Impressions
By: Cheryl Pillsbury

     As Nick and LaCroix sat down upon the couch with a glass of
wine sharing some conversation together; we travel along the night
winds to the West Side of the park.  A young man was enjoying the
night air and a long casual walk.  He carried a book with him, and
observed the scenery as he walked along the path.  He came across a
juice machine, and fished through his pockets looking for some
change.  He placed the coins in the slot and pushed the button for
some water.  The bottle quickly fell; he removed it then continued on
the path to a huge willow tree in the center of the West Side of the
park.  He carefully squatted down, and sat under the tree.  He placed
the bottle along his right side, opened the book, and relaxed.  He
inhaled the fresh air, and the soft scents of the night.  The
moonlight shined through the limbs of the tree allowing him to read
with ease.
     The gentle breeze blew through, and caused a slight whistle in
the tree, suddenly, a slight growl.  He became startled looking all
around for the moment, and saw nothing.  He quickly returned to his
book, and opened the water bottle.  He took a few sips to settle his
nerves then closed it.  He tried to read, but lacked the
concentration he once had.  After a few moments, the growl returned,
but it seemed closer.  He closed the book, and picked up the bottle. 
He stood on his knees, and walked around the tree to look at every
angle.  He made his way back to the spot where he was sitting, and
sat down.  Feeling a little frustrated, he opened the bottle, and
sipped a little more water.  As he lifted the bottle up, at the
corner of his eye, he saw a huge dog standing very close to him, his
mouth drooling, and snarling at him.  He was terrified to move, but
dropped the bottle in complete fear.
     The dog took a few steps towards him, snarling and growling,
almost constantly.  His eyes turned blood red, the young man shocked,
and paralyzed.  Suddenly, the dog lurched at him, and attacked his
throat first.  The man screamed, and yelled in pain.  The dog
snarled, and literally ripped him apart.  The flesh and blood flew
everywhere.  The dog scratched the tree, and just dug away at his
victim.  The dog stood a few inches away, and relaxed.  He licked his
chops, and slowly stepped away from the scene.  The scene was
horrific, and bloody, and not much left.  The dog slowly walked
through the woods, and over to the center of the park.  He saw a man
sitting on the bench.  He slowly approached him sitting in front of
him, and stared at him.  He reached over, and patted the top of his
head.
     "Saben, that's a good boy.  Are you done?"  The dog barked
twice and wagged his tail in a happy friendly way, "Me too."
     He placed the strap onto his collar, and showed him it was time
to walk.  They slowly headed out of the park, and headed for home
while back at Nick's home, they had just finished the movie, and
LaCroix did not look pleased.  Nick was in the corner of the couch
with a big grin on his face.  We peeked at the television screen, and
their watching an old classic vampire movie.  As the credits started
to roll up, LaCroix picked up the glasses, and went into the kitchen.
He carefully placed them in the sink, and Nick observed every
movement he made.  Nick sat up, and cleared his throat.
     "What did you think?"  Nick asked laughing.
     LaCroix strolled over to the couch and looked at Nick directly
eye to eye, "I'm not impressed."
     "It's just a movie," Nick expressed.
     LaCroix felt he was loosing then decided to let it slide,
"Nicholas, it's getting late, time to rest, let's go,"
     Nick slowly sat back on the couch, and lowered his head, "I'm
not tired,"
     LaCroix crossed his arms in front of him, and sighed, "Are you
still bothered by the letter?"
     "A little," Nick whispered.
     LaCroix scoffed, "Time heals old wounds."
     "I guess," Nick mumbled.
     "Time to rest, you have your work later, and I need to return
to the Raven."  LaCroix recommended.
     Nick slowly stood up, and met LaCroix at the stairwell, "How's
business?"
     "Fine," LaCroix replied.
     Before LaCroix could finish his response, a sudden urge came
across his senses, and Nick caught him at the forearm.  As they
turned towards the door, two men dressed in black suits with over-
sized hats and dark glasses appeared.  LaCroix stepped in front of
Nick to protect him.  With the canes in hand they took a few steps
toward them, but LaCroix put up a hand to express that was far
enough.  Nick was very nervous, but he stayed where LaCroix put him.
     "Who are they?"  Nick asked softly.
     "Stay there, and don't move."  LaCroix ordered.
     One man stepped up, and announced himself to LaCroix, "I am Sir
Munzo, we have been sent to observe Nicholas and his memory."  Munzo
said.
     "He has no memory of what he was."  LaCroix said.
     "He remembers you," Munzo replied, stepping closer.
     "He remembers our friendship; not what I am."  LaCroix
explained, and continued, "But, if we continue this, you may refresh
his memory.  Stop and discuss this later."
     "LaCroix?" Nick began.
     "Nicholas, go up stairs and sleep.  I will finish this, go
now."  LaCroix ordered quietly.
     "Night," Nick said softly.
     LaCroix turned his attention towards the men.  He crossed his
arms in front of him, trying to be patient.
     "I am Tian; explain his condition."  Tian demanded.
     "Six months ago, Nicholas regained his humanity; his soul.  The
memories of him being a vampire have disappeared.  He remembered me
the longest; but I have noticed the other day that memory is also
fading."  LaCroix explained.
     "How can you tell?"  Tian asked.
     "He forgot to call and invite me for lunch with his friend Paul
at the pizza place."  LaCroix told him.
     "How long before that memory fades?"  Tian questioned.
     "Not sure," LaCroix answered. "And if he doesn't?"
     "We will erase it, or…?"  Tian queried.
     LaCroix felt his anger building, but tried to maintain it, "No!
He can not be touched by evil."
     "You have touched him."  Munzo spoke directly.
     "I'm his friend; I will handle it."  LaCroix said, angrily.
     Sir Munzo removed his glasses, and stared down at LaCroix, "I'm
not."
     LaCroix stepped closer, and they stood nose-to-nose, "My way."
     The men stepped away, and converted in silence.  As they stood
there, LaCroix observed their behavior.
     "We will stay, and observe him.  If he still maintains your
memory after your way, we will intervene."  Munzo ordered.
     "I understand, but be warned.  Touch what is no longer ours,
and beware of the punishment."  LaCroix said.
     "Punishment?" Tian asked, confused.
     "Yes, I was told that night.  I thought it fair to share that
burden with you."  LaCroix replied. 
     "Bye, LaCroix," Munzo said.
     "Night," LaCroix whispered.
     LaCroix turned towards the stairwell, and hesitated.  He turned
slightly, and they had vanished.  He slowly climbed the stairs, and
strolled down into Nick's room.  He walked in, and saw Nick sitting
in the chair waiting for him.
     "Nicholas," LaCroix said.
     "Who were those guys?"  Nick asked, slightly worried.
     "Old acquaintances from another time."  LaCroix answered.
     "What was that about my memory? I'm fine," Nick said, firmly.
     "Agreed, I told them.  I took care of it, now get some sleep." 
LaCroix said.
     "Night, LaCroix," Nick said a little calmer.
     "Night," LaCroix said, smiling.
     LaCroix just grinned at him, and slowly walked out of the room
headed for his to rest.  Nick slowly removed his shoes and socks.  He
stood up, and stripped down to his pants.  He stumbled over to his
dresser, and pulled out his nightclothes.  He walked into the
bathroom, and closed the door halfway, a slight pause; and then a
flush.  He changed into his nightclothes walking out, and crawled
into bed.  He removed his watch, and placed it on the nightstand.  He
turned the light off, and slowly drifted off to a deep peaceful sleep.
     After they rested comfortably, Reese was sitting in his office
back at the station.  He was eyeball deep in paperwork.  He scratched
his head, and sipped on his coffee with a sigh after every sip. 
Suddenly, his phone rang.  He jumped a foot, and rubbed his face from
the stress.  He quickly picked up the phone, and nervously answered
it.
     "Reese," Reese announced.
     "Sir, we got a call about a mangled body in the park."  Jack
explained.
     "Damn, Jack, grab Tony, and let's roll; I'll meet you there,"
Reese said, picking up the phone, and pushed one button, "Doc, got
one in the park,"
     Reese closed the file, and turned the lights off.  He strolled
out of the building, and saw Jack and Tony waiting outside to join
him.  He decided to ride with them, and sat in the passenger seat. 
Jack turned the lights and sirens on, and they peeled away from the
curb.
     *****
     They arrived at the park, and parked the car along the curb. 
They strolled up the path, and their eyes filled with horror.  It was
too much for Tony; he ducked away, and vomited behind a small bush
then slowly returned.  The tall willow tree completely scratched up,
and filled with bloodstains.  The body in pieces lying in a pool of
blood with blood stained leaves surrounding it.  Doctor Michaels saw
Reese in the distance.  She slowly stood up, and walked around the
scene to meet up with him.  She pulled down the mask so she could
talk clearly.
     "What's the bad news besides the obvious?"  Reese asked.
     "Well, not much for visual identification.  We'll have to use
dental records and maybe a fingerprint to identify him."  Michaels
reported.
     "It's male?" Reese inquired.
     "That's the only part fully intact."  Michaels whispered.
     Reese sighed, "Ideas?"
     "Animal attack," Michaels guessed.
     "A dog or worse," Reese questioned.
     "A dog, for now, and a real mean one.  I'm going to call in an
animal specialist to help with this one."  Michaels recommended.
     "Good idea; keep me posted.  Put a file together and we will
talk later.  I'll bring Knight and Coletti in on this one."  Reese
suggested.
     "Okay," Michaels replied.
     Reese told Jack to hang back and told Tony to take him back to
the station.  As Reese entered the building, and headed for his
office; Lisa saw him and silently asked the woman to wait.  She
followed Reese to his office sitting in his chair, and rubbed his
face from the horrific scene he witnessed.  Lisa gently knocked on
the door to draw his attention.
     "Yes," Reese said.
     "There's a woman out here looking for her brother.  He didn't
come home last night."  Lisa reported.
     "Send her in and bring some coffee, please."  Reese requested.
     "Sure," Lisa said.
     Lisa left, and showed the woman the way in.  Reese offered her
a seat, and she sat down nervously.
     "I'm Captain Reese; I understand your brother is missing. 
Where was he?"  Reese inquired.
     She cleared her throat to speak clearly, "I'm Terry Hussey.  My
brother Carlton went out for a walk in the park as he does every
night.  He never came home last night.  He's never late."  Terry
informed him.
     "Can you tell me what he looks like?"  Reese asked.
     "I have a picture of him."  Terry replied.
     Terry opened her purse searching through every pocket, and the
sides.  She finally found the picture, and gave it a quick glance. 
She slowly handed it to Reese, and she placed it carefully upon his
desk.
     "Thank you; do you remember what he was wearing?"  Reese asked.
     "Gray sweat suit and white sneakers.  Please find him.  He's
all I have left."  Terry told him, with a tear slowly rolling down
her cheek.
     "I will put this together and I will start looking right away."
Reese said to reassure her.
     "Thank you, here is my card; you can reach me there."  Terry
replied.
     "Okay, we'll be in touch."  Reese responded.
     "Thank you," Terry said, slightly sobbing.
     Terry slowly left his office with her heart hanging very low. 
Reese rubbed his face in fear they have already found him.  He gave
his watch a quick glance, and it said two o'clock.  He picked up the
phone, and slowly dialed Nick's home.
     *****
     Back at home, the windows were closed, and he was curled up in
a ball on the couch with a hot cup of coffee, watching the news. 
Suddenly, the phone rang, and it gave him a jolt.  He reached over,
and picked up the phone.
     "Knight," Nick announced.
     "Hey, Nick, it's Reese," Reese told him.
     "What's up?"  Nick asked.
     "I need you and Paul here now.  There was an animal attack last
night.  A man was killed, mangled actually."  Reese informed him.
     "I'll call Paul," Nick told Reese.
     "Thanks, Nick," Reese said with a sigh.
     "Anytime, Cap," Nick replied.
     Nick hung up the phone, and finished the last sip of coffee. 
He reached for the remote, and turned the television off.  He walked
into the kitchen placing the mug in the sink, and headed for the
stairs.  He climbed up, and went into his room.  As he entered the
room; LaCroix was behind him standing in the doorway.
     "Nicholas," LaCroix uttered.
     Nick turned his head, and saw him there, "Hi, I have got to go
in."
     "Has something happened?"  LaCroix questioned.
     "An animal attack; a man was killed."  Nick answered.
     "What kind of animal?"  LaCroix asked.
     "Don't know, tell you later.  I need to shower and get
dressed."  Nick replied.
     "I'll be at the Raven."  LaCroix told him.
     "Great, I will see you there.  Have a beer ready."  Nick
requested.
     LaCroix just chuckled slightly at the remark, and slowly left
him to his duties.  Nick slowly went into the bathroom, and closed
the door halfway.  A few moments passed, and he started the shower
then quickly jumped in for a fast shower.  He turned the water off,
and stepped out.  He dried off his entire body, and wrapped the towel
around his waist.  He walked into his room over to the dresser
picking out the clothes for work, and strolled over to the bed.  He
loosened the towel, and got dressed.  He moved over to the mirror
fixing his hair leaning over to his nightstand, and picked up his
watch.  He walked down the corridor, and to the stairwell.  He walked
over to the table by the couch picking up his things, and headed for
the front door.  He opened then closed, and rode down the elevator to
his car.  He opened the door, climbed in, and started the engine.  He
put the car in reverse, and backed out.  He looked both ways pulling
into traffic, and headed for the building.
