly moved towards her, kissed her passionately, "Coming up." Molly lay back onto the couch with Nick, and they warmly made love; on the couch. Nick's phone rang, but he chose to ignore it; it was LaCroix reminding Nick about the car shopping. Back at the Raven, LaCroix finished recording his message, hung up the phone, but seemed puzzled. Jamie took notice of LaCroix's eyes, and the distant thought. Jamie quietly approached him, stood by his side, and grinned. LaCroix sensed her presence, took her right hand, and placed a gentle kiss upon her knuckles. LaCroix gazed into her loving eyes, "What is so funny?" Jamie inquired. LaCroix warmly stroked her soft cheek, "Nicholas, didn't answer." "No." Jamie snickered slightly, "I know he's home. He's with…" "Oh, dear." LaCroix whispered. "Yeah." Jamie uttered in return, "Don't worry, he promised to be here." LaCroix warmly rubbed her upper arms, grinned, "What shall we do until he arrives?" Jamie thought for the moment, smiled seductively, "We could prepare the club, or do the same as them." LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Tough choice." Jamie tilted her head aside, confused, "It is." LaCroix laughed, smiled warmly, "You always then the club." "Temptation," Jamie replied. "Nicholas said for me to ignore temptation." he quoted his earlier words. Jamie looked away, slightly sad, "Does that include me?" LaCroix gently placed his fingers under her chin, raised her head to see her eyes, "That's one temptation, I refuse to ignore." Jamie smiled widely, took hold of his shirt, "Good, follow me." "Where?" LaCroix inquired. Jamie, with a slight giggle, "The shower," LaCroix gave willingly, "Lead on." Jamie took LaCroix by the hand, and led him into the bathroom for a very hot shower. They helped each other strip down, and Jamie started the shower. They carefully climbed in, and the heat of the water intensified their passion. LaCroix lifted Jamie slightly upward, he moved in closer, and they made love to each other. Nick and Molly eventually made it upstairs; to their bedroom after warm loving on the couch; by the fireplace. They were snuggled very close; under the blankets; of their bed. Nick glanced over, noticed his clock, and the time; it was almost nine. He slowly rolled back, and gently kissed Molly upon her rosy cheek. Nick grinned, "I'll be with LaCroix. It should only take an hour or so." Molly inhaled slightly, smiled, "Okay." "Thanks for dinner." Nick said quietly. Molly lovingly stroked his soft cheek, "Thank you for dessert." Nick blushed slightly, "Same here." Molly glanced into his blue eyes, "I'll be---right here; waiting for you." Nick winked his left eye, "I'll hurry." Molly raised her index finger to him, "No 911's." Nick sighed slightly, "I'll try. Love you tons." Molly smiled warmly, "Love you, too." Nick leaned over, kissed her warmly upon her forehead. Nick carefully climbed out of the bed, and strolled over to his dresser. He pulled out some casual clothes, walked into the bathroom; for a quick shower. Nick got dressed, walked into the hallway, and down the stairs; grabbed his things from the table. Nick quickly left the loft, rode down in the elevator, and outside to his car. Nick unlocked his door, stepped in, and closed the door. Nick started the engine, backed up slowly, and drove to the Raven; to meet with LaCroix. Nick drove up along the curb, and saw him standing there; waiting patiently. LaCroix enjoyed the cool night air, turned slightly, and saw Nick slowly approaching. Nick pulled up, stopped, and LaCroix carefully opened and climbed in; next to Nick. They greeted each other warmly with a smile, and LaCroix removed a pamphlet from his back pant pocket. He showed it to Nick. Nick laughed slightly, not surprised. Nick took the pamphlet, examined it then handed it back, "That's, what you are looking for." "Yes; is that a problem?" LaCroix questioned. Nick cleared his throat in fear of his next question, "No, but why that?" LaCroix grinned, gazed upon the picture, "It's classy, it's black, and it has a big trunk." Nick tried to bite his tongue, "Big trunk." LaCroix felt his sarcasm, "Yes, that's important." Nick smiled, placed the key into the ignition, "True. All right, let's go look at one." LaCroix decided to turn the table; the wind into Nick's direction, "How's Molly?" "Good." Nick replied. "I tried to call you; you didn't answer." LaCroix replied. Nick tried to hide his boyish grin, "I---uhm---I was busy." LaCroix noticed the grin, grinned in return, "I see." Nick gave him a double look, "All right, let's go." LaCroix casually laughed; as Nick joined in. Nick started the engine, observed the traffic, and carefully pulled away from the curbside. He slowly drove a few miles down the road, to the car dealership LaCroix requested. Nick saw the entrance, placed his left directional on, and carefully drove into the lot. There were many samples of cars; Ford, General Motors, and also, Mercedes Ben. LaCroix grinned slightly when his eyes caught a glimpse; of the car. Nick parked his caddy along side of the building, turned the engine off, and they climbed out. They closed the doors, and Nick quickly locked them up. Nick placed his keys into his pant pocket; they strolled through the car lot, and scanned every car that had LaCroix's interest. A gentleman, tall and dark haired, wearing a business suit; observed their every move, and took note of which car they examined the most. He slowly approached them, hands folded, and offered his assistance; but they politely refused. He grinned, waved, and quietly left them to explore further. Nick leaned closer to LaCroix, "Well?" LaCroix folded his arms across his chest, "Many choices, but I do like this one." Nick snickered slightly, "You always did like fancy things." LaCroix laughed in return, "True." "Do you want to buy it now, or look further?" Nick offered a choice. LaCroix hesitated for a moment, "I wish to discuss it with Jamie first." Nick removed his keys from his pocket, "All right. I'll take you back home, and then me. Molly's waiting for me." "Really?" LaCroix grinned in return. Nick noticed his expression, took it up one level, "Oh yeah." LaCroix placed a hand on his chest, and the other upon Nick's upper arm, "Lead on." Nick glanced into his eyes, smiled, and led the way back to the caddy. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened the doors, and climbed in. They closed their door; Nick started the engine, and slowly drove out of the car lot; to the Raven. Nick pulled up along the curb; LaCroix grinned, and opened his door. He climbed out, closed the door, and Nick watched him walked in front of the car, up onto the sidewalk, and inside of the Raven. Nick carefully pulled away, and drove home to Molly. He drove through the alleyway, into his space next to the elevator, and parked. Nick turned the engine off, opened the door, and stepped out. He closed the door, and locked up the caddy for the night. Nick pushed the elevator button, the doors opened, and he stepped in. The doors closed, pushed the second button, and rode up to his loft. The doors opened into his living room, and the doors closed automatically behind him. He walked over to the table; by the couch, and emptied his pockets. He placed his gun with the safety switch on, into the small drawer, and locked it. Nick strolled over to the staircase, and made his way upstairs. Nick quietly stood in the doorway, and gazed upon Molly. She was snuggled completely under the blankets, a warm glowing smile, and sleeping. Nick lightly laughed, walked through the bedroom, and into the bathroom. He quietly closed the door, stripped down, and used the toilet; flushed it. Nick changed into his lounge pants and t-shirt, and exited the bathroom. Nick slowly walked around the bed, to his side, and moved the blankets slightly. He gently sat down, set the alarm, and crawled under the blankets; along Molly's side. Nick wrapped his arms around her; she moved close, and they slept warmly in each others arms. The remaining cool night hours slowly passed as the sun rose high above the city. Suddenly, Nick's alarm sounded. He rolled over, and switched it off. Nick rolled back, embraced Molly, and kissed her gentle cheek. She rolled over, away from Nick, and stayed asleep; with a glowing smile. Nick smiled, carefully climbed out of the bed, and strolled around the bed; into the bathroom. A few moments passed then the shower ran. He quickly stripped down, and opened the door. He stepped in, and slid the door closed. Nick stood under the hot water; the heat massaged his muscles, and got cleaned up for the day. He rinsed out his golden hair, leaned back, and turned the water off. He slid the door open, and stepped out. Nick reached over, and grabbed his towel. He dried his entire body off, wrapped it around his waist, and exited the bathroom. Unaware, Molly was awake; he walked over to his dresser, and pulled out some work clothes. When he turned around, and tossed the clothes onto the bed; he saw Molly glaring at him. Nick stood there, stunned, and slightly blushing. Nick smiled, "Morning." Molly grinned, "Morning. That's very tempting." Nick cleared his throat, "Thank you, and I would; but I need to work today." Molly lay back onto her pillow, "Same here; but later. What do you have to do today?" Nick dropped his towel, and slowly got dressed, "Let's see; search warrants, talk to Ed, and the lab; also her friends." "Are you able to arrest him yet?" Molly asked. Nick zipped up his fly, fixed his belt, "Almost." "What name did you give the baby?" Molly inquired. Nick slipped into his shirt, "I'm sorry; Nelson, after Jamie's father." "Beautiful." Molly whispered, with a smile. Nick sat down on the bed, leaned over to face her, "Yeah. Now, that I'm dressed, I'll see you later. Love you tons." Molly warmly stroked his cheek, "Love you more." Nick grinned, "I'm honored." Molly placed her hands around his neck, "I, too." Nick gently leaned closer, they kissed each other passionately, and he placed a quick kiss upon her nose; Molly giggled slightly. Nick slowly stood up off the bed, strolled out of the bedroom, and into the hall. He walked down the stairs, over to the table, and picked up his keys and things. As he unlocked, removed his gun from the small drawer, Paul came strutting in. Paul walked up to Nick with a huge grin; Nick hesitated in slight fear, and" What's that about?" "Kathy called. She found something to place David there, and Ed." Paul said, beaming. Nick puzzled, "Ed." Paul nodded his head, "Yeah," "Why him?" Nick asked. "My guess, Ed knew about the affair, and when David killed her, and the baby; he either helped or covered it up." Paul played out. Nick hesitated a moment, "Maybe both. What about Karin?" he asked. "Talk to her later." Paul suggested. Nick placed his gun into his belt; in the back, under his jacket, "The friends, too; Kathy first." Paul stepped aside, extended his hand, "Let's go, buddy." Nick led the way with Paul at his side; they left the loft, and rode down to the elevator; down to Nick's car. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened their door, and climbed in. Nick started the engine, backed out, and slowly drove the roads to the Forensics building; Kathy's lab. Nick saw the building ahead, pulled up along the curb, and parked. He turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed the doors, Nick locked them, and they walked up the stairs; inside to Kathy's lab. When they entered, they saw Kathy hovering over Tara's body; but the baby, Nelson; nowhere in sight. They quietly walked in, stood along side of her, and Nick gently tapped her forearm; to draw her attention. Kathy looked up, saw his blue eyes, "Hey, guys." "Hey," Nick whispered. Kathy moved slightly down, "Come over here, look at her thigh." "Okay." Paul said. Kathy pulled Nick a little closer, she turned Tara's leg slightly and there, they saw a bruise with a burned letter in the middle. Nick inhaled slightly, "What's that?" "That's a bruise with a burned letter D in it." Kathy said. "David." Paul whispered. Kathy grinned wider, "And, I also found a print on her shirt button." "And." Paul said, slightly jumpy. Kathy turned to face them both, "Are you ready?" Nick, feeling edgy, "David." Kathy shook her head, "Ed Zouls." she told them. They both exhaled, Paul looked shocked, "What?" "They were both there, and touched the body." Kathy explained. Nick rubbed his face, "We still don't know who did what. I mean David did kill Tara, but what was Ed's part, if any." "True." Paul mumbled. "We want them both, or David away; for good. What was in the needle?" Nick inquired. Kathy glanced to Nick, "Sedative, a little more than the recommended dose. To ease her labor pains, maybe." "Damn. We need to place them with no doubt. What about the log of where they were that morning?" Paul suggested. "Hey, yeah. I forgot." Nick replied. "It's okay." Kathy said, understanding. Paul leaned closer to Nick, "That's not you. What's wrong?" "This case," Nick replied. "I understand that." Paul returned, "Come on, we'll have Lisa check it out, and let's go see Karin." "Lead on. Thanks Kathy." Nick said politely. Kathy smiled, "Anytime." Paul tugged Nick's jacket sleeve, and they slowly left the lab. They walked out of the building, down the stairs, and over to the car. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened their door, and climbed in. They closed their door, Paul called into Lisa with the mike, but Nick hesitated behind the wheel. Paul hung the mike back up, and noticed Nick; very distant. Paul tapped his shoulder, "You okay?" Nick glanced over," I slipped." Paul scoffed it off, "No problem. You were thinking of someone else. If it was me, I would have forgotten too." "Don't let me slip again." Nick requested strongly. Paul tapped his upper arm, "Done. Lisa's doing the search, let's go see Karin." Nick fished for his keys, "The home didn't have much." Paul thought for a moment, "What about the garage?" "Maybe, then Ed; I want to rattle the cage, and see what falls." Nick replied. Paul turned to face front, "Fun-time." "Thanks." Nick whispered. Paul grinned, "Beer later." "Done," Nick agreed. Nick started the engine, observed his surroundings, and carefully pulled away from the curb. Nick quickly drove the roads to the Vasal home. He saw the driveway to his left, put the directional on, and slowly drove into the driveway. Nick turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed their door, and Nick locked the doors. They walked up the path, stood in front of the door, and Paul reached over; rang the bell. Karin slowly opened the door, shocked by their presence, let them pass by, and they stood in the doorway. Karin closed the door, turned, and faced them directly. Karin