     Nick spotted an empty spot out front of the station, and pulled
right into it.  He parked the car, and climbed out.  He ran up the
stairs, and inside.  As he strolled in, he saw Paul and Reese waiting
for him at his desk.  As he approached, he noticed they were not
happy.
     "Let's go where it's private.  Doctor Michaels is on her way." 
Reese suggested.
     Reese led the way to the interrogation room.  Nick and Paul
followed closely behind.  As they entered the room, Dr. Michaels
stepped in quickly before the door closed on her.
     "Last night, a man was attacked by a wild animal.  He was
literally torn apart."  Reese briefed them.
     "Where?" Paul asked.
     "The park, West Side," Reese told him.
     "Dog?" Nick inquired.
     "Maybe, now, a woman was here earlier looking for her brother. 
He never came home this morning.  He went for a walk in the park." 
Reese explained.
     "Any clues?" Paul asked.
     "The tree was scratched up, and they were filled with blood." 
Michaels briefed.
     "Doc, fill us in on what you got."  Reese asked politely.
     Michaels passed out copies of the report so they could follow
along, "Well, we ran the dental records and a fingerprint, he's been
positively identified as Carlton Hussy, thirty-three years old, brown
hair, and blue eyes.  About two hundred and ten pounds, and his body
was literally torn apart, but about half of his blood supply is
missing."
     "Half gone," Paul mumbled.
     "We found blood in and around the body and in the tree.  That's
it.  I can say some of it sank into the ground.  But, there's a lot
of it missing."  Michaels explained.
     "That's odd," Nick commented.
     "Very," Reese said adding on to his comment.
     "I called an animal specialist; she'll be here to assist if
needed.  She's checking all the Zoo's and dog pounds to see if
anybody is missing."  Michaels said.
     "I think Paul and I will check out the scene."  Nick suggested.
     "Wear gloves; It's still taped off, plus I'm waiting to see if
the blood's clean."  Michaels told him.
     "Okay," Nick answered to agree with her suggestion.
     "Okay, do that and we will get together later?  Let us stop
this before it gets out of hand.  Nick, this is the address of the
sister.  She may be helpful."  Reese implied.
     Nick took the card stiffly, "Great, thanks,"
     "Be gentle," Reese requested.
     "Let's go," Nick said passing a hint to Paul.
     They each gathered up their own files, and paraded out of the
room.  Reese headed for his office, and waited for more information. 
Doctor Michaels went back to the lab, and waited for the results. 
Nick and Paul quickly walked out of the building, and outside.  They
strolled over to Nick's car, carefully climbing in on their own side,
and buckled up.  Nick grabbed his keys, giving the address a quick
glance, and handed it to Paul.  He started up the engine, and put the
car in gear.  He slowly backed out, and drove into traffic.  Paul sat
there pondering the next step, and appeared a little nervous.  He
slightly turned in his seat, and faced Nick.
     "How do you want to handle this?"  Paul asked.
     Nick thought for the moment, and tilted his eyes towards him,
"Don't mention his body being mangled."
     "Agreed, but what about the blood loss?"  Paul inquired.
     "No," Nick whispered.
     "No, I mean, what would we do about that?"  Paul asked.
     Nick placed a puzzled look upon his face, "No clue, we're
almost there, you ready?"
     "No, but, I'll do my best."  Paul said, slightly nervous.
     "Okay," Nick replied.
     Nick saw the house, and slowly pulled into the driveway.  He
put the car in park, and turned the engine off.  They quietly climbed
out of the car, and slowly walked up the path to the front door.
     A young woman came to the door, and appeared worn.  She saw
them standing there, and turned the light on.  She strained to look
through the screen.
     "Yes," Terry said.
     "Detective Coletti and I'm Detective Knight; may we come in?" 
Nick asked.
     Terry unlocked the screen door, and opened it for them to
enter, "Yes,"
     They passed by, and waited for her to close the door.  Terry
led the way to the living room, and showed them where they may sit. 
They sadly folded their hands in front of them, and looked toward her
tear-filled eyes.
     "It's Carlton, isn't it?"  Terry asked, slightly sobbing.
     Nick stepped up, and sat down by her side, "Yes,"
     Terry took in a deep breath to ask the worst question yet,
"He's…?"
     Nick lowered his head, and faced her with his hanky in hand,
"Yes, I am sorry; we found him this morning."
     "Oh my, Carlton," Terry sobbed.
     Nick placed his hand upon her forearm to try to comfort her. 
Paul walked over to try to help Nick.
     "Here, I am sorry for your loss, but we need to ask you a few
questions.  We need to know was there anyone who wanted to hurt him."
Nick asked.
     "No, he was a very quiet shy man."  Terry expressed.
     "Did he work?"  Paul added.
     "Yes, he was a guard at the Gautreau Art Gallery."  Terry said
sniffing.
     "Did he act any different?"  Nick questioned.
     Terry hesitated for a few moments to reflect back, "Two nights
go; he came home an hour late.  When I asked what happened, he did
not answer me.  He seemed nervous.  Almost afraid,"
     "Something with his job," Paul joined in.
     Terry looked up at him, "I don't know, he never said."
     Nick reached into his shirt pocket, and pulled out a white
card, "Thanks for your time, here's my card, call if you remember
anything else."
     Terry reached up, shockingly took the card, and looked into
Nick's eyes, "Thanks,"
     Paul looked at her sad face, "We're very sorry for your loss."
     "Thank you," Terry said softly.
     Nick stood up, and tapped Paul on his forearm it was time to
leave.  They quietly walked out of the room, and let themselves out. 
Paul locked the door behind him, and they slowly walked towards the
car.  They each climbed in on their own side, and closed the doors. 
Nick pulled out the keys, and placed the car in reverse then backed
out of the driveway.  He slowly put the car in drive, and headed for
the park.  Paul appeared a little lost.
     "Now what?" Paul inquired.
     Nick cleared his throat, and his mind, to concentrate on the
next task. "The crime scene before it gets too dark, then a beer."
     Paul sat back and rode, "Coolness,"
     As they approached the park; Nick looked for a good spot.  He
saw one along the curb.  He carefully pulled in, and parked the car. 
He turned the engine off, and leaned over to Paul.
     "Let's go," Nick said.
     They quickly exited the car, and Nick locked the doors.  They
met up at the path, and slowly started to walk down.  They observed
every little thing in their way.  They saw the yellow tape, and
carefully stepped over it.  Nick pulled out the gloves from his
pocket, and handed them to Paul.  Nick went on one side, and Paul the
other then met in the middle.  Paul examined the tree from all sides,
and saw a tooth imbedded.  He reached for his hanky, and pulled it
out.  He placed it in the hanky then into his pocket.  As he did, he
saw a footprint just below him.
     "Nick, look here," Paul replied.
     Nick walked over very carefully, and knelt down to meet Paul. 
He pointed to what he found, and showed it to Nick.
     "What do you make of that?"  Paul asked.
     Nick stared at it, "That's odd."
     "If it is a dog, it has one extra toe on its foot?"  Paul
queried.
     "Did you bring your book and pen?"  Nick asked.
     "Yeah," Paul answered.
     "Draw a picture the best you can.  I want Doc and that
specialist to see this." Nick recommended.
     "Cool," Paul said.
     Nick stood up, and returned to his side.  Paul pulled out his
notebook and pen from his pocket, and very carefully began to draw
the footprint of the dog.  He finished the drawing, and met Nick at
his side.  They brushed off their clothes, and headed back to the
car.  They climbed in, and he started the engine.  He quickly drove
to the Raven, parking off to the side, and exited the car.
     Nick locked the doors, and led the way inside the Raven.  Nick
spotted two empty stools at the bar, and showed him the way.  They
quickly walked in, and sat down.  They each took a deep breath, and
Nick flagged down the bartender.  Nick stared at him, and felt as
though they had met before.
     "Don't I know you?"  Nick asked.
     "Yes, we met yesterday."  Tian said.
     Nick hesitated for a moment, "LaCroix's friend,"
     "Okay, yes," Tian replied.
     "I'm glad you decided to stay a while."  Nick said.
     "A week or so," Tian expressed.
     "Good, two beers please," Nick requested.
     "Sure," Tian answered.
     Tian strolled over to the tap, and prepared the two beers.  He
filled two tall frosty glasses, and walked them over to Nick and
Paul.  He placed them in front of them, and walked away.  Nick and
Paul touched glasses in a small toast, and gulped the beer.  LaCroix
strolled in, and saw Nick sitting at the bar.  He walked over, and
stood at his side.  He sensed Nick was a little off.
     "Nicholas, you all right?" LaCroix inquired.
     "Yeah, I just needed a beer."  Nick said softly.
     "Has something happened?"  LaCroix questioned.
     "Yeah, Paul, you got that picture?"  Nick inquired of Paul.
     "Yeah," Paul answered.
     Paul reached into his pocket, and pulled out his notebook.  He
flipped through the pages to find the picture, and handed it to him.
     "Here," Paul said.
     "A man was attacked by a wild dog last night."  Nick briefed
LaCroix.
     "A wild dog you say."  LaCroix said.
     "Yeah, have a look.  He drew a picture of the paw print.  This
dog has four toes instead of three."  Nick pulled out his hanky, and
displayed the tooth he had found and showed that to him as well,
"and, I found this,"
     LaCroix rolled the tooth around, and closely examined the
picture.  He feared what was loose among the people.
     "A fang, four toed dog.  It's a rare dog, very rare."  LaCroix
replied.
     "Do you know what it is?  Can you help?"  Nick said, slightly
pleading.
     LaCroix raised his hand, and showed Nick his grin, "I'll help
you.  Let me work on it.  We'll talk later,"
     "But…"  Nick started.
     "Finish your beer.  I need to discuss this with a friend to be
sure and we'll discuss it at home."  LaCroix said to ease his nerves.
     "Sure," Nick whispered.
     "Where did this happen?"  LaCroix inquired.
     "In the park, West Side.  The tape is still up."  Nick answered.
     "I see, thanks," LaCroix replied.
     Nick pulled money out from his pocket, and LaCroix placed his
hand on his arm to suggest; no payment necessary.  Nick just smiled,
and turned to Paul.
     "Let's go," Nick said.
     "Okay," Paul said.
     They finished the last gulp of beer, and placed the glasses
down.  They quickly stood up, and left the Raven.  They strolled
outside, and walked over to Nick's car.  They climbed in, and Nick
started the engine.  He carefully observed his surroundings, and
pulled away from the curb.  He quickly drove to the station, and
dropped off Paul at his car then waved to him.  Nick slowly drove
home, and parked his car.  He stumbled into the elevator, and rode up
to his place.  He bent over, grabbed the mail, and opened the door.
     The door closed automatically behind him.  He tossed his jacket
onto the chair, and stepped over to the couch.  He leaned over
picking up the remote, and he turned the television on then placed it
on the coffee table.  He collapsed onto the couch, and covered his
tired eyes with his forearm.  He felt a slight breeze over his body,
and looked out from under his arm.  He saw LaCroix standing over him.
Nick sat up on the couch; LaCroix walked over to the other side, and
sat next to him.
     "What did you find out?"  Nick asked.
     LaCroix rubbed his chin looking to Nick, and tried to explain
without fear, "It appears to be a rare dog.  A rare breed if you
will."
     "You mean; somebody made this dog?"  Nick asked, puzzled.
     "Possibly, a Carouche was a very rare breed of dog.  Thought
extinct centuries ago."  LaCroix replied.
     "How can I find it?"  Nick inquired.
     "I'm not sure; I'm still waiting on a friend to help answer
that."  LaCroix answered.
     "What exactly is a Carouche?"  Nick asked quietly.
     LaCroix hesitated for the moment.  Nick just looked, and
observed his silence.  Before LaCroix could answer the question, he
sensed Munzo and Tian nearby listening to what they were discussing.
     "It's known in ancient times that a Carouche is an animal-lower
form of a vampire."  LaCroix explained.
     Nick just chuckled slightly at what he was suggesting, "A what?"
     LaCroix cleared his throat, forgotten all of his past life
memories, and knowledge, "A Carouche is a lower form of a vampire."
     Nick laughed slightly, "No way, no such thing,"
     "Really, this footprint is very rare and very old.  I have
dealt with this kind before."  LaCroix said.
     "The dog or a vampire?"  Nick inquired.
     LaCroix definitely saw he was truly human, "The dog, of course.
Get some rest, and we'll try tonight."
     "Okay, I'll call Paul."  Nick suggested.
     "It's best if we're alone."  LaCroix implied.
     "Okay, see you later."  Nick said as he slowly left the room,
and headed for the stairs to his room.
     Munzo and Tian strolled into the living room to face LaCroix
and the matter at hand.  LaCroix stood to face them, very seriously,
"As you can see, he doesn't remember."
     "We'll see," Munzo said.
     LaCroix picked up a slight disturbance, and looked to Munzo
directly.
     "Did you release a Carouche to test him?"  LaCroix asked
directly.
     They stared at him very strongly.  They slowly turned starting
to walk away, and they vanished before his eyes.  LaCroix felt the
answer was yes.  He knew what task was ahead of him.  He swooped up
the staircase standing in the doorway, and waited for Nick to appear.
     LaCroix entered the room and sat down in the chair by the
window.  As he crossed his legs, he heard the toilet flush.  The door
opened, and Nick walked out; saw him there relaxing.  LaCroix stood
up strolling over to the doorway, and stood still with his hands
crossed in front of him.
     "Scott, will meet us in the park."  LaCroix told him.
     "Who's Scott?"  Nick asked.
     "You don't remember Scott."  LaCroix said.
     "No.  Should I?" Nick inquired.
     "He's the one who cared for your home while you were ill." 
LaCroix answered.
     Nick thought for a few, and shook his head, "No, sorry,"
     "He's the expert with Carouche's."  LaCroix expressed.
     "Great, time to rest and then to the park," Nick said, slightly
tired.
     "I'll be in my room waiting for Scott."  LaCroix said.
     "Okay, wake me up when its time to go."  Nick requested.
     "All right," Nick whispered.
     LaCroix watched Nick crawl into bed turning to face the window,
and slowly drifted off to sleep.  LaCroix left very quietly strolling
down to his room, and saw that Scott was standing in the middle of
the room.
     "LaCroix," Scott uttered.
     "Hello, Scott," LaCroix said in greeting.
     LaCroix slowly closed the door to keep their conversation very
private.
     "What is my task this time?"  Scott asked.
     LaCroix sat on the corner of the bed and looked to Scott, "It
appears; Nicholas has no memory of vampires of any kind."
     "None," Scott inquired.
     "He remembers he and I were friends, family.  He does not
remember you, nor the Enforcers, or the community if you will.  They
have come here to test his memory.  They have released a Carouche,
and it has killed once, so far.  We need to stop this before it gets
out of hand."  LaCroix explained.
     "They won't like it."  Scott told him.
     "Oh well," LaCroix replied.
     "You could be punished for interfering."  Scott expressed.
     LaCroix stood to face Scott, "I won't let them harm Nicholas."
     Scott hesitated at that thought, "I'm in, where do we start?"
     "When its dark out, Nicholas will take us where the attack was,
and then we shall see.  For now, rest."  LaCroix recommended.
     Scott looked around the room and saw the closet in the corner,
"Okay, I'll take the closet."
     "All right," LaCroix said softly.
     They went to their neutral places to rest for the day.  In the
heart of the city, we floated around the Art Gallery.  A young woman
walked slowly down the corridor, and headed for a small office at the
far left corner.  Before she entered the office, a guard approached
her, and greeted her with a smile.
     "Miss. Ebourn," Harry said to announce his presence.
     "It's Molly, hey, Harry.  What's up?"  Molly asked.
     "I just got a call from Carlton's sister, Terry.  He was killed
in the park the other night."  Harry informed her.
     Molly covered her mouth in shock, and took in a deep breath,
"Poor Carlton.  How's Terry handling it?"
     "She's pretty shaken up."  Harry told her.
     Molly gently reached up, and touched his upper arm, "Call her
back, and let her know if she needs anything at all, to call me,
okay?"
     "Sure thing," Harry answered.
     "I need to check on that painting we sold yesterday.  Do you
have your key?"  Molly questioned.
     "Yeah, let's go."  Harry said.
     Harry held the key, and led the way into a small room where the
painting hung in a glass case.  Harry reached up unlocking the case,
and slowly opened the door.  Molly noticed something was different
about the picture.  She gently reached up, and touched the painting. 
Suddenly, the picture slowly drifted to the floor, and landed at her
feet in shock of the painting being gone caused her to cry slightly. 
She sniffed her tears back, and looked to Harry.
     "Harry, call the Police, the painting is gone."  Molly said,
slightly upset.
     "Right away," Harry said.
     Harry quickly ran out of the small room, into her office, used
the phone to call the police, and told them what has happened.  He
briefly explained to them on the phone, and hung it up.
     *****
     Meanwhile, back at Nick's home, all curled up in bed, and very
sound asleep.  Suddenly, his phone rang, and woke up with a jolt to
his nerves.  He rolled over, grabbed the phone, and turned the alarm
off.
     "Knight," Nick announced.
     "Sorry, Nick; I need you at the Gautreau Art Gallery.  A rare
painting was stolen.  Paul will meet you there."  Reese informed him.
     Nick cleared his throat, "Okay,"
     Nick sat up in bed, and rubbed the sleep from his eyes.  He
tossed the covers off, swinging his legs to the other side of the
bed, and walked into the bathroom.  A few moments passed, and then
the shower.  The noise of the toilet caused LaCroix to awaken. 
LaCroix exited his room, and strolled into Nick's room.  He walked
over to the chair, and waited for him patiently.  Nick stepped out of
the shower, and grabbed the towel.  He gently dried his entire body,
and rubbed his head to dry his golden hair.  He wrapped the towel
around his waist, and exited the bathroom.  Upon entering the room,
he saw LaCroix sitting in the chair waiting for him.
     "I've got to go out, a rare painting was stolen.  I'll meet you
in the park about seven o'clock."  Nick implied.
     "Nine o'clock is better," LaCroix suggested.
     "Okay, is your friend Scott here?"  Nick answered.
     "Yes, he's resting."  LaCroix answered.
     Nick strolled over to the dresser, began to pick out work
clothes, and returned to the bed then tossed them there.
     "Well, there's plenty of food in the place.  Help yourselves." 
Nick said.
     LaCroix scoffed slightly, "All right,"
     Nick just held his towel looking to LaCroix with a shy and
modest look, "I need to get dressed,"
     LaCroix sensed the hint, and stood up to leave the room, "Sorry,"
     LaCroix quietly exited his room, and returned to his.  Nick in
the meantime got dressed for work.  He leaned over to his nightstand,
and picked up his watch.  He strolled out of his room, and strutted
down the stairs to the kitchen.  He walked over to the fridge, and
opened the door.  He grabbed an orange juice, and an apple from the
drawer.  He bit the apple walking over to the table by the couch, and
picked up the rest of his things then ran over to the front door.  He
opened the door, and it closed slowly behind him.  He rode down to
his car.  He approached the car door, and tossed the apple core into
the trashcan on the side.  He climbed in, opened the bottle, and
gulped it down.  He started the engine, backed out of the spot, and
headed into traffic.
     Nick quickly arrived out front of the Art Gallery.  He saw Paul
sitting on the steps waiting for him.  Nick parked the car out front,
and turned the engine off.  He climbed out, and walked over to Paul
with a slight grin.  They greet each other with a warm handshake.
     "You remember the guy from the park; Carlton Hussey?"  Paul
questioned.
     "Yeah," Nick replied.
     "He was the security guard here."  Paul expressed strongly.
     "I remember; let's go get more pieces to the puzzle" Nick said.
     Paul just grinned from ear-to-ear, and gave Nick that silly
look, "All right, you will like her, she's your type."
     "Paul," Nick said.
     "What?"  Paul replied.
     "Not now," Nick suggested.
     "When?"  Paul inquired.
     They slowly walked down the corridor to her office, "After I
meet her, okay."  Nick said.
     Paul grinned, "Coolness,"
     As they approached the office, they saw a woman standing there
waiting for them.  She turned to see them walking towards her.  Nick
caught her image, and her beauty, but mostly her smile amazed him. 
The same feeling came across from his smile to her.  Paul caught the
fireworks; felt proud.  Nick eagerly stepped up.
     "Detective Coletti and I'm Detective Knight," Nick announced.
     "I'm Molly Ebourn; I am the Assistant Director here.  Let me
show you where the painting was."  Molly said, slightly glancing at
Nick.
     "Thank you," Nick whispered.
     They slowly turned, and walked toward the small room next to
her office.
     "I understand Mr. Hussey was a guard here."  Nick inquired.
     "Yes, he was; I heard what happened, so sad."  Molly expressed.
     "Yes it is; did you touch anything?"  Nick asked.
     "Yes, that was how I knew it was missing.  When Harry opened
the case, that picture fell out."  Molly briefed them.
     "Let's stay here.  Paul, call for the lab people to dust. 
There's gloves in the car, bring some in, please."  Nick requested.
     Paul snickered at him, "Okay,"
     Nick just gave him that odd look, but Paul went to do what he
had asked.  Nick felt the best opportunity had just arrived for him.
     "What painting was it?"  Nick inquired.
     "I have the original picture in my office, follow me.  It was a
rare Dots painting from World War I."  Molly described briefly.
     As they entered her office, Molly sat down in the chair behind
her desk, and Nick leaned on the edge.  She pulled out drawers
searching for the book of pictures.  She pulled out the drawer
between Nick's knees, and there was the book.  She pulled it out, and
closed the drawer.  She placed the book carefully on top of her desk
so Nick could see it as well.  Molly flipped through the pages, and
finally came across the picture.  She tilted the book for him to see.
     "Here it is," Molly said, pointing with her delicate finger.
     Nick stood up and leaned over her shoulder by her side,
"Beautiful picture,"
     "Yes it is," Molly responded blushing, "It was a painting done
by a young man hiding from the war.  He was a peace maker, and a
German." 
     Nick turned to sit upon the edge of the desk, "What happened to
him?"
     "When the soldiers found him, they destroyed the place, and
tortured him then placed him in front of a firing squad.  He was only
sixteen years old.  Years later, a woman found the painting hiding in
a closet wall.  Over the decades, it traveled around.  The Gallery
got it about twenty years ago.  Because of its age, it was placed in
a sealed case to protect."  Molly told him.
     "What will happen to it out of the case?"  Nick questioned.
     "It will slowly age and lose some of its face value.  We have
got to get it back."  Molly expressed strongly.
     "We will," Nick said.
     Paul saw the tender moment, so he stepped in, and cleared his
throat quietly, "Sorry to interrupt, but the lab people are here, and
its glove time."
     "Great, Miss. Ebourn, wait here," Nick requested.
     Molly smiled, "It's Molly, okay,"
     "It's Nick. Thanks, let's go," Nick said, smiling in return.
     As Nick came around her desk, he shoved Paul out of the office,
and into the small room.  They put the gloves on, and each picked a
side.
     "Ryan, you guys dusted here yet?"  Paul asked.
     "Yeah, we're done."  Ryan answered.
     "Anything?" Nick asked.
     "One print and one spot of blood."  Ryan replied.
     "Put a file together, and on my desk before the end of the
day."  Nick said.
     "Morning is better."  Ryan suggested.
     "First thing; I want with my coffee."  Nick requested.
     "Okay," Ryan answered.
     Ryan left, and Nick and Paul began their examination of the
room, and the display case.
     "Find anything?" Paul inquired.
     "No, you?" Nick inquired.
     "Not yet," Paul said.
     As they rose from their knees, another voice was heard from the
entrance.
     "Sir," Harry said softly.
     Nick turned to see whom it was and walked over to him, "Yes,"
     "I'm Harry Collins, one of the guards.  Carlton Hussey, was a
friend of mine."  Harry informed him.
     "Yeah; I'm Detective Knight."  Nick introduced himself.
     Harry leaned towards Nick, and whispered near his ear, "Can I
talk to you, alone.  For a minute?"
     Nick observed all sides, and pointed to his right, "Sure, come
on,"
     Nick walked behind, and showed him into Molly's office, "Excuse
me, Molly, can we use your office for a moment?"
     "Sure; I'll be outside waiting."  Molly replied.
     "Thanks, please close the door."  Nick said, grinning.
     "Okay," Molly whispered.
     Nick showed him the chair, and refused calmly.  Nick sat upon
the edge of the desk, and folded his hands into his lap, "Okay,
Harry, what's up?"
     "Well, I was working with Carlton the night before he died.  He
was very edgy; nervous."  Harry told him.
     "Why?"  Nick questioned.
     "He wouldn't say except that he said he was at the wrong place
at the wrong time."  Harry quoted.
     Nick hesitated for the moment, "Could you take me there?"
     Harry stepped around him, and waved for him to follow.  Nick
followed Harry to a small room next to the display room.  Harry
pulled the lever above his head, and the door slid to the left and
inside was a security room.  Nick was amazed, but Paul heard the door
move; he quickly walked around the corner, and saw what Nick
witnessed.
     "What are these controls for?"  Nick asked.
     "This is the security room for that painting."  Harry replied.
     "Does it still work?"  Paul asked.
     "Sure," Harry said.
     Harry stood over the control panel switching it on, and on the
monitor; you could see where the painting hung.
     "Stop there.  Paul, go back in the room, and stand there." 
Nick suggested.
     "Okay," Paul answered.
     Paul stood where Nick asked him to, and Nick thought for a
moment, "Harry, do you have a video tape of the past three days on
that room?"  Nick inquired.
     "That should be in the cabinet."  Harry replied.
     "Let's look," Nick requested.
     They carefully searched all the shelves, and Harry noticed an
empty space on the third shelf, "It's gone,"
     "Damn," Nick whispered, frustrated.
     "Who would steal a tape?"  Harry inquired.
     "The one who stole the painting?"  Nick answered.
     "I'm sorry," Harry said quietly.
     "Don't worry, thanks for your help."  Nick said.
     Nick quickly left the room and met up with Paul in the display
room.  He waved Paul on to leave.  They slowly left the Gallery, but
Nick saw Molly waiting on the stairs for him.  Nick stopped, but Paul
walked down to Nick's car to wait for him.  Paul observed from a
distance.
     "Hi," Nick said, slight smile.