folded her arms in front," What is it?" Nick cleared his throat, "We need to search the garage." Karin inhaled with a slight sniff from her tears, "All right. Did David do this horrible crime? Please, I need to know." "We're still investigating." Paul said calmly. "Please, if you can, let me know." Karin pleaded sadly. Paul glanced over to Nick then back to Karin, "We'll try." "Just push the button to your left, and it will open automatically." Karin explained. "Thank you." Nick whispered. Nick and Paul quietly walked back through the door; and outside. They strolled to their right, over to the garage; Nick reached up, and pushed the button. The garage door, with a creek in the hinge, slowly rolled upward, and stopped. Paul roamed the left, and Nick roamed the right. Unaware to them, David and Ed drove by in their cruiser. They saw them searching around in the garage. Paul walked to the far back wall, and found a box hiding in an old tire. He quickly whistled for Nick to join him. Paul pulled out his hanky, and picked up the small box. Nick pulled out his hanky, and carefully opened the box. Inside; they found letters addressed to David from Tara. Nick slowly closed the box, and they left the garage. Paul pushed the button to close the door. They quickly walked to the caddy, and Nick unlocked the doors. They opened, and climbed in. Paul placed the box onto the backseat, and noticed the time on his watch. Paul inhaled, "Hey, man, lunch. Where are we meeting Michael and Allen?" Nick thought for the moment, "Charlie's." "Let's go. We'll drop that off later." Paul suggested. Nick looked into the backseat, "Take that towel, and cover it up." Paul reached into the backseat, covered the box up with the towel, "Done." Nick quickly started the engine, backed out, and drove to Charlie's pizza place. As he pulled up, Nick noticed an empty space out front, and slowly drove in. He turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed them, Nick locked the doors, and they walked into the restaurant. They scanned the restaurant, Paul saw Michael and Allen sitting in a booth at the far back wall. Paul tapped Nick's arm, pointed them out, and they quickly walked towards them; sat down. "Hey." Paul said. "You're late." Allen said; a little worried. Nick cleared his throat, "Sorry." he said softly, and "We were searching a garage." Allen tapped his forearm, "Later. Relaxing time. This case has taken a huge toll on us, and the boss is buying." Paul jumped in, "It sure has. Did you order?" "Yeah; let's talk guy stuff." he politely ordered. The waiter arrived with their food, and drinks. They engaged in light conversation, and relaxation. Down at the Raven, Scott had begun to prepare things for the night. LaCroix quietly entered the room, and stood by the bar. Scott turned slightly, and saw him their; very still. He walked over to the fridge, and removed a bottle of blood for him. Scott pulled the cork, and placed the bottle in front of LaCroix. LaCroix slowly picked it up, and inhaled a few sips of its essence. Scott cleared his throat, "Are you all right?" LaCroix exhaled, "Not sure. I'm worried about Nicholas." Scott leaned upon the bar, "What's happened?" LaCroix looked into Scott's eyes, "Tell no one." Scott swallowed hard, "All right." LaCroix sighed, "At first, Nicholas and Molly thought she was pregnant." "And?" Scott inquired. LaCroix scoffed slightly, grinned, "No. Nicholas is working on a case that is very disturbing. A mother, sixteen, and her newborn infant were murdered." Scott lowered his eyes, "Poor Nicholas." "Yes. It's affecting his job, and his well-being." LaCroix replied. Scott stepped closer, "Did he want the child?" LaCroix inhaled, "Yes, I think more than he realizes." "There's still time." Scott replied. "True." LaCroix said softly. "How's Jamie?" Scott asked, switching the subject around. LaCroix grinned, "She's fine, a little quiet, but fine." Scott paused slightly, "Something wrong?" LaCroix finished his drink, stood up, "No. Let's finish getting everything ready." Scott nodded, took the bottle away, and began his duties. LaCroix picked up the cloth off the bar, and slowly began to wipe it down. Jamie quietly snuck in, and watched them clean up. Scott started to approach her when LaCroix suddenly sneezed; loudly, and then again. He stood there, stunned in fear. Scott and Jamie slowly approached him. Jamie gasped, "Lucien, Bless you." LaCroix stunned; numb to the bone, "I sneezed." "A human reaction to dust, and your body reacted to it." Scott briefed him. LaCroix cleared his throat, "That was…" Jamie smiled, a small tear rolling down her soft cheek, "Scary, but exciting." LaCroix's eyes sparkled, and," Yes, well." Scott grinned, "You are truly changing." LaCroix looked around him, "I must tell Nicholas." Scott looked at his watch, "Its still daylight." he told him, "He's coming by tonight. Re-create the action, and maybe sneeze for him; as a surprise." LaCroix beamed at the idea, "Let's try." "First the club, then the surprise," Jamie said. "All right," LaCroix warmly agreed. Scott took hold of LaCroix's forearm, "Tell you what, you two go and plan the surprise, and I'll take care of the club." "Are you sure?" LaCroix asked. "Yeah, go on." Scott said, happily. "Thank you." LaCroix replied. "Thanks." Jamie warmly said. Jamie warmly took LaCroix by the hand, and slowly led him into the backroom. They walked up the few steps, and entered their room. LaCroix closed the door, and looked to Jamie. He smiled warmly, and strolled up close to her body. Jamie lovingly kissed LaCroix upon his soft cheek, "Now, tell me how you felt?" LaCroix laughed slightly, "It was stimulating, and yet, unsettling." "How so?" Jamie inquired. LaCroix stroked her cheek bone, "You have no control over it. That's how Nicholas explained it, when it happened to him." "What caused him to sneeze?" Jamie wondered. LaCroix thought for a moment, "Cologne, he splashed a little onto his face, I stood in the doorway, and he sneezed." "Was he scared?" Jamie asked. LaCroix scoffed, grinned, "Like a child." "And you?" Jamie queried. "The same." LaCroix admitted. Jamie smiled lovingly, "I'm here." LaCroix stepped closer to her, gazed into her eyes, "That pleases me so." "Same here; how long before we open, and Nicholas arrives?" she inquired. LaCroix hesitated, smiled, "A few hours, why?" Jamie seductively massaged his chest, "Well, I thought we might celebrate your new experience." "What did you have in mind?" LaCroix asked. "Well, we could begin here, and see where it goes." Jamie thought stroking his mid-section. LaCroix licked his dry lips, pulled Jamie closer, "Really." he said. Jamie placed her hands upon LaCroix's pant buckle, and began to undo his belt then the button. She slowly unzipped his fly, and he embraced her tightly. LaCroix lifted her upward, and she wrapped her legs around him. He strolled over to the bed, laid her upon the bed with him halfway on top of her; and they warmly made love. Back at Charlie's pizza, the guy's had finished eating, and made plans for a party at Nick's loft. They each placed money into the middle of the table then left. Michael and Allen left in their own cars while Nick and Paul left in the caddy. Paul picked up the mike, and called into Lisa, "81 Kilo to base, Lisa." A voice came across the speaker, "81 Kilo, go ahead." Paul cleared his throat, "10-20 on Vasal and Zouls." "DuPont, west." dispatch told him. "10-4." Paul replied. Paul hung up the mike, looked to Nick, "Let's go." Nick started the engine, backed up, and drove to the west side of the city; to DuPont Street. As Nick turned onto that street, he spotted the cruiser ahead. Paul turned the lights on, and David pulled over along side of the road. Nick drove up directly behind him, and parked. Nick turned the engine off, and Paul glanced over, "How do you want to do this?" Nick thought for the moment, "Let's separate them, bring Ed back here, and I'll hit David." Paul glared over, "Talk," Nick scoffed at him, "Yeah," "Remember, one wrong move, he walks." Paul replied for him to behave. Nick sighed, "I know." Paul felt better, "Cool. Send Ed back here." "Five minutes, then station," Nick suggested. "Okay." Paul answered. Nick opened his door, climbed out, and closed it. He slowly walked across, over to Ed's side of the cruiser. Nick strongly suggested to Ed to join Paul in the caddy while he spoke with David; alone. Ed opened his door, walked away, and Nick climbed in. Ed strolled down, passed Paul, and climbed into the backseat; behind Paul. Paul sat across the front seat, feet at Nick's window, and his back against his door. He glanced into the backseat; Ed appeared very nervous; slightly sweaty. Paul cleared his throat, tapped the seat to draw his attention, "Okay Ed, what do you know about Tara?" "Not much." Ed whispered. Paul scoffed slightly, "Come on, we know she and David had been banging each other." Ed sighed loudly, "All right, he was, but I didn't approve, she was a minor." Paul glared directly into his face, "Go on." Ed leaned back into the seat, folded his arms; sighed, "When we had breaks and stuff; we would meet her, and they would disappear." "What about her friends?" Paul inquired. "They knew, and hated it." Ed answered. Paul leaned up to see his face better, "We found your fingerprint on her shirt button." Ed became very nervous, "No way." Paul cleared his throat, sat up straight, "You know Forensics doesn't lie. Here's some advice; he's not worth going down for, or loosing your career. You could go to prison. Just remember that; now, get out." Ed stared at Paul for a moment, "Later," "Maybe," Paul replied. Ed reached over, opened the door; glared at Paul, and climbed out. He closed the door, and walked away. As Ed approached the cruiser, Nick climbed out, and strolled by Ed; bumping his arm on the way. Ed climbed into the cruiser, closed the door, and David peeled away from the curb; vanished. Nick walked over to his side, opened the door, climbed in, and closed the door. Nick inhaled slowly; then exhaled, "Well?" Paul grinned, "He knows. I don't think he did anything directly, but he knows something." "David's guilty as sin, but someone else was directly involved with him." Nick suggested calmly. "Who?" Paul asked. Nick sat up straight; "First, let's drop that off at the lab, and head for the station." Paul turned to face front; rubbed his hands together; grinned, "Time to dance." Nick smiled back, "Oh, yeah." "Cool. Lead on." Paul said, happily. Nick started the engine, observed his surroundings, and slowly pulled away. Nick quickly drove to the Forensics building, pulled up along the curb, and parked. Paul turned around, and grabbed the box under the towel; off the seat, and opened his door. He climbed out, closed the door, walked up the stairs, and into Kathy's lab. Paul gave her the box, and quickly returned to Nick; in the car. Nick put the car in gear, carefully pulled away, and drove a few feet down to the station. Nick saw an empty space at the right side of the building, slowly drove into it, and parked. Nick turned the engine off, they opened their door, and they climbed out. They closed their door, Nick locked them, and they walked up the stairs; inside of the station. When they got near Nick's desk, they saw Allen in his office; beating his desk. He was banging his fists upon the top of it; yelling. They quickly walked over, knocked on the door, and Paul opened the door. Paul closed it when Nick passed by him. They each pulled up a chair, and sat down; in front of him. Allen caught a glimpse of them, closed his eyes, and exhaled. Nick quietly cleared his throat, "Hey, what's wrong?" Allen inhaled then exhaled, rubbed his face with his hands, "This case, I hate it." Paul scoffed, "Us, too. But, we shook the cage." Allen's eyes beamed slightly, "Round-up." "Let's begin." Nick eagerly said, leaning forward with hands resting upon Allen's desk. Paul joined him, grinned slightly, "We dropped off a box of love letters from Tara to David; at the lab. And I spoke to Ed. He's involved, but not with the murders. Cover-up, maybe," Allen pulled out some paper, and his pen; wrote it all down. He glanced over to Nick, "Nick." Nick grinned, "I spoke with David, he tried to hide the fact he knew her." "Well, it's very interesting. David was there; in court, but he was late; two hours late. But Ed was there, so he testified first then David." Allen expressed. "That places him there." Paul said, excited. Allen pulled out a form for them to read, "Well, thanks to Ed, we got some DNA, and Kathy's running it." Paul gasped slightly, "Ed." "He hates prison, but he will have to do some time for conspiracy. We're dealing." Allen told them. Nick, happily shaking his fist, "Yeah," Allen raised his hand slightly, "David doesn't know, so; under the table." "Cool." Nick whispered. Allen pulled out another form, part of Ed's confession, "Ed's blood was there because Dave hit him in the face. He threatened to turn him in, but Dave held it on him that his DNA was there as well." "Why?" Paul inquired. Allen cleared his throat, placed the papers back into the file; closed it, "My guess, she said no to an abortion, agreed to adoption. Changed her mind; threatened his world." "Slime ball." Nick mumbled. Allen grinned, "No argument here." Paul sighed loudly, "Now what?" "We need that DNA, so hold off pushing his buttons. We can't have him running off on us." Allen requested. "Done." Paul said. They each exhaled and casually leaned back after a stressful conversation about work. Nick felt the need to change the atmosphere, "How do you like here?" Allen smiled widely, "Love it." Paul grinned, saluted Allen, "Cool. Welcome aboard." Nick tapped the desk, "Beers at the Raven." "Done," Allen agreed. When Nick was about to speak, his cell phone rang. He removed it from his pocket, "Knight," A warm familiar voice came across the receiver, "Ebourn." Nick's face lit up with a soft glow, "Hi." "Can you stop by for a few before the Raven?" Molly requested. Nick smiled, "Sure; on my way," Nick grinned, ear-to-ear, hung up the phone, and placed it back into his pocket; grinned glued. He looked up, and noticed Paul and Allen also had grins, and Nick sensed the wheels turning in Paul's head. Nick glanced at Paul; ignored him then glanced at Allen, "What?" "Molly." Allen inquired, with a slight laugh. "Yeah." Nick answered. Paul snickered, "Gallery." Nick felt the third degree coming, "Yeah." Allen slightly laughing, "Dessert." Nick exhaled, "Hey." "Pick me up at the lab." Paul requested. Nick slowly stood up, looked at the two of them, "You guys are just jealous." Allen gasped slightly, "Oh, man." "That's cold." Paul added. Nick placed his hands upon the doorknob," But true." Allen nodded his