     "Hi; I put this file together to help find the painting." 
Molly said softly.
     "Thanks," Nick replied with his boyish manner.
     "You will keep me posted/" Molly inquired.
     "Definitely," Nick said, grinning wider.
     Molly lowered her head, then slowly looked into his blue eyes,
and smiled, "My number is in the file." 
     Nick's smile became wider, "Great,"
     Nick softly rubbed his lips gazing into her brown eyes, and
displayed that boyish grin, "Would you have lunch with me?"
     Molly smiled with a slight sparkle in her eyes, "Love to,"
     "Tomorrow at one?" Nick requested.
     "It's a date, where?"  Molly agreed.
     "The small café downtown, Joe's Café?"  Nick suggested.
     "Okay," Molly said softly.
     "Great, thanks again."  Nick said, with a slight laugh.
     Nick walked over to the driver side, and played with his keys. 
Paul turned around, leaned upon the hood, and stared at him.
     "Now what?"  Paul inquired.
     Nick leaned upon the hood as well, "I'll meet you at the
station.  Pick up some fast lunch.  I will take this stuff to the
lab, and see if she got anything back yet."
     "Okay, well?"  Paul said, glaring at his face.
     Nick appeared to be a little puzzled by Paul's words, "What?"
     "Buddy," Paul said, slightly slapped his upper arm.
     "Tomorrow at one," Nick grinned.
     "Getting better," Paul said, with a slight clap of his hands.
     They both laughed, and Nick climbed into his car while Paul
walked away to his car.  Nick started the engine, and pulled away. 
He headed for Forensics, to see Doctor Michaels at her lab.
     Nick saw a free spot out front, and pulled right into it.  He
turned the engine off, and climbed out of the car.  He ran up the
stairs, and into the lab.  He saw her working at her desk rubbing her
head very hard.
     "Doc," Nick uttered.
     "Hey Nick, call me Kathy."  Kathy insisted.
     "Okay, Kathy, anything?"  Nick inquired.
     "Here; have a seat."  Kathy suggested, "Okay, a lot of the
blood was the victim's, but also the animal, a dog."
     "A dog," Nick repeated.
     Kathy stood up, and waved for him to follow, "Come over here,
and look at this sample."
     "What is that?"  Nick asked puzzled.
     "That's the dog's blood sample.  I have never seen blood like
that before.  It also has a rare toxin in it.  If someone was bit,
they will not live long.  I have some of the top labs working on it."
Kathy explained.
     "Let me know if they find anything."  Nick said.
     "Okay," Kathy answered.
     Nick hesitated for the moment, "You know my cousin is a rare
animal specialist.  Maybe he can help."
     Kathy sighed, "We can use all the help we can get."
     "Okay, the guys dusted the room, and here's what they found." 
Nick said.
     "No problem," Kathy replied, taking what he had.
     "Thanks," Nick said, slight smile.
     Nick turned, and walked quickly out of the lab.  He ran down
the stairs and to his car.  He looked at his watch, and saw it was
almost nine o'clock.  He quickly climbed into the car, and started
the engine.  Nick pulled away from the curb, and drove quickly to the
park.  He saw LaCroix waiting for him at the path.  He parked the
car, and climbed out.  Nick put the keys into his pocket.  Scott was
standing off to the side.
     "Hey, guys, find anything?"  Nick inquired.
     "It is a Carouche or close to that breed."  Scott expressed.
     "You mean; someone is trying to make us believe it's a vampire
dog."  Nick insinuated.
     "Possibly," LaCroix answered.
     Nick just shook his head from side to side, "Great, Scott, your
opinion?"
     Scott looked at Nick and then at LaCroix.  He then went back to
Nick, "I agree with LaCroix."
     "Damn," Nick hissed, angrily.
     They stood there, and quietly discussed this matter.  Suddenly,
a slight growl echoed in the air, and had them silent instantly. 
They carefully looked around them, and as far as they could see. 
LaCroix and Scott carefully used their vampire eyes to scan the area.
Nick quietly pulled his gun out, and held it tightly to protect them.
They made a triangle with their backs to each other.
     "What was that?"  Nick fearfully asked.
     "I believe that was the…"  LaCroix started to say.
     "Dog," Scott spoke.
     "Where?" Nick asked.
     "Don't know," Scott answered.
     "Stay close and let's make our way to the car."  Nick suggested
quietly.
     They slowly walked towards Nick's car.  Scott climbed into the
back, and Nick helped LaCroix with the door.  Suddenly, from the
other side of the car, the dog leaped over the car, and knocked Nick
and LaCroix down.  The dog landed on LaCroix, and they struggled left
and right.  The dog bit LaCroix in the chest, and he yelled in pain. 
Nick grabbed his gun, and fired a shot in the air.  The dog vanished
before Nick could fire another.  He saw LaCroix on the ground; not
moving.  He quickly crawled over to him, and saw that he was hurt. 
Nick picked him up and helped him into the back seat with Scott. 
Nick climbed in; Scott stood outside, and ripped his shirt off.  He
handed it to Nick, and they both applied pressure to the wound.  Nick
reached into his pocket, and handed the keys to Scott.
     "He needs a hospital."  Nick said, filled with tears.
     "Calm down, I'm his only hope now."  Scott said calmly.
     Scott turned around, and turned the engine on.  He peeled away
from the curb, and headed for Nick's home.  Scott pulled in, and
parked the car.  He turned the engine off, and climbed out of the
car.  He went to the other door, and helped Nick get him in.  They
each took an arm, and helped him into the elevator.  They rode up
Nick quickly opening the front door, and they carefully walked in. 
Scott sent Nick into the kitchen for a bowl of water, and some
towels.  Scott quickly swooped upstairs, and took LaCroix to his
room.  He laid him down, and stripped him down to his pants and
socks.  He ripped he shirt off so he could see the wound, and
examined it very closely.  LaCroix still out cold; but sweating. 
Nick quickly walked in with the water, and the towels.  He sat on the
edge of the bed, and placed the bowl onto the table.  He took a towel
getting it very wet, and rung it out.  He gently rubbed his forehead,
and handed a wet towel to Scott to care for the wound.
     "The medicine I need is downstairs; I'll be right back, and
keep him warm."  Scott ordered.
     Scott left Nick tending to LaCroix's wounds.  He quietly left
the room, and swooped downstairs.  He walked over to the table
picking up his bag and unzipped it.  He pulled out a plastic bag with
a needle attached to it.  He looked all around to be sure it was
safe.  He rolled up his sleeve, sticking the needle into his arm, and
drained his blood into it.  He squeezed his hand open and closed to
fill the bag faster.  He finally filled it, and pulled the needle
out.  He bent his arm so the hole would heal.  He swooped up the
stairs, and slowly walked down the hall to LaCroix's room.  He walked
in trying to hide the bag, but Nick saw the bag, and was confused.
     "What is that?"  Nick inquired.
     "Blood with the medicine in it."  Scott answered.
     "Blood?" Nick queried, slightly shocked.
     "Yes, I will explain later, we need to do this quickly."  Scott
replied.
     "If you need more blood; let me know."  Nick insisted.
     "Okay, he needs to rest now.  I will stay with him.  You go do
your thing."  Scott requested.
     "I'll call you later."  Nick uttered as he stood up.
     "He'll be fine," Scott said to calm his fear.
     Nick gave him a very long stare, and looked to Scott, "He's my
best friend, whatever it takes."
     "I will; I promise."  Scott said.
     "Thanks, my cell phone is on.  I'll be at the station."  Nick
told him.
     Scott stayed to care for LaCroix.  Nick went into his room to
relax for a few moments.  As he entered, he saw the two men standing
in the middle of the room.  Nick froze, but Scott sensed them; he
quickly ran to Nick, and stepped in front of him.
     "What has happened here?"  Munzo inquired.
     "He was bitten by the Carouche."  Nick told him.
     "Pity," Tian said.
     "You have to help him; you have the cure."  Nick pleaded.
     Munzo gave a slight laugh, "Why?"
     "He's one of your best followers."  Nick said.
     "True," Munzo agreed.
     Scott felt LaCroix's presence, "LaCroix," he said running out
of the room, into his with Nick, and the Enforcers closely behind him.
     "How do you feel?"  Scott asked softly.
     "I'm on fire; what happened?"  LaCroix asked.
     Scott wet his lips, "You were bitten by the Carouche."
     "Nicholas," LaCroix whispered.
     "He's fine, but scared for you."  Scott replied.
     "He's safe?" LaCroix inquired.
     "Yes," Scott answered.
     "Good, was this part of your plan?"  LaCroix asked.
     "No," Tian answered.
     LaCroix let out a slight scoff, "You're losing your edge."
     Scott slowly leaned over, and carefully placed LaCroix's
shoulders back down upon the bed, "LaCroix, don't; they have the
cure."
     LaCroix looked up at Scott's face, "I know; I'm sure they will
want something in return."
     "True," Munzo said, jumping in.
     Tian slowly stepped forward, and looked directly down upon
LaCroix, "Nicholas,"
     Scott looked at Nick before this continued, "I need more water,
Nick please."
     "Sure," Nick uttered.
     Scott got up, and closed the door quietly, "No, he cannot be
touched.  God took him back.  He's protected."
     Tian looked to Munzo, "We can fix that."
     LaCroix sat halfway up in bed, and glared at them with his
green vampire eyes, "Leave now, or I'll bite you myself."
     LaCroix slowly laid back on the bed, turned his head away, and
faded off to a deep sleep.
     "He truly cares for him."  Munzo said.
     Scott looked up to them, and he stood then walked around to
face them directly, "They're family; good friends to each other." 
     "Spare me," Tian replied.
     "Cure or leave," Scott offered a choice.
     They chose to leave, and Scott went back to LaCroix.  Nick
looked around the place, and Paul had left before he did.  He grabbed
his things, and headed out to the station.  He saw a space along the
right side of the building, and parked the car.  He ran into the
building, and to his desk.  He saw Paul waiting for him at the desk. 
Paul took notice of his face, the sadness in his eyes.  Nick picked
up his phone, and called home.
     "Hello," Scott replied.
     "How is he?"  Nick asked.
     "Nick, he woke up for a few seconds.  I told him you were safe.
He felt better then went to sleep again."  Scott reported to him.
     "Keep me posted." Nick said.
     "Okay," Scott answered.
     They hung up, and Nick had this lost look on his face.  Paul
touched him on the forearm.
     "Hey, what's going on?"  Paul questioned.
     "My cousin is very ill."  Nick said, slightly upset.
     "LaCroix?" Paul inquired.
     "Yeah," Nick whispered.
     "Oh, I'm sorry.  If there was anything I can do, let me know. 
Anything, okay."  Paul offered to help.
     Nick stood up straight, looked to Paul and tapped his arm,
"Thanks, I will.  Okay, business."
     "Are you sure?"  Paul asked.
     "Yeah," Nick answered.
     "Reese and Doc are waiting for us in his office for a wrap
session.  Let's go."  Paul informed him.
     "Okay," Nick whispered.
     They picked up their pens and files, and slowly walked towards
the office.  Paul opened the door letting Nick pass by, and closed
the door behind him.  They each took a chair, and sat down.  Paul
pulled out his pen, and prepared to take notes in case Nick wandered
off in thought.  Reese cleared his throat to draw attention, and made
the room very quiet.
     "Okay Doc, you start."  Reese requested.
     Michaels opened her file, and quietly cleared her throat to
speak direct, "Okay, Carlton Hussey, and thirty-three years old.  A
rare-breed of dog attacked him.  The dog's blood is toxic, and can
kill.  Carlton was a healthy man.  The blood sample, the tooth,
tracks found at the scene, and the hairs at the Gallery; are animal. 
The fingerprint we're still looking for a match."
     "Okay, Nick," Reese requested.
     Nick hesitated for a moment, "Ah, sorry, Carlton was a security
guard at the Gallery.  A rare painting stolen the night he was
killed.  I believe he was killed because he found out.  Molly, the
Assistant Director put a file together on the painting.  Harry
Collins the other guard showed us the security room.  We checked the
cabinet, and the tape of that night is missing."
     "Paul?" Reese questioned.
     Paul just rubbed his chin, placed his head easily on the table,
and sighed, "Outside of a headache that sums it up, for now."
     "Meaning?" Reese uttered.
     Paul tapped his pen on the desk, "A lot of the pieces are still
missing.  A guard killed the night a rare painting disappeared, and
the tape of it is gone.  Way too neat, well-planned out."
     Reese hesitated for a few, "Inside job?,"
     Nick slowly leaned back into his chair, and cleared his throat,
"Maybe,"
     Suddenly, a knock on the door, it slowly opened, and Jack's
head peeked in.
     "Captain, another one.  West Side of the park, it's a woman. 
Here's the address."  Jack said.
     "Thanks.  Grab Tony, let's roll guys."  Reese ordered.
     Reese and Doc Michaels stood, and quickly left the room.  They
took the file with them, and dropped them on Nick's desk as they left
the building.  Jack and Tony rode together, and Reese was with Doc. 
Paul and Nick hesitated for a few; they grabbed the files, and
quickly walked out of the building then headed for Nick's car.  They
quickly climbed in, and he started the engine.  They drove in a
straight line, and headed for the park.  They parked the car along
the curb.  They climbed out and started up the path except for Nick. 
Paul noticed, and stepped up to him with great concern.
     "What's up?"  Paul asked.
     "I need to make a quick call.  Start up, if I start to slip." 
Nick said.
     Paul slightly slapped him on his forearm, and gave him a
friendly grin, "You're covered.  Let me know how he is.  Don't worry,
he's very strong.  He'll be just fine."
     "I hope so," Nick said worried.
     Paul looked around them to be safe, and stepped a little closer
to him to whisper in his ear.
     "We'll finish here, and we will go see him, okay?"  Paul
suggested.
     Nick just grinned and looked to Paul, "Thanks,"
     Paul clapped his hands together, "Cool, take all the time you
need."
     Nick slowly took his cell phone out of his pocket, and began to
dance upon the numbers for home.
     "Hello?" Scott replied.
     "How is he?"  Nick inquired.
     "Better, he's more alert, still has a slight fever, but doing
better."  Scott said slightly calm.
     Nick let out a huge sigh of relief, "Great; I'll be home soon."
     "Nick, I need some blood to transfer to him.  I gave all I
could, but…"  Scott hinted.
     Nick picked up what he was asking, "No problem; I'll be home
soon."
     "Okay, I'll call if anything changes."  Scott said relaxed.
     "Thanks," Nick whispered.
     Nick placed the phone back into his pocket taking in a deep
breath, and released it.  He walked up the path, and bumped into Paul
coming back to the car.  Paul showed him to the car, they slowly
climbed in, and Nick looked to him.
     "How's LaCroix?" Paul inquired.
     "Better, you?" Nick inquired.
     Paul was rolling around in his seat, and not looking healthy,
"Good, I'm not sure, wait a few."
     Nick leaned over, and noticed that he looked ill, "For what?"
     Paul quickly grabbed his stomach squeezing it tight from pain,
and slowly looked at Nick and opened his door, "Excuse me,"
     Paul stumbled out of the car running for the nearest bush, and
vomited until he felt at ease.  Nick observed Paul from the car in
case he may need help.  Paul grabbed his hanky from his pocket
cleaning his face, and threw it in the trash can.  He slowly returned
to the car opening the door, and climbed in.  He reached behind him
for his bottle of water, and drank some then tossed it back.  He
opened the door and spat the water on the ground.  Closed it taking
in a deep breath then exhaled.  Nick gave him a little time to relax
and chill.
     "You okay?" Nick inquired.
     Paul saw the concern in his eyes, "I am now,"
     "What's the story?"  Nick questioned.
     Paul cleared his throat and looked to Nick with a very pale
face, "Later, let us go to your place.  We will talk, I need a beer,
and we need to see LaCroix, okay.  I need to relax before I tell you
about the scene."
     Nick felt his need, and decided to comfort him, "Okay, let's go."
     Nick sat up straight, and started the engine.  He pulled away
from the curb, and drove home.  He pulled into his spot, and turned
the engine off.  They climbed out of the car, and headed for the
elevator.  They rode up to his loft, and Nick opened the door.  The
door closed automatically behind them.  Paul walked directly to the
fridge, and grabbed two beers.  He went over to the drawer, and
pulled out the bottle opener.  He popped the bottles walking into the
living room, and waited for him.  Nick walked upstairs to see LaCroix
and Scott.  Scott was resting in the chair, and LaCroix was sitting
slightly up in bed.  Nick entered the room, and sat along his side.
     Nick smiled, "You look better,"
     "Thank you," LaCroix whispered.
     "How do you feel?"  Nick asked.
     LaCroix hesitated for the moment, "Very tired, and drained,"
     Scott heard them talking, and woke up and quickly walked over
to Nick, "I'm glad you're back; I need to talk to you privately."
     "Okay, I'll be back in a minute."  Nick replied.
     Nick slowly stood up, and followed Scott out into the hallway. 
He closed the door part way, "What is it?"
     "He needs more blood," Scott insisted.
     "Okay, let's go."  Nick replied.
     "Those two men that were here, they have the cure for him." 
Scott told him.
     Nick's eyes became teary, "Is he dying?"
     "Yes, in a way, the dog's blood was toxic.  The Carouche's
blood was toxic.  It caused the animal to go mad, and almost to the
point where it thinks to feed on blood."  Scott briefed.
     "That's sick," Nick mumbled.
     "True, that is why it was illegal to breed this kind.  Now, let
me take some blood to help him, and then I'll help you get this dog."
Scott expressed eagerly.
     "Okay," Nick said.
     They quickly entered Nick's bedroom, and sat on the bed.  Scott
set him up to take his blood.  He carefully pushed the needle into
his arm, and slowly filled the bag.  Nick flexed his hand to pump the
blood faster.  After the bag was full, Scott carefully removed the
needle, and placed a cotton ball over the needle then bent his arm up.
     "Okay, drink some juice and I'll be down in a few minutes." 
Scott explained.
     "Okay, I'll come up when you're done."  Nick said.
     Scott rolled the bag, and put the other things away, "Okay,"
     Nick slowly stood up walking out of his room, and into the
hallway.  He walked over to the stairs, and walked down to meet Paul.
He walked over to the fridge, and grabbed a juice.  He gulped that
down in seconds.  He walked over to the couch sitting down beside
Paul, and took the beer that Paul was holding for him.  He took a big
gulp, and swallowed hard.
     "Okay man, what you got?"  Nick inquired.
     Paul turned to face him, "Remember the guy,"
     "Yeah," Nick answered.
     "Much worse, mostly blood everywhere.  Some flesh, no face,
nothing intact, very sick."  Paul expressed every morbid detail.
     Nick pictured it in his mind, and closed eyes, "Gross,"
     "Agreed," Paul answered.
     "Scott's finishing up with LaCroix.  He's an expert with this
type of dog, he will help us.  You want to hang here tonight?"
     "Sure," Paul answered, "Don't forget your date."
     "I won't, but it will depend on LaCroix and how he is."  Nick
said.
     Paul thought for a second, "True,"
     Scott slowly came down the stairs, and strolled over to Nick,
"He's resting, what can I do to help?"
     Paul looked to Scott, "What kind of animal are we dealing with?"
     "Okay, it will sound strange so keep an open mind."  Scott
requested.
     Paul sat up right, and gave Scott his full-undivided attention,
"Cool, go on,"
     Scott sat down in the chair rubbing his face, and tried to
explain this without jeopardizing anyone.
     "This particular breed of dog was a Carouche.  The legendary
story goes; a Carouche was the lower form of a vampire.  I am not
saying it is; it's just a story.  It's a rare breed, which became
illegal because over a period of time the animals became toxic." 
Scott briefed them.
     "What if you got bit?"  Paul asked.
     "No cure, as far as I know."  Scott bluntly answered.
     Paul's eyes fill with fear, "That would be bad."
     "Very good; I'm going back up.  The best time to catch it; is
at night.  We'll plan to go tomorrow night; it's almost dawn, and it
hides.  It would help to know the owner."  Scott hinted.
     "I want to see him before I sleep."  Nick insisted.
     Paul stretched out on the couch, and turned the television on. 
He relaxed, and finished his beer.  Nick and Scott went upstairs, and
into LaCroix's room.  Scott hung in the doorway, and Nick sat on the
bed.  The movement caused LaCroix to awaken, and look up to Nick's
eyes.
     "Nicholas?" LaCroix uttered.
     "How are you doing?"  Nick asked.
     "Fine, but weak," LaCroix answered.
     "Well, I gave you some good blood.  Its great medicine for you,
it will fix you up in no time."  Nick said with a slight grin.
     "You what?"  LaCroix asked in shock.
     "You're sick, and we're friends; family, and I wanted to help,
so I did.  You'll be better in no time."  Nick expressed.
     "Nicholas?" LaCroix started.
     "It's done; I would do it again, if it were needed.  Get some
rest.  Scott will stay with you."  Nick told him.
     "Night," LaCroix whispered.
     "Night, see you in the morning."  Nick said calmly.
     Nick slapped LaCroix lightly on his thigh, and stood up, and
walked out of the room.  He left him to rest, and met up with Scott
who stood in the hallway waiting.  Nick took him by the forearm, and
led him into his room.  As they entered, they saw the two men
standing there from earlier.  Scott tried to stand in front of Nick;
but his anger built, and stood directly in their path.
     "You two were here a few days ago.  If you really have the cure
to help him, do it."  Nick demanded.
     "Not yet," Munzo replied.
     "Why?"  Nick asked firmly.
     "Too early," Tian answered.
     "What?"  Nick asked confused.
     "Why would you care?" he inquired.
     Nick took a few steps closer, almost eye to eye, "He's my
friend, and I will always care."
     "Interesting," Tian replied.
     Scott became nervous of what he heard.  He cleared his throat
to draw his attention.
     "Nick, come here."  Scott insisted.
     Nick walked over, and looked to him, "What?"
     Before Scott could answer, the two men vanished, and Nick was
in slight shock.
     "Don't get upset, we need to have straight heads."  Scott said.
     Nick looked to Scott, "Fine,"
     Nick slightly turned, and saw the men had left the room, "Where
did they go?"
     "I don't know, and don't care.  Right now, we need to get some
rest, and we'll start at eight o'clock tomorrow night."  Scott
recommended.
     "Okay, if anything changes, wake me up."  Nick said firmly.
     "Okay," Scott uttered.
     Scott slowly turned around, left the room, and Nick alone. 
Scott hung just outside of Nick's room to be sure he was safe.  Nick
kicked off his shoes, and took his belt off.  He lay back on the bed
covering his eyes with his forearm, and slowly wet his dry lips.
     "Please Lord, don't let him die; I need him."  Nick prayed
softly.
     A slight sniff, and slowly drifted off to sleep.  Scott wiped
his face with his hand, and walked into LaCroix's room where he was
awake.  Scott picked up a wet towel, and touched his forehead.
     "Scott," LaCroix uttered.
     "Hey, how are you feeling?"  Scott asked.
     "Better, little weak," LaCroix answered.
     Scott let out a slight sigh, "You need more blood."
     "I need the cure."  LaCroix said.
     "Nick tried; I guess they're waiting for something."  Scott
told him.
     "For what?"  LaCroix inquired.
     "I don't know, get some rest.  I'll stay here and rest in the
chair if you need anything."  Scott explained.
     "Okay," LaCroix mumbled.
     Scott stood up as LaCroix drifted off to sleep, sat down in the
chair and slowly went off himself.
     *****
     As they rested comfortably in their own rooms, we flew to the
police station where Doctor Michaels entered the building, and walked
over to Reese's office.  She tapped the door to draw his attention. 
He looked up seeing her, and waved his hand to offer a seat.
     "Yeah," Reese said, slightly tired.
     "Hi, time for a round up."  Michaels suggested.
     Reese grabbed a pen, and the file off to the side of his desk,
"Okay, go,"
     Doctor Michaels cleared her throat, and quickly crossed her
legs to be more comfortable.  Reese sat up, and hung onto every word
she said.
     "Okay, the first victim was Carlton Hussey.  We have his file,
and he worked for the Art Gallery.  The second victim, and it took a
while, but her name was Nora.  She was twenty-four years old, five
foot six, and about one hundred and twenty-five pounds.  She had
blonde hair, and brown eyes.  She was a transfer student from Boston.
She was studying the rare painting before it disappeared.  The
boyfriend is on his way here.  He'll be here tomorrow."  Michaels
briefed him.
     Reese finished writing everything down, and leaned back into
his chair in deep thought, "A guard, a student, all rolled into the
Art Gallery.  Maybe the owner killed them because they knew."
     "Looks like it," Michaels said with frustration in her voice.
     "I'll put this file together, and leave it on Nick's desk.  He
said his cousin dealt with this kind animal.  This may help him." 
Michaels told him.
     Reese leaned forward on his desk, and looked off to the side
then to her, "How would we trace for the owner?"
     "Not sure, where the animal is doing the killing, there's zero
clue of the owner."  Michaels replied.
     "We know the owner is behind it.  It all ends up at the
Gallery."  Reese said.
     They both rubbed chins in deep thought.  She looked up,
crinkled her eyebrow, "Ex-employee."  Michaels suggested.
     "Maybe; Nick and Paul will be here tonight.  I'll brief them
then."  Reese replied.
     "I'll gather up what's here and send it over later."  Michaels
told him.
     "Okay, thanks, Doc."  Reese said.
     "Anytime," Michaels sighed loudly.
     Doctor Michaels slowly turned walking out of her office, and
out of the building then headed back to her office.  Reese finished
filling in the file for Nick and Paul.
     *****
     Back at Nick's home, he walked out of the bathroom all groomed.
He moved over to the mirror, checked his hair, and strolled out into
the hallway then down the stairs.  Paul looked behind him, and saw
Nick coming down.  He teased him by whistling at him.  Nick gave him
a grin in return.
     "Mercy," Paul said.
     Nick rubbed his chest to smooth out any wrinkles, "That good?"
     "Date day?" Paul replied.
     "Yeah, I am going to see LaCroix first.  I wanted his opinion. 
You need a ride?"  Nick inquired.
     "No; I'll see you at the station later."  Paul said.
     "Cool," Nick whispered.
     "Hey," Paul said.
     "Sorry," Nick mumbled.