head, "Yeah." "Later, guys," Nick said, exiting Allen's office. Paul and Allen watched Nick strut out of the building, and disappeared. Nick walked down the stairs, over to his car, and unlocked his door. He opened his door, climbed in, and closed the door. Nick started the engine, slowly pulled away, and drove to the Gallery. Nick carefully drove along the curb, and parked. He turned the engine off, opened his door, and climbed out. He closed the door, and locked it. Nick walked up the stairs, down the corridor, and stood in the doorway of Molly's office. Molly was standing by her desk; she inhaled the faint scent of Nick's cologne, and turned around. She saw his sparkling blue eyes, and boyish grin; she ran into his strong arms; he returned the embrace. Nick picked her up slightly carried her in; Molly moaned from the warm embrace. Nick closed the door with a slight kick from his foot. Nick laughed slightly, he sat along the edge of the desk with Molly; very close, between his thigh's. Nick grinned, "Hi" "Hi. I needed that." Molly expressed happily. Nick kept a grip around her waist, "Something wrong?" Molly sighed slightly, "I got it a little while ago." Nick hesitated, glanced into her eyes, "Is that good or bad?" Molly shyly bowed her eyes away, "Bad, because I wanted dessert, and now." Nick swallowed slightly, "Sorry." he whispered, "Anything else I can do?" Molly paused, grinned, "Hug me." Nick smiled widely, "Anytime." "Thanks." Molly replied. Molly tightly squeezed Nick, pulled back; laughed, "I rented the cabin up in the mountains when the case is closed, and this is gone." "Good." Nick agreed. "He said we can pay when we arrive." Molly briefed him. Nick gave her a little squeeze, "Okay. I would still take you; even with your period." Molly gave him a warm kiss upon his soft blushing cheek, "You're sweet. Those paintings finally arrived through customs from Russia." Nick jumped slightly, "Let's go see them." Molly warmly escorted Nick out of her office, and to the paintings display area. They slowly roamed the small room, examining each painting; every detail. Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang; he reached into his pocket, and pulled it out. Nick quickly pushed the button, "Knight," Paul cleared his throat, "Hey Buddy, I'm at the lab, and we have a big break." Nick looked to Molly, "On my way." Nick hung up the phone, placed it back into his pocket, "Sorry." Molly smiled, "Its okay." she said, to assure him, "What is it?" "Paul. We got a major break in the case." Nick replied. Molly grinned, "It's all right. We'll do this another time." "Are you sure?" Nick inquired. "Yes. I will see you tonight." Molly said warmly. "Oh, yeah." Nick agreed. Nick leaned towards her, and kissed her with every ounce of passion he had, and beyond. He stroked her soft cheek, and slowly walked away. Nick quickly left the Gallery, walked down the stairs, and walked over to his car. He unlocked his door, opened the door, and climbed in. Nick closed the door, started the engine, and carefully pulled away; drove to the Forensics building. Nick carefully pulled up along the curb, and parked. He turned the engine off; opened the door, and climbed out. Nick closed the door, locked it, and walked up the stairs. He quietly stepped into the doorway, and stood there. Nick saw Paul standing along side of Kathy's desk while Kathy was working on a file. Nick quietly strolled in, and positioned his backside against the slab; in front of Paul. Nick cleared his throat, crossed his arms in front of his chest, "Hey." Paul jumped slightly, turned to see him, "Hey; oh, do we have a surprise for you." Nick inhaled slightly, "Good surprise." "Oh, yeah; Kathy." he said offering her the floor. "Yeah, hey, Nick, great news," Kathy said beaming. Nick feeling slightly nervous, "I'm listening." Paul walked over to him, stood directly in front of him, "Well, first, Ed is spilling his guts to Allen. I guess I hit a nerve." Nick inhaled," Good," Kathy joined Paul at his side, "Ed gave us a cigarette from David, and we ran a DNA test profile. A perfect match to the blood found, and the print. Rubert is running a test using his DNA, and Tara's; a paternity test." The room became dead silent; Paul inhaled, "Well?" Nick licked his dry lips, "I'm speechless." Paul waved his hands up then down to his sides, "Finally." Nick cleared his throat, "Hey." he said, "Fantastic! Let's go get him." Paul grabbed his elbow, "Whoa, not yet. We need that test result." "Allen will set it up, in his office; to nail him tomorrow." Kathy told him. Nick smiled, "I need to be there." "We will all watch the show. Right now, it's beer time. Allen is waiting for us." Paul told him. Nick gave Kathy a quick kiss upon her cheek, "Thank you so much." Kathy smiled, "Anytime," Paul placed his hand upon Nick's upper back, "Let's go, Buddy." Paul practically dragged Nick out of the lab; to the outside. They walked down the stairs, over to Nick's car, and Nick unlocked the doors. They opened their door, climbed in, and closed them. Nick started the engine, pulled away from the curb, and quickly drove to the Raven. Nick spotted the Raven, pulled over, and carefully drove along the curb; parked. He turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed them, and Nick locked them up. Paul led the way into the club, and they stood near the railing. The club appeared a little slow; almost empty. They slowly walked down the stairs, and strolled over to the bar. Paul sat upon a stool, and Nick leaned on the bar with his elbows. Scott sensed Nick's presence close by, fixed two frosty beers for them, and moved down to greet them. He placed the beers down in front, wiped the bar slightly, and grinned. "Hey, Paul, Nicholas; on the house," Scott said. "Thanks. It seems a little slow tonight." Paul replied. Scott cleared his throat, "Yeah, full moon." Nick gulped down about half of his beer, "Where's LaCroix?" Scott smiled, "Upstairs, waiting for you. He has a gift for you." Paul tapped his hand, "Go ahead. I'll catch the bus." Nick wiped his lips, picked up his beer, "See you about ten." Paul raised his beer slightly, "Done." Nick carefully held his beer, strolled into the backroom, and up the few stairs. He lightly knocked, hesitated then opened the door. As he stood aside, Jamie walked by with a smile, and left the room; closing the door behind her. Nick noticed LaCroix standing in front of his dresser, gazing into the mirror, cleaning the dresser. Nick stood firmly upon the floor, holding his beer, "LaCroix." LaCroix turned, grinned, "Nicholas, watch." Nick slightly confused, "All right," LaCroix grinned slightly, began to dust the dresser, shook the duster near his nose, and he suddenly let out a loud sneeze. Nick completely shocked by the sneeze, dropped his beer, and it crashed to the floor; his pants and floor were wet. Nick stumbled to LaCroix, walking upon the shattered glass, and stood directly in front of him. LaCroix noticed his eyes were slightly teary-eyed, grinned, "Well?" Nick exhaled, "Bless you." "Thank you." LaCroix replied calmly. "You sneezed." Nick said, still stunned. LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Yes." Nick cleared his throat, "When did this start?" "A few moments ago," LaCroix replied. "LaCroix." Nick whispered. Nick became overwhelmed by the sneeze; he embraced LaCroix, and he returned the same motion to Nick. Nick