     Paul followed behind to use the bathroom in his room.  Nick
quietly walked over to LaCroix's room.  He carefully turned the knob,
and peeked in.  He saw he was still sleeping.  He closed the door
walking down the hallway, and downstairs.  He strolled over to the
table behind the couch picking up his things, and quickly approached
the door.  He opened it, and automatically closed behind him.  He
rode the elevator down to his car, and walked to the driver side.  He
carefully climbed in, and started the engine.  He backed out, and
drove to Joe's Place to meet up with Molly.  He stood on the
sidewalk, and looked for her.  He spotted her out of the corner of
his eye.  She strolled down the sidewalk like a vision that words
could never express.  She had on a pale green satin shirt with a
white mini skirt and white shoes with an anklet on her left ankle. 
Her hair bounced as she stepped closer and closer towards him.  He
strutted up to meet her.
     "Hi," Nick said, slight smile.
     "Hi," Molly said, returning the smile.
     "How are you?"  Nick asked.
     "Fine," Molly answered.
     "Great, let's grab a table."  Nick suggested.
     "Okay," Molly agreed.
     Nick gently placed his hand on her mid-back, and escorted her
to the table in the shade.  As he pulled out a chair for her, she
slowly sat down then a waiter approached and stood waiting for their
order.
     "Ice-tea," Nick suggested.
     Molly nodded her head to suggest that was a good idea.
     "Two," Nick said.  "Well you know I'm a cop, what do you do
exactly?"
     Molly, a little surprised, but relaxed to the idea, "I grew up
in California, and moved here some years ago.  I tended schools in
France then I got the job at the Gallery.  I love art, the theatre,
and old movies.  I enjoy camping, the mountains, and long walks. 
Although, I work at the Gallery, and live in the city, I'm a country
girl at heart."
     Nick was amazed that they had almost the same lifestyles, and
interests, "We share a lot in common."
     Molly looked into his soft blue eyes, "I am glad,"
     "Do you mind dating a cop?"  Nick asked, hesitant.
     "No," Molly answered quickly.
     Nick smiled widely, "Good,"
     They smiled at each other, and the waiter approached with the
ice-tea.  He carefully placed the glasses down, and they ordered
their lunch.  They sipped the ice-tea, and enjoyed small talk to
learn more about each other.
     ******
     Back at Nick's home, Scott was sitting downstairs on the couch
watching the news.  LaCroix slowly walked down the stairs, and walked
over to Scott.  He heard the noise of his feet looking behind, and
saw him there holding onto the chair.  Scott stood up helping him to
sit in the chair, and ran into the kitchen to the fridge then grabbed
a bottle of blood for him.  He ran back, and helped with the bottle.
     "You shouldn't be up."  Scott said loudly.
     LaCroix slowly swallowed the blood, and closed his eyes to let
it fill his senses, "I'm fine, just a little weak,"
     "That should help some."  Scott recommended.
     LaCroix finished the bottle, and placed it on the table.
      "Better?" Scott queried.
     LaCroix paused, and rolled his eyes, "Some,"
     Scott leaned towards him; "I'm meeting Paul and Nick tonight in
the park to look for the dog."
     LaCroix sat up right, "I'll go as well."
     Scott quickly shook his head, and rubbed his chin, "I don't
recommend it."
     "I want to help."  LaCroix said firmly.
     Scott looked at LaCroix directly in his eyes, "You've already
been bit."
     "That's where I can help."  LaCroix implied.
     Scott squinted his eyebrow, "Or die,"  
     LaCroix scoffed, "I don't intend to die,"
     Scott felt that he would not win; so he gave in willingly with
great concern, "As you wish,"
     LaCroix looked around the room and he did not feel Nick's
presence near, "Where's Nicholas?"
     Scott leaned back into the couch, "Out with Molly."
     "Molly?" LaCroix inquired, slightly puzzled.
     Scott expressed a slight grin, "His new love in his life."
     "Good, what time do we meet them?"  LaCroix asked.
     "Nine o'clock," Scott answered.
     They relaxed in the living room watching the news and enjoyed
the small talk among themselves.  Meanwhile back with Molly and Nick.
They held each other's fingertips tenderly, and gazed into each
other's eyes.  They had just finished their cozy lunch, and they were
about to speak; as Nick's cell phone rang and gave them a slight
jolt.  He hesitated for a second, and she smiled warmly.
     "Excuse me, sorry," Nick said softly.
     "No problem," Molly said, slight grin.
     Nick pulled his cell phone, pushed the button, and raised it up
to his ear, "Knight,"
     "I'm sorry Nick, I need to see you."  Paul requested.
     "It's okay, I'm on my way."  Nick said.
     Nick cleared his throat with slight embarrassment, "I need to
go,"
     Molly smiled with complete understanding, "Okay, can I have a
lift to work?"
     Nick felt slightly guilty, and said to her, "Okay, let's go."
     Nick placed money onto the table, and helped Molly stand.  He
escorted her to his car carefully opening the door, and she stepped
in.  He closed the door strolling over to his door, and stepped in
then closed his door.  He pulled out the keys, and started the
engine.  He looked both ways pulling away from the curb and headed
for the Gallery.  It was a very quiet ride to the Gallery.  He pulled
up front, put the car in park, and sat slightly towards her.
     "I had a lovely time.  Its okay, I understand a cop's life.  My
father was one."  Molly told him.
     "Great," Nick said relieved, "I also had a great time."
     Molly leaned slightly closer to Nick, "Will I hear from you?"
     Nick met her, "Definitely, how about dinner and dancing
tomorrow night?"
     "I love to dance," Molly said happily.
     "Eight o'clock?" Nick suggested.
     "Definitely," Molly warmly replied.
     "Great," Nick returned the same glance.
     They slowly leaned closer to each other gently pressing their
moist lips upon each other, and kissed with every ounce of passion
possible.  Molly licked her lips to show she enjoyed that.  She
slowly stepped out of the car, and gave him a slight glance.  Nick
returned the glance, and watched her climb every step until she was
safely inside.  He put the car in drive, and pulled away from the
curb.  He too, licked his lips from her tender kiss.
     Nick drove to the station seeing a spot out front, and pulled
his car right into it.  He turned the engine off, and stepped out of
the car.  He quickly ran up the stairs, and saw Paul and Reese
waiting for him by his desk.  He slowed down, and carefully
approached them.
     "Let's go," Reese said.
     Paul tapped Nick on his forearm and whispered, "How was it?"
     "Great, later."  Nick replied.
     Paul understood, and dropped the questioning.  They quickly
followed Reese to his office, and they sat quickly down.  Reese
stepped around his desk, and sat down.  He picked up the file, and
handed to each of them to follow along.  They pulled out their pens,
and prepared to take notes.
     "Okay boys; time to piece the puzzle together.  Doctor Michaels
said the same animal attacked both victims.  Hussey was a guard, and
Nora was an art student from Boston.  She was here studying the
painting.  That painting was stolen the night Hussey was killed." 
Reese briefed them.
     "They were killed so they couldn't talk, bad timing."  Paul
suggested.
     Nick cleared his throat, "Molly said the painting was a rare
Dots painting from WWI.  A sixteen-year-old peacemaker, and German,
did the painting.  They executed him for it, and they got it twenty
years ago.  If we don't find it soon, it will start to age, and lose
face value."
     "Has you're friend arrived to help with this?"  Reese inquired.
     "Yeah; I'm meeting him at nine o'clock at the park."  Nick told
him.
     Paul turned his head and looked to him, "Need me?"
     "He said alone; I'll fill you in later."  Nick expressed.
     "Cool," Paul said.
     Suddenly, the phone rang, and gave them a slight jolt.  Reese
reached over, and picked it up.
     "Reese," Reese announced.
     "I found something," Michaels told him.
     "Nick and Paul are here.  Let me put you on the speakerphone,
hold a sec."  Reese requested.
     Reese placed her on hold, and reached over and grabbed the
little speaker and pushed the button on the top, "Go ahead, Doc,"
     "I ran the evidence from the Gallery.  The hairs are animal and
the fingerprint belongs to a Stanley Bradt.  He's thirty-five-years-
old, brown hair, and green eyes.  He was five-foot-nine, and about
one hundred and ninety pounds.  I faxed the information to Lisa.  She
will bring it to you.  His address is also in there."  Michaels
explained.
     "Thanks, Doc," Reese said.
     "Okay, it's starting to fit."  Paul commented quietly.
     Suddenly, there was a slight knock on the door, "Yeah," Reese
said.
     Lisa opened the door, and peeked in, "The fax,"
     "Thanks," Reese replied politely.
     "Nick, something was delivered to you.  It's on your desk." 
Lisa said.
     "Thanks," Nick said.
     "What is it?"  Paul asked.
     "Hey," Nick replied quickly.
     Lisa leaned on the door and gave Paul a quick glance, "Sorry,"
     Reese cleared his throat to redirect their attention, "Okay,
here's the address, check him out, and do up a report on your meet
tonight."
     "Okay," Nick said.
     "Let's go boys," Reese requested.
     They stood up opening the door to leave the office, and left
Reese alone.  Everyone in the building has a slight grin upon his or
her faces.  Nick became nervous, and Paul just observed the scene. 
As they approached Nick's desk, Paul saw the rose, and a note
attached to it.  Paul stepped around him, and grabbed the rose.  He
carefully picked it up, and gave it a quick sniff.  He gently handed
it to Nick which he did the same.
     "I never got a rose," Paul said with a sigh.
     Nick grabbed the note, and looked at him, "It's not what you
think."
     Nick opened the envelope, and silently read it to himself.  It
said:
     'Thanks for a wonderful lunch.  Counting the moments till
dinner, and dance under the stars in your strong, warm arms.  Molly.'
     Paul peeked over the hands, and saw the note.  He looked to
Nick with a slight grin.
     "Does she have a sister?"  Paul inquired.
     "Don't know," Nick answered.
     "I'm jealous," Paul sighed.
     Nick placed a playful grin on his face, "Too bad,"
     "Dinner and dancing," Paul said.
     Nick placed the note into his shirt pocket, and looked at Paul,
"Stop there, let us check out this address.  One call; first."
     Nick stumbled around Paul, grabbed his phone, and dialed up his
home.  Scott reached over, and grabbed the phone quietly.
     "Hello?" Scott replied.
     "How is he?"  Nick inquired.
     "He's feeling better, are we still on for tonight?"  Scott asked.
     "Yeah, thanks."  Nick said.
     They quickly left, and stood on the sidewalk.  They looked
around, and Nick pulled out his keys.
     "Okay, you follow me and we'll do this."  Nick suggested.
     "Cool," Paul agreed.
     They each strolled to their cars, and climbed in.  Nick started
his engine, and waited for Paul to pull up behind him.  When he saw
Paul, he tooted the horn to signal him to follow.  Nick led the way,
and Paul drove slowly behind him.  They carefully drove to Stanley's
address.  They drove on the opposite side of the house, and parked in
a line.  Paul climbed out of his car, and stepped into Nick's.  They
quietly talked for a few quietly climbing out, and met up on the
sidewalk.  They reached behind their backs, and checked for their
guns.  As they approached the front door, Nick showed him to go
around the back; and him to the front.  They pulled out their guns,
and prepared themselves for anything.
     Paul strolled to the back; Nick quietly stepped up to the front
door, and looked around.  He reached down turning the knob, and the
door slowly opened.  He aimed his gun in front of him, and cautiously
stepped into the house.  He looked up, and down and all around him. 
Behind every corner; doorway.  Paul entered through the back, and did
the same.  They quietly met up in the main hallway of the house. 
Paul led the way, Nick on the left, and Paul on the right.  Paul
opened the door to the back room, and his eyes filled with horror.
     "NICK!"  Paul screamed in horror.
     Nick came around to his side, "What is it?"
     Paul stepped away, and leaned up against the wall, "Stanley, I
think,"
     Nick carefully stepped in, and saw the body, or what was left
of it, lying on the floor in a pool of blood, and no face.  Nick
pulled out his cell phone, and called Reese.
     "Cap, send some guys to that address."  Nick requested.
     "What you got?"  Reese inquired.
     "Dead owner, we think," Nick answered.
     "Where's the dog?"  Reese asked.
     Nick looked all around him, "Don't know,"
     Nick hung up the phone, saw his watch; and he was running a
little late, "Damn, got to go."
     "I'm okay; I'll finish here."  Paul replied.
     "We didn't find the painting."  Nick said.
     Paul placed his hand on his shoulder, "Tomorrow, before dinner.
Now go."
     "Thanks man, I owe you one."  Nick replied eagerly.
     "Sunday, at two o'clock with beers."  Paul suggested.
     "Done, thanks."  Nick agreed.
     Nick quickly ran outside to his car and climbed in.  He started
the engine, and peeled away from the curb.  He drove quickly to the
park on the West Side, and saw Scott standing their waiting for him
patiently.  Nick climbed out of his car, and walked over to Scott. 
He looked around, and looked to Scott.
     "Where's LaCroix?"  Nick inquired.
     "He's home, he's still too weak to be out yet."  Scott replied.
     "How did you get him to stay?"  Nick asked.
     "It was not easy."  Scott sighed.
     "Okay, let's do this; I need to see him."  Nick hinted strongly.
     They slowly walked up the path, and into the field of the park.
A dark mid-night sky lit up by the moon, and the stars.  The
moonlight shined upon the leaves of the trees, and bounced off the
meadows of flowers.  Nick noticed Scott carrying a bag, and holding
it very tight.
     "What's in the bag?"  Nick questioned.
     "Things to kill it."  Scott said bluntly.
     "Like what?"  Nick asked.
     Scott hesitated for a moment and thought, "Its best if you
don't know, trust me."
     "Okay," Nick whispered.
     They walked slowly with small talk and enjoyed the feel of the
night air.  They came across a park bench, strolled that way to sit,
and rest for a bit.  He placed the bag directly between his knees. 
Nick looked around rubbing his head, and his tired eyes.
     "Will this dog still attack if its owner is dead?"  Nick asked.
     Scott slightly froze, and looked to Nick, "Worse, he probably
killed his owner."
     "It looks like it did."  Nick told him.
     Scott feared the worst, "Sounds like the dog is in the final
stage, total toxic.  It must be destroyed."
     Nick shook his head, "Shame,"
     Scott nodded his head in complete agreement.  Suddenly, a
slight growl came from the far distance.  The two of them froze, and
slowly moved their heads around to see what was out there.
     "What was that?"  Nick quietly asked.
     "The dog," Scott whispered.
     "Okay, listen; do not make any sudden moves.  Stay completely
still."  Scott recommended.
     "Okay," Nick whispered, slightly scared.
     Scott carefully reached down, and felt his way around.  He
unzipped the bag, and gently pulled out two wooden stakes.  An
overwhelming urge came across Scott's vampire senses.  He felt the
dog's presence, and he was very close and hungry.
     "Don't move; he's right in front of you."  Scott said softly.
     "How do you know?" Nick asked, puzzled.
     "I can sense him."  Scott whispered.
     Scott intensified his vampire eyes, and saw the dog slowly
approaching.  The dog slowly came into view, and stood directly in
front of Nick.  He froze; like a statue, nor did he blink.
     "Whoa," Scott said in shock.
     "Now what?"  Nick asked.
     "Oh, you need to stare him down.  Don't take your eyes off
him."  Scott requested.
     Nick stared the dog down, and did not move an inch, straight
eye-to-eye contact.  Scott used his vampire powers carefully floating
upward, and over his head then behind the dog.  He used his eyes to
track the dog, and hoped Nick did not see him.  Nick's nerves were
building sweating up a storm, and became sluggish.  Scott sensed
this, and moved quicker.  Scott took a few steps towards the dog and
accidentally broke a twig.  He looked at the dog, and the dog lurched
into Nick's direction.  He fought the dog, and tried to keep from
being bit.  Scott flew over, picked up Nick, and tossed him aside. 
He grabbed the dog, and turned him over.  With all his strength;
launched the stake into the dog's heart, and the dog let out a
painful yelp then died instantly.  Scott saw that Nick was not moving.
     Scott ran to Nick's side, and slowly turned him around to see
if he was hurt.  He placed his head upon his chest; his heart was
beating, and checked for a pulse.  It was slow, but there; Scott ran,
and grabbed another stake then ran back to the dog; finished him off.
He raised the stake jamming it again into his heart, and Saben yelped
then vanished without a trace.  Scott stood up, and brushed his
clothes off, then went back to Nick.  He knelt down by his side, and
tapped his arm.
     "Nick, Nick," Scott said worried.
     Nick woke up, and leaned on Scott's leg, "My head,"
     "Were you bitten?"  Scott asked.
     Nick sat up, and still rubbing his head.  Scott examined his
neck, and chest, "Nick, look at me," 
     Nick looked directly up into his eyes, and Scott looked at him
very carefully, "Were you bitten?"  Scott asked firmly.
     "No, where's the dog?"  Nick inquired.
     "Gone," Scott answered.
     Scott helped Nick to his feet and brushed the dirt off his
clothes, "Gone, where?"  Nick asked.
     "I destroyed it; it had to be done."  Scott replied.
     "What?"  Nick questioned, stunned.
     "I'm sorry, but we were not alone."  Scott said softly.
     "Damn, let's go."  Nick suggested.
     "I'll drive; I'll fix you up at home."  Scott said.
     "Okay," Nick whispered.
     "Can you walk?"  Scott inquired.
     "Think so," Nick replied, a little shaky.
     Scott grabbed an arm, and helped him to the car.  He opened the
door helping Nick into the car, and closed the door.  He walked over
to the driver side, and climbed in.  He started the engine, and drove
quickly to Nick's home.
     "Nick, do you know where you are?"  Scott questioned.
     "I'm in my car going home, I hope."  Nick responded.
     "Nick, the owner was watching us.  So I do not think that was
the owner you found.  It might have been food for the dog."  Scott
said.
     Nick gagged slightly, "Gross,"
     Scott saw the spot, and quickly pulled into it.  He passed a
car parked along the curb.  The woman climbed out, and ran to Scott. 
She walked around seeing that Nick was hurt, and her eyes became
teary eyed.
     "What happened?"  Molly asked.
     "Cop stuff, you must be Molly."  Scott replied.
     "Yes," Molly answered.
     "He's mentioned you, a lot."  Scott said.
     "Let me help," Molly offered.
     Molly placed his arm over her shoulder, Scott took the other
and they helped him inside.  They walked onto the elevator, and rode
up to his place.  They opened the door, and stumbled in as the door
closed automatically behind them.  They sat Nick on the couch, and
Molly sat at his side looking at his head.  Scott grabbed his bag,
and placed it by Molly.
     "I need to check on our friend.  Let me know when he's fully
awake and if you need anything."  Scott requested.
     "Okay," Molly replied.
     Molly leaned Nick back into the couch, and tended to his wound.
Scott ran upstairs into LaCroix's room, and saw him not moving. 
Scott quickly ran back downstairs, into his bag, and grabbed the bag
with the needle.  He ran back to LaCroix, and helped him.
     Molly wiped his head clean, and tried to wake him up more. 
Suddenly, Nick snapped out of the fear lock, and saw Molly sitting
there.  He reached out to her and grabbed her very tightly.  Molly
was a little surprised then relieved.
     "Nick, what's wrong?"  Molly asked.
     "For the first time, in a long time, I was terrified of that
dog."  Nick admitted.
     "It's okay now; you're safe; I'm here."  Molly said to assure
him.
     "I'm so glad," Nick replied.
     Molly let go of him, and sat him back to breathe in some air. 
She held his hand to keep him calm.
     "It's okay to be scared.  You felt out of control because you
didn't know what to do."  Molly expressed.
     "What do you do?"  Nick inquired.
     "Tell a friend, its okay to tell me, if you wish."  Molly
implied.
     "Definitely," Nick said with a smile.
     Molly felt another emotion he needed to express; but had a
little fear of it.  She leaned to him, and whispered in his ear.
     "Nick, it's also okay to cry.  You're under a lot of pressure,
and you are never too old."  Molly whispered
     Nick looked to her eyes seeing the love, and warmth there,
"Thank you," he said with a slight sob.
     Scott came down stairs, and saw them on the couch.  He knew he
should wait; but LaCroix couldn't.  He quietly walked over, and
cleared his throat.  Molly wiped his face, and he turned to face
Scott.
     "Nick, I'm sorry, but I need you upstairs."  Scott replied.
     "What's wrong?"  Nick asked.
     "A coma," Scott told him.
     Nick turned to Molly, and looked to her holding her hand, "Will
you?"
     "I'll be right here; I'll make some coffee."  Molly said to
calm his nerves.
     "Thanks," Nick said, grinned.
     Molly strolled into the kitchen area, and prepared the coffee. 
Scott and Nick ran upstairs to LaCroix.  Scott on one side, and Nick
on the other.  Nick reached over taking his hand, and looked upon
him.  Suddenly, LaCroix opened his eyes, and gave them a jolt.
     "Whoa," Scott said, stunned.
     "LaCroix?" Nick said.
     "Nicholas," LaCroix whispered.
     "How do you feel?"  Nick asked.
     "Fading fast," LaCroix replied.
     An urge came across Scott's senses standing up to look behind
him and there, stood the Enforcers just watching.
     "Help him, NOW!"  Scott demanded.
     "You destroyed the dog."  Munzo stated.
     "Yes I did, my last request is for you to cure him, NOW!" 
Scott insisted.
     "As you wish," Tian answered.
     "Nick, leave the room, NOW."  Scott said firmly.
     "But…"  Nick replied.
     "NOW!  Go to Molly."  Scott insisted.
     Nick looked to LaCroix one more time, and left the room.  He
strolled down the hallway; and down the stairs to the arms of Molly.
     Tian reached into his pocket, and pulled out a small glass tube
filled with a blue liquid.  He carefully handed it to Scott, and a
small silver knife.  Scott placed the cork in his mouth pulling it
out, and quickly sliced his wrist.  He opened LaCroix's mouth pouring
the liquid into it then placed his wrist next.  LaCroix began to
shake with a small growl.  He grabbed onto his wrist, and fed.  As
LaCroix became stronger, Scott became weaker.  Scott slowly fainted
and fell off the bed.  Tian walked over picking him up, and swung him
over his shoulder.  LaCroix woke standing up quickly up off the bed,
and directly in front of Munzo.  LaCroix could sense Scott all around
him, and through his veins.
     "You are forbidden to ever come again."  LaCroix ordered then
looked to Tian, "Put him down." 
     Tian placed Scott onto the bed, and stepped away.  Munzo
stepped back with Tian looked to LaCroix, "Goodbye,"
     LaCroix's vampire anger appeared his eyes were a bright green,
and his fangs in view, "Leave now!"
     They took a few steps back, and faded from sight.  LaCroix
walked over to Scott, and rolled him over; Scott barely existed.  He
saw his wrist; LaCroix raised his, and bit it open then placed their
wrists together then hoped that Scott would return.  Scott rolled his
eyes around taking the wrist away, and watched him carefully.
     Nick heard the thud from upstairs touching Molly's arm, and ran
up there to see what had happened.  He ran down to LaCroix's room,
and saw he was okay, but Scott was out.
     "What happened?  LaCroix?" Nick asked in shock.
     "Yes," LaCroix said.
     "Scott?" Nick inquired.
     Scott very slowly sat up on the bed, and stared at the two of
them.
     "You okay?" Nick asked.
     Scott shook his head, and Nick placed his attention to LaCroix.
     "LaCroix," Nick uttered.
     "I'm fine, cured, if you will."  LaCroix expressed.
     Nick reached over, and gave him a slight hug of relief and joy,
"I'm glad you're better.  You had me really scared."
     "So am I; now, he needs to rest.  You go back to her, and I
will tend to our friend here."  LaCroix suggested.
     "Let him rest, I want you to meet her."  Nick said eagerly.
     LaCroix shook his head yes.  Scott slowly drifted off to sleep,
and LaCroix followed Nick downstairs to meet the lovely lady. 
LaCroix stood by his side and noticed his head.
     "Your head?" Nick said.
     "I'm fine, come on."  LaCroix said to rest his fears.
     They saw her sitting on the couch sipping on some coffee.  Nick
strolled over giving her a gentle kiss on the top of her head, and
she turned to face him with a smile.  Molly stood up and wrapped her
arm around his waist.  LaCroix quietly approached them, and Nick
cleared his throat.
     "LaCroix, this is Molly Ebourn.  Molly, my friend and cousin,
Lucien LaCroix."  Nick introduced them.
     "Hello," Molly said to greet him.
     "My pleasure," LaCroix grinned, kissing her hand, "I'm going
for some coffee, Nicholas?"
     "No thanks," Nick answered.
     LaCroix quietly excused himself, and went into the kitchen
area, and prepared some coffee.
     "I am sorry, I never asked you, why are you here?"  Nick
inquired.
     "You ran an hour late for our dinner, and I heard the news
about the attack, and I thought…"  Molly expressed.
     "I'm sorry, if being a cop…"  Nick replied.
     "I don't mind that, remember my father was one.  I was scared
for you."  Molly said worried.
     Nick smiled and kissed her warmly, and settled her nerves,
"Give me two minutes or so, and we'll go."
     "Let me take my car home and I'll wait for you there."  Molly
suggested.
     "Okay, becareful."  Nick implied.
     Nick watched her leave LaCroix seeing that odd look on his
face, and became concerned for him.  LaCroix finished his coffee, and
walked into the living room to talk with him.
     "Nicholas?" LaCroix said to draw his attention.
     "I have that strange feeling again."  Nick told him.
     "About Molly?" LaCroix insinuated, surprised.
     "Yeah," Nick whispered.
     LaCroix took notice in that sparkle in his eyes for Molly, and
snickered slightly, "My dear Nicholas, you're in love."
     "We've only had one date."  Nick replied.
     "That doesn't matter.  It is how you feel about each other.  It
may take time, but then, it may not."  LaCroix explained.
     "What do you do?"  Nick inquired.
     LaCroix just stared for a moment, "Nicholas, I'm too old, and
you should know."
     "Know what?"  Nick questioned.
     LaCroix felt that he was not kidding, and he did not remember
this when he became human.
     "I can not believe at mine, and your age; we need to discuss
the birds and the bees."  LaCroix said, softly.
     Nick crinkled his eyebrow, "What?" 
     LaCroix placed an arm around his back, and led him to the
couch.  LaCroix grabbed a bottle of wine, and two glasses on the way,
"It's time for wine, a talk before you go out for dinner." he said
clearing his throat, becoming the father figure again to Nick, and
guided him once again for life.