warmly smiled; and stepped back slightly. LaCroix, with a slight grin, smiled in return. Nick hesitated, thought for a moment, and suddenly remembered his first sneeze. Nick grinned, "That's how…" "I remember." LaCroix said. "I am---so thrilled." Nick expressed happily. "Same here. How's the case?" LaCroix asked. Nick calmed himself down, "We got him, and closing it tomorrow." LaCroix sensed his tension level a lot less, "Good, and Molly?" Nick smiled, "She got her period today," LaCroix leaned upon his dresser, "I see. Stress perhaps." "Yeah," Nick replied. LaCroix laid the dust cloth down, rubbed his nose, "Where to now?" Nick snickered slightly, "Wine and chocolates." LaCroix grinned, "Nice combination." Nick stepped back a few, picked up a towel from the chair, and cleaned up the glass, "A quiet evening, and the chocolates for her nerves." LaCroix laughed, "Really?" Nick tossed the towel and glass into the barrel by the bed, "You'll see." LaCroix hesitated for the moment, "True." Nick brushed off his clothes, grinned over to LaCroix, "Night, Lucien," LaCroix paused at the sound of his first name, "Night, Nicholas," Nick strolled up to LaCroix, hugged him warmly, and slowly left the room. As Nick slowly left the Raven, Jamie walked into the backroom, up the stairs, and into their room. LaCroix was sitting on the couch, she noticed he was in a daze with a slight grin; one tear rolling down his cheek. Jamie quietly approached him, and gently rubbed his back. She moved around, and sat down by his side, "Lucien, you all right?" LaCroix grinned, "Yes." Jamie smiled slightly, "How did Nicholas take it?" LaCroix laughed slightly, "He cried, actually." "That happy," Jamie hinted. "Yes." LaCroix replied. Jamie stroked his cheek, "Oh, Lucien." LaCroix scoffed a little, "Yes. And all the hell I put him through." Jamie inhaled by his words, "He forgave you, remember." "I know but…" LaCroix thought out loud. Jamie tapped his arm, to draw his eyes to hers, "If it wasn't, he would not be in your life still." LaCroix exhaled slightly, "True." Jamie smiled, "Talk to him about it." LaCroix grinned, "I will." LaCroix turned to face Jamie, held her hand passionately, "What can I do for you?" Jamie smiled, "A lot." LaCroix tilted his head back slightly, "Really?" Jamie, slightly hesitant, "One question first," LaCroix appeared serious, "Go on." Jamie licked her dry lips, "When you receive your Redemption, will we be together?" LaCroix, shocked by her question, "What?" Jamie swallowed hard, cleared her throat, "I'm a Dhampir, which will never change. When you're human…" LaCroix quickly took hold of her hands, "Jamie, I love you, that's why we are joined. Nothing will ever change what we have now, or in the future. Question is, how you will feel?" Jamie looked deep into his eyes, "My love grows for you every moment, vampire or human. I love the person in your heart, and your soul." "Settled," LaCroix replied. "Yes." Jamie agreed. "I'm pleased. Have you examined the papers for the car I showed you?" he asked. Jamie grinned, "Yes. Let's have some wine, talk then love for the day." LaCroix laughed slightly, "Great plan." Jamie snuggled into LaCroix's strong body, "Good. Come on." Jamie warmly took LaCroix by his hand, and gently rubbed it upon her soft cheek. Jamie poured the wine; sitting on the table. They enjoyed the wine, talked about cars, and made love for the day. Nick slowly entered the loft carrying a bottle of wine, and a box of chocolates. He saw Molly lounging on the couch under a blanket; reading a book. Molly heard the door close, glanced up, and saw his warm loving smile. Nick walked up to her, sat down on the table then showed her the gifts. She grinned, and accepted the gifts with a warm kiss upon his dry lips. Nick grinned, "How do you feel?" Molly sat up to face him, "Better now; thank you." "Good. Is there anything I can get you?" Nick inquired. Molly moved the blanket, leaned closer to him, "Well, how about we go upstairs, and we sleep in each other's arms." Nick thought for the moment, "Love, too." Molly grinned slightly, "Great." Molly carefully rolled the blanket up, Nick took the wine, and chocolates into the kitchen. They slowly walked up the stairs, down the hall, and into the bedroom. Molly prepared the bed while Nick strolled into the bathroom for a few moments, and exited wearing his lounge pants, and t-shirt. Molly strolled by him, lightly slapped his butt, and walked into the bathroom. Nick sat down on the edge of the bed; his side, and set the alarm for the morning. Molly quietly snuck up behind him, crawling across the bed like a cat. They warmly cuddled under the blankets, and slowly drifted off to sleep. The night hours slowly passed into a very sunny day outside. The sun shined through the blinds, and slightly lit up the room. Nick heard the alarm buzzing, and rolled over to turn it off. Nick rolled back, and saw Molly sleeping soundly. He carefully crawled out of the bed, and strolled into the bathroom. Nick ran the shower, and got all cleaned up. He leaned down turned the water off, and opened the door. Nick climbed out, and grabbed his towel, and dried his entire body off. He turned slightly, used the toilet then flushed it. He then wrapped the towel around his waist, and walked back into the bedroom. Nick walked over to his dresser, pulled out some work clothes, and got dressed for work. Nick strolled out of the bedroom, down the hall, and down the stairs. He strolled into the kitchen, and made a small pot of hot coffee. As he reached for a mug, a knock came from the door then it opened. Paul slowly strutted in, walked into the kitchen with Nick, and leaned upon the counter with his hands folded. Nick removed two mugs from the cabinet, and made two cups of coffee. He turned around, and carefully handed one to Paul. Paul took the mug, carefully sipped it, "Hey, Buddy." "Hey." Nick said in return. "How's Molly?" Paul inquired. Nick grinned, "Sleeping." Paul placed his mug down on the counter, "Cool. Guess what?" Nick felt slightly nervous; he too, placed his mug down, "What?" Paul stood erect, "Kathy found a hair on Tara's jacket, and she ran a DNA test." Nick eagerly jumped, "David." Paul scoffed with a slight laugh, "Nope. Joel Burton." Nick inhaled, "He was there." "After the fact; my guess, he saw the whole thing." Paul suggested. "Whoa." Nick whispered. Paul cleared his throat, "Try this out. David had a fit that Tara changed her mind. The stress and violence brought on early labor. As she delivered, he pulled the baby, and she bled to death. The baby drowned, and trauma shock. Ed assisted to the crime. Joel, some how saw; witnessed it, and got scared." Nick hesitated, thought for a few, "It fits; but, what if Joel was threatened not to tell." "He got scared." Paul insinuated, "What about Randy and Carrie?" Nick finished his coffee, placed his mug into the sink, "Nothing there, they're clean." "Let's go see Joel at Latham House." Paul suggested. "Done. After that, we meet Allen at his office to bring David down." Nick replied strongly. "Cool." Paul replied, "Is tonight still on?" Nick smiled widely, "Oh yeah. Everybody here for a pizza and beer party. Before that, LaCroix and I are picking up his car." "What did he pick?" Paul inquired. Nick sighed, "I promised." Paul exhaled, snapped his fingers, "Not fair." "Sorry. Let's go." Nick said. "Here's the cup." Paul said. Nick took the mug, placed into the sink; next to his, and returned to Paul. Nick, with Paul by his side, walked over to the table, picked up his things, and removed his gun from the small drawer; placed it into his belt. They quickly left the loft, rode down in the elevator, and outside to Nick's car. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened their door, and climbed in. They closed the doors, and Nick started the engine. Nick carefully backed up, and drove to the Latham House. Nick pulled up out front, and parked. He turned the engine off; they opened their door, and climbed out. They closed them; Nick locked them, and walked up the stairs. They quietly entered the building, and approached the desk. Paul saw Lisa standing by the desk; talking to Mary. They quickly approached her, and escorted her off to the side; for privacy. Lisa pulled her arm away, "Hello." "Hello. We need to talk to Joel Burton." Paul insisted. Lisa just glared into his face, "Follow me." Lisa escorted Nick and Paul down the hall, and walked to the end of the corridor. Lisa slowly opened the door, and they quietly walked in; across the floor. They saw Joel playing basketball at the other end. Lisa stood off to the side, Nick strolled one side, and Paul the other. Joel saw them slowly approaching; he knew, and suddenly stopped playing. He appeared nervous and scared. Nick approached him first, and Paul stood behind him; so he couldn't run. Nick took the ball and tossed it aside. Nick cleared his throat, "Hi Joel." "What's wrong?" Joel asked. "You're fingerprints were found at the scene; where Tara was found." Nick told him. "No." Joel said, with a slight whimper. Paul stepped up, "Joel, you saw what he did." Joel lowered his hands, and began to cry slightly. Nick moved closer to him; to comfort him. "Yes I did. He saw me outside and he threatened to kill my family; if I told anyone. I was so scared. My friend Tara, and my family; I love them both; I was…" he sobbed loudly. Nick embraced Joel to calm him down, "Its all right." "I should have---Tara." Joel cried. Nick wrapped both arms around Joel as he explained every detail of the horror he saw. Lisa witnessed the whole scene; she strolled across the floor, and approached Joel. She quietly escorted him away; to calm him down quietly. Nick and Paul glanced at each other then slowly walked out of the room; down the hall. They exited the building, walked down the stairs, and over to the caddy. Nick unlocked the doors; they opened their door, and climbed in. He started the engine, and quickly drove to the station. Nick drove along the curbside, parked, and turned the engine off. They opened their door, climbed out, and they closed them. Nick locked the doors, they ran up the stairs, and inside to Allen's office. Paul opened the door, and Nick closed the door behind them. They stood directly in front of his desk, and Allen stood to greet them. Nick grinned, "Allen, we spoke with Joel. He verified Ed's story." Allen rubbed his hands together, "Cool. Oh, he's history. Kathy called, Rubert finished that paternity test." "And?" Paul eagerly asked. Allen smiled, "David's 99.96 percent the daddy." "What about Karin?" Nick inquired. Allen sighed, "She knows, and she's gone." "Will she be here?" Paul questioned. "She wanted to be, but…" Allen started. "Makes sense." Nick finished for him. "True." Allen responded, "Okay, other room. You will hear everything in there. Ed's in there with Tony and Jack." "Okay, later." Nick said softly. Nick and Paul quickly left his office, and joined the other's in the interrogation room. A few moments passed, David opened the door, and entered Allen's office. He sat down in the chair, in the corner, and Allen walked around; sat on the edge of his desk. Allen glared into David's face, and he knew it was over. "David Vasal, married eight years, wife's name, Karin, five- foot-eight; maybe 185 pounds. Two children, you're forty years old, and have been a cop for almost twenty years." he read his file. David exhaled, "Yeah. Why am I here?" Allen stood up, faced him eye-to-eye, "David Vasal, you are under arrest for the murders of Tara Wilmont and Nelson Wilmont. Also, attempted assault on Joel Burton, Ed Zouls, and Joel's family. But most of all, for being THE WORST excuse for a human being." "No way," David replied angrily. "Friends and Forensics NEVER lie. You are going away for a very, very long time, and if we're lucky; death penalty for you." "No." David replied. "Guys, he's all yours. Call the cleaning crew; my office is dirty and it stinks." Allen requested. Suddenly, from the far right hallway, Nick, Paul, and Reese with Tony and Jack, walked out of the interrogation room, and entered Allen's office. Ed stood outside looking through the glass window; staring at David. Jack firmly placed the handcuff's on, and he glared at everyone. Nick stepped in front of Jack; Paul stayed close, Nick reached up, and ripped David's badge from his shirt then tossed it onto Allen's desk, and Tony escorted David out, and down the hall to booking. Paul tapped Nick's arm to draw his attention, "Hey, you okay?" Nick exhaled, "Yeah; he doesn't deserve to where that." "Agreed," Allen said. "Don't worry, his life is over." Paul said. Reese waved his hand to all three of them, "Take the rest of the day off." Paul cleared his throat, "Its night." Reese sighed, "Take Monday. See you two Tuesday morning. You too, Allen." Reese said. Nick smiled, "Thanks Cap." he said, turned to face his friends; "I'll see you guys at the loft. I need to see Lucien. He's getting his car." Allen grinned, clapped his hands together, "We'll see you at the loft, and celebrate the closing of this nightmare, and Lucien's new wheels. What did he get?" Nick smiled, exhaled, "You'll see. Later." Nick quickly walked out of Allen's office, and out of the building. He strolled down the stairs, and over to his car. Nick unlocked the door, opened it, and climbed in. He started the engine, pulled away, and quickly drove to the Raven. He carefully pulled up along side, and parked. Nick turned the engine off, opened his door, and climbed out. He closed it, locked it, and strolled into the club. Nick noticed the club was completely empty. No people; or vampires dancing, or drinking. But he saw LaCroix sitting on a stool with his head buried into his hands; not moving. Nick walked down the stairs, and quietly approached him. He placed a hand upon his upper back to draw his attention. LaCroix slowly turned to face Nick; his face was completely covered with tears; he had been crying. Nick placed his hand upon LaCroix's forearm, to comfort him, "LaCroix, what is it?" LaCroix sniffed his tears, "Like you before, all the lives I've taken, all the memories, and the pain flooded me. It hurts me so much." Nick squeezed his arm, "I remember, and I'm sorry." LaCroix glanced directly into Nick's eyes, "Most of all, what pains me the most, what I had done to you." Nick sighed, "Don't." "Please," LaCroix whispered. "All right." Nick sighed. LaCroix stood to face him, "Nicholas, you are, and always will be my son here, from that life. I am so sorry for all the pain, and torment I had caused you then. In this life, we are cousins; brothers, but mostly family; which pleases me to no end, but also, my closest and dearest friend. I feel truly honored; I don't deserve…" Nick, tear-filled, "LaCroix, I'm touched, and feel the same way towards you. You are my father, I'm your cousin, brother; we're family. Also my closest and dearest friend. I forgive, and forget all that was done." "Thank you." LaCroix whispered. Nick glanced into his father's eyes, and smiled lovingly. Nick reached over, LaCroix embraced his son; they held each other as tight as possible; filled with love. Suddenly, from high above, a soft white glowing light emanated from their embrace; there forgiveness then they separated to gaze upon the glow, and each other. They looked around them then to each other. LaCroix inhaled slightly, "Nicholas, what…" Nick grinned, "You have been forgiven from both of us." Nick smiled then LaCroix, "Thank you." LaCroix replied softly. "LaCroix, get Jamie. My place for a huge pizza and beer party." Nick insisted. "Everyone." LaCroix inquired. Nick grinned, "All OUR friends will be there." "I'm not…" LaCroix started. Nick glanced into his eyes, "Bring Natalie's journals, its time we begin the process she created." "Are you sure?" LaCroix questioned. Nick exhaled, "Yeah. Come on, I'll take you to the car lot to pick it up." LaCroix grinned, "All right. Jamie's upstairs; wait here." "Sure." Nick replied. Nick waited at the bar while LaCroix walked by him into the backroom, and up the steps. LaCroix entered the room, and saw Jamie sitting on the couch; drinking a glass of red wine, and reading a book. LaCroix grinned, strolled over, and leaned on the back of the couch; by her head. They warmly kissed each other, "Hello." "Hi." Jamie said all smiles. "Nicholas is here, he will take us to get the car, and he has invited us over for a pizza and beer party with our friends. Care to join in?" Jamie glanced into his eyes, "Our friends." LaCroix smiled, "Yes." Jamie laughed slightly, "Love to, let's go." Jamie placed her book and glass down upon the table, and followed LaCroix out of their room. They joined Nick by the bar; waiting patiently. LaCroix placed a hand upon Nick's shoulder, and they slowly left the Raven. They strolled over to Nick's caddy, and Nick unlocked the doors. LaCroix opened the door to the backseat, Jamie stepped in, and he closed it. Nick and LaCroix opened their door, stepped in, and closed them. Nick started the engine, pulled away, and quickly drove to the car lot; a few miles away. Nick noticed the car lot, put his directional on, and slowly drove into the lot. Nick parked the caddy along side of the building, and turned the engine off. Nick and LaCroix opened their door, stepped out, and closed them. LaCroix opened Jamie's door, she climbed out, and he closed it. Nick locked the doors, and they strolled inside of the building. A gentleman, clean-cut; wearing a blue business suit, approached them; hands folded, and grinned, "Hello. I'm Charles, can I help you?" Charles asked politely. LaCroix cleared his throat, "Yes. I'm Lucien LaCroix, I'm here to pick up my car." Charles thought for a moment, "Oh yes, wait here." Charles slowly left for a few moments; to the office in the back, returned with the papers to the car, and the keys. He quickly handed LaCroix the things, shook hands, and bid them farewell. Nick, LaCroix, and Jamie left the building, saw LaCroix's new car parked next to the caddy. They slowly approached the car, and gazed upon it. LaCroix grinned ear-to-ear, and Jamie held LaCroix around his waist. Nick was shocked by the view, but not surprised by what he bought. Nick cleared his throat, "That's quite the car." LaCroix grinned, "Thank you." "It's all legal." Nick asked; being the official cop he is. LaCroix glanced over to Nick's face, "Yes, and there's the license plate." Nick looked downward upon the vanity plate, and laughed, "Perfect, Raven 1." "Thank you." LaCroix said with a slight laugh. Nick slapped LaCroix's upper arm, "I'll see you at the loft." LaCroix tossed the keys, "Lead the way." LaCroix laughed slightly as Nick slowly returned to his caddy. LaCroix looked over to Jamie, gave her a quick kiss upon her soft cheek. He took her by the hand, escorted her to the passenger side of the car, and opened her door. Jamie stepped in; he closed the door, and walked around to his side. LaCroix opened the door, stepped in, and closed the door. LaCroix closely examined his new environment, laughed slightly, and started the engine. He noticed they gave him a full tank of gas. LaCroix carefully drove his car around, and behind Nick's caddy. He tooted his horn to tell Nick lead the way to the loft. Nick slowly drove out of the car lot, and led the way home; to the loft. As Nick pulled up, drove into his space; LaCroix hesitated, and waited. They saw everyone was outside waiting to see LaCroix's new wheels. LaCroix carefully drove his car into the garage, and parked next to the caddy. LaCroix turned the engine off, opened his door, and climbed out. He walked around to Jamie, and opened her door. He extended his hand, helped Jamie out of the car, and closed the door. LaCroix locked the doors, set the alarm, and noticed everyone was staring at the car; shocked looks all around. Molly joined Nick by his side, kissed him warmly, and they joined LaCroix; by the car. Paul moved up, grinned, "Okay, Lucien, introduce us to your new toy." LaCroix escorted Jamie away, stood by Nick, "All right. It's a 2005 Mercedes Benz; s-class sedan, four doors, all the trimmings, and a huge trunk; black metallic with black velvet interior, with silver chrome trim." Paul whistled, "I'm impressed." "Me, too," Allen said, agreeing. LaCroix gave a slight bow, "Thank you." "Very nice," Michael added to the list. Nick clapped his hands together, "Okay gang, up to the loft for fun, pizza, and beer. Molly, take Jamie up, I'll be there in a few." Molly smiled, "All right. Love you." Nick smiled, "Love you, too." Molly looked around Nick and LaCroix, "Jamie." LaCroix gently kissed Jamie's hand, "See you upstairs." he said softly. "All right." Jamie replied, kissing his dry lips. Molly escorted Jamie with everyone behind them into the elevator, and up to the loft. LaCroix stood close to Nick's side, and touched his side. Nick quickly looked at his hand then his face. He noticed LaCroix had a slight tan to his pale skin. Nick reached up, and gently touched LaCroix's face. Nick suddenly, realized, his body had heat, and skin color. "You're warm." Nick said, shocked. LaCroix turned to face him, "It happened while we were driving here." Nick, stunned, smiled, "You have a slight body temperature." LaCroix sighed, "Yes. I feel so different, and yet…" Nick relaxed, smiled warmly, "I'm sure. That's fantastic. Let's go celebrate. When I get back from my trip, we'll begin Natalie's journals." "I'll read them, and make sure we have all we need." LaCroix recommended. Nick slapped LaCroix's forearm, "Great. Let's party friend." LaCroix slightly laughed back, "Shall we; friend." Nick and LaCroix slightly embraced each other, laughed, and slowly entered the elevator; rode up to the loft with their family and friends. Molly and Jamie stood by the chair, each holding a beer for them. They each kissed their lady, and joined in on the fun, love, and celebration. Celebrating, case closed; Nick and Molly's future, and LaCroix's new car. Celebrating, friendship, friends, and family. But mostly, the new found relationship between Nick and LaCroix; father and son, cousins, brothers; perhaps all the above.