     *****
     Molly was back at home, and fixing her clothes waiting for Nick
to arrive.  Back at the station, Paul was working hard on Nick's
computer to locate the owner.  Nick had just arrived at Molly's home.
She opened the door, and smiled warmly to greet him.
     "Hi," Molly said smiling.
     "Hi, are you ready to go?"  Nick replied.
     "Oh yeah," Molly said, joyfully.
     Molly pulled the door closed, and locked it with her key.  She
took him by the arm, and they strolled out of the building to Nick's
car.  He opened the door, and she stepped in.  He closed the door
walking over to his side, and climbed in.  He grabbed his key, and
started the engine.  He backed out of the spot driving out into
traffic, and for the restaurant.  He saw it in the distance pulling
into the parking lot, and found a spot near the door.  He parked the
car, climbed out, and walked over to her side then opened the door. 
He extended his hand, and helped her out of the car.  They strolled
up to the door, and entered the restaurant.  The waitress came over,
and escorted them to a corner booth at the back of the restaurant. 
As she exited, a waiter came up, and waited for their order.  Nick
silently ordered two glasses of white wine, and left placing two
menus down for them.
     The restaurant lit by candles, and left a soft scent throughout
the room.  They gazed upon each other, and held hands across the
table.  Nick suddenly lowered his head away from Molly.  She lightly
squeezed his hand to draw his attention.
     "What's wrong?"  Molly asked.
     "I'm a little embarrassed for what happened earlier.  No one
has ever seen me like that, except for LaCroix."  Nick expressed.
     Molly remembered, and showed a little shock for him, then
impressed for what he was sharing, "I'm honored; I love it when a man
is not afraid to express fear, or cry in front of a woman.  You also
told me that my thoughts about you; are true."
     Nick looked into her eyes, "That was?"
     "You are a very warm, honest, open person, and a hopeless
romantic.  You still have a wall up, you don't trust easily."  Molly
replied.
     "I've had a lot of hurt in the past."  Nick told her.
     "Me too," Molly said.
     "I have the same feelings for you."  Nick said, sharing his
heart.
     Molly grinned slightly, "One more thing,"
     "What's that?"  Nick questioned.
     "You blush easily as well," Molly said grinning.
     "You are very special, Molly," Nick expressed warmly.
     "You, too," Molly said in return.
     The waiter slowly approached the table, and they placed their
orders.  The waiter walked away while he finished writing it down. 
Suddenly, soft piano music played from the dance floor.  Nick stood
up, extending his hand to Molly, and escorted her to the dance floor.
They caressed one another, and slowly danced upon the floor.  Molly
flowed within his arms, and rested her head upon his chest.  He
gently ran his hand up and down the center of her back, and caressed
her even tighter; almost to the point where they could not breathe. 
Molly raised her head to meet his eyes, and they gazed upon each
other.  The warmth of their passion caused them to kiss each other
tenderly.  The song slowly ended; they stopped kissing, and dancing. 
Nick walked her back to the table, and he sat down as well.  Their
dinner was their waiting for them so they enjoyed their meal.
     *****
     LaCroix was sitting on the bed waiting for Scott to awaken.  He
stared at him as though he was trying to get inside of him.
     "Scott?" LaCroix uttered.
     Scott sat up quickly, and grabbed his head, "What happened?"
     "You saved my life; I'm grateful."  LaCroix expressed.
     "You would do anything for your friend."  Scott quoted.
     "What?"  LaCroix asked.
     "Something Nick said; I agree," Scott said.
     LaCroix let out a slight laugh, "So do I,"
     Scott looked all around the room and had no sense of Nick,
"Where's Nick?"
     "With Molly," LaCroix answered.
     Scott developed that wide-eyed look of fear, "He's not safe
yet.  The dog is dead, but the owner is still out there."
     "Will he be with you?"  LaCroix questioned.
     "Yes, and if he did one dog, he could have more.  We have to
find him, NOW!"  Scott insisted.
     "Let's go.  He cannot be far.  Let's look for his car." 
LaCroix suggested.
     Scott jumped out of the bed, and stood next to him, "I'm ready,"
     LaCroix opened the window, and they took to the dark sky of the
night.
     *****
     Back at the station, Paul had entered the last clue into the
computer.  It began to process the information, and he saw the final
answer.  He was so relieved he yelled through out the room, and the
stress left.  Reese jolted by this walking out of his office to see
what was going on.  He saw Paul yelling from Nick's desk tapping the
desk with complete delight.  He strolled over to see what he had done.
     "Hey," Reese said loudly.
     Paul was excited to see him, "Cap; I have done it.  I know
where Stanley is and the painting, but we need to wait till daytime."
     "What?"  Reese asked.
     "I have one more hunch to deal with.  I will call Nick, and we
will meet at Charlie's Pizza Place; across the street from Stan's. 
We will put the puzzle together, trust me."  Paul replied.
     "Who was the guy in the house?"  Reese questioned.
     "We think it was food for the dog, a homeless person.  The Doc
is still working on that."  Paul answered.
     "One o'clock?" Reese queried.
     "Done," Paul agreed.
     Paul grabbed his things, walking quickly out of the building,
and down to his car.  He opened the door, and climbed in starting the
engine.  While the car was warming up, he pulled out his cell phone
and dialed up Nick.
     *****
     Back at the restaurant, they had just finished dinner and they
were enjoying the last of the wine when his cell phone rang.  He
placed the glass down, and looked to Molly.
     "It's okay," Molly said softly.
     Nick pulled the phone out of his pocket, "Knight,"
     "Hey man, I'm really sorry, meet me at Charlie's Pizza Place at
one o'clock; extremely important."  Paul replied.
     "Okay," Nick said.
     "How's the date?"  Paul inquired.
     "Bye," Nick replied.
     Molly reached for his hand, and looked at his eyes, "Nick, one
more time, if it bothered me dating a cop, I would not be here, okay?
So, don't worry, your job is twenty-four hours, seven days a week,
and so is mine; at times."
     "Thanks, I am sorry about the movie, but…"  Nick said.
     "That's okay, you'll owe me."  Molly said with a grin.
     Nick let out a small laugh, "Okay, dinner at my place.  I'm a
pretty good cook."
     Molly expressed that shocked look, "You cook?"  
     "Yeah," Nick whispered.
     "Definitely," Molly warmly accepted.
     "Seven o'clock?" Nick requested.
     "I'll be there and I'll bring the special wine."  Molly
suggested.
     "Done," Nick said with a warm smile.
     Nick reached into his pocket for his wallet, placing money onto
the table, and stood up and extended his hand to help her stand. 
They exited the restaurant walking over to the car, and opened her
door.  She climbed in, and closed the door.  He walked over to his
side, and climbed in.  He pulled out his key, and started the engine.
He backed out of the spot, and drove her home slowly.  They enjoyed
some small talk, and looked at the sights of the nighttime.
     Nick saw her building, and pulled into the parking lot.  He
parked the car out front, and turned the engine off.  He stepped out,
and around to her side.  He opened the door, and she climbed out. 
They warmly held hands, and walked up the path to the door, then to
her apartment door.  She pulled out her key, and unlocked the door. 
Molly gazed up at him, and he in return.  They pulled each other
close, and kissed very passionately.  Nick felt that urge coming on,
and he forced himself to open the door.  She walked in, she closed
the door, and Nick heard it lock.  He slowly walked down the
corridor, and to the outside.  He took in a deep breath to relax his
nerves, and smiled.  Nick looked at his car, and saw LaCroix and
Scott waiting for him.
     Nick quickly walked over to them, all worried, "What's happened?"
     "We need to talk, but you need to stay with us."  Scott said.
     "It's not safe yet," LaCroix said.
     "But, the dog is dead."  Nick replied.
     "The owner is still out there, and might have more."  Scott
told him.
     "Paul called earlier, he had said he had it all figured."  Nick
replied.
     "Did he say where he was going?"  LaCroix inquired.
     "Yeah; I'll call him."  Nick answered.
     Nick reached down pulling out his cell phone, and dialed him
up.  No answer so he dialed up Reese.
     "Reese," Reese announced.
     "Knight, where's Paul?"  Nick asked.
     "On a lead," Reese answered.
     "He's not answering his cell phone."  Nick explained.
     "It's on your computer, hold on."  Reese replied quickly.
     Nick looked over to LaCroix, "He's looking,"
     Reese grabbed a piece of paper writing it down, and ran back to
his office then picked up the phone, "He's heading for East twenty-
eight and Marble forty-second street.  I'll send some guys out to
assist you."
     Nick hung up his phone, and placed it into his pocket, "Let's
go, we'll talk on the way."
     Scott climbed into the back, and LaCroix sat next to Nick. 
Nick started the engine pulling out, and headed for the address.
     Scott leaned forward, and looked towards Nick, "If there are
more of these dogs; they need to be destroyed as well.  He needs to
be stopped.  This knowledge is very dangerous."
     "He'll be put away where he can't make anymore."  Nick said.
     "But…"  Scott started.
     "He'll be dealt with."  Nick replied.
     "All right," Scott said.
     LaCroix feared he knew what must be done; but how to do it
where Nick will not know.  They slowly approached the address, and he
saw Paul's car.  He was sitting in the car waiting.  Nick pulled
directly behind him, and turned the engine off.
     "You two wait here."  Nick insisted.
     "Fine," LaCroix said.
     Nick quietly stepped out of his car, slowly walked up to Paul,
and carefully climbed in, and Paul jumped a few feet.
     "Hey, give me the run down."  Nick inquired.
     "This is a guy named Warren Yialian; he's one of Stan's
gooneys.  He would know where to find him.  And the painting was back
at the crime scene."  Paul briefed him.
     "Where?"  Nick asked.
     Paul hesitated for a second, "Working on it.  Reese had Jack
watching it."
     "I brought my cousin and his friend to help.  Scott killed the
dog, but he felt their might be more."  Nick told him.
     "LaCroix's better?" Paul inquired.
     "Yeah," Nick whispered.
     "Cool," Paul said happily.
     "Very cool," Nick agreed.
     "You ready?" Paul inquired.
     "Reese said wait for him."  Nick replied.
     "I'll try, how was the date?"  Paul asked.
     "Great," Nick answered.
     Paul tapped Nick's leg, "After this is over, want to go camping
for the weekend?"  Paul suggested.
     "I've never been camping before."  Nick said.
     "You'll love it, bring Molly.  That way, Carla, has a friend." 
Paul told him.
     "Carla?" Nick uttered surprised.
     "You've been brewing with Molly, and I got Carla." Paul said
smiling.
     "Great, she's coming over to my place for dinner; I'll ask
her."  Nick expressed.
     "Your place, got a rubber?"  Paul inquired.
     "A what?"  Nick asked, confused.
     "Has it been that long?"  Paul questioned, stunned.
     "I guess; I don't remember," Nick replied.
     "One stop before home," Paul strongly suggested.
     "Okay," Nick whispered.
     A car pulled in front of them turning its lights off, and the
engine.  A person climbed out, walked back to Paul's and opened the
door to the back seat then climbed in.  As Paul turned to greet
Reese, he saw Nick's car was empty.  He tapped his arm, and pointed
to the back.
     "Hey, look at your car."  Paul said.
     "Damn," Nick sighed.
     "Problem," Reese asked.
     Nick looked to Paul trying to hide the fact that LaCroix, and
Scott were missing.  They climbed out of the car, and met at the hood
of the car.  The two men from Reese's car joined them.
     "Okay, Nick you take the front, Paul, the left side, Tony, the
back, and I'll be on the right side, let's not miss guys.  We need to
do this quick, got it."  Reese ordered.
     "Got it," Paul said.
     They very quietly left, and walked across the street to their
assigned places.  As Nick stepped up to the front door, he looked
around for LaCroix and Scott.  Nick carefully reached up behind his
back, and pulled out his gun.  He pulled the safety off to be ready
for action.  He gently touched the doorknob slowly turning it, and
the door opened.  A sickly odor flew by his nose; pulling out his
hanky, he covered his nose.  He cautiously walked in, and looked at
everything.  He looked at every corner, every closet, and behind
every wall.  Paul walked around to the front, and stepped in.  He
slowly made his way to Nick.  Tony and Reese came through the back
door.  They checked every room, nothing.  They all met in the main
hallway, and there was one room not checked yet.  Nick and Paul were
on the left, and Tony and Reese took the right side.  They slowly
approached the door, Reese stepped off to the side, and Nick was
behind Paul.  Reese carefully knocked on the door.
     "Police!"  Reese said.
     No answer; so Reese silently told Paul to kick in the door. 
Paul carefully stepped in front of the door.  He looked to Nick,
nodded his head, Paul raised his leg, and kicked the door in.  As the
door swung open, the stench was so overwhelming; Paul almost fainted
from the aroma.  Nick reached out, catching him, and helped him to
lean against the wall.  They peeked around the doorway and they saw a
body hanging from the ceiling; not in good shape.  Off to the far-
left corner, there were two dead dogs as well.  They pulled their
heads back, and relaxed for a moment.  Nick kept an eye on Paul. 
Reese cleared his throat, and looked for Tony to assist.
     "Call Doctor Michaels, and tell her, she and the lab are
needed, prepare them."  Reese ordered.
     "Yes, sir," Tony answered.
     Tony stepped aside, and used the cell phone to call her.
     "One question?"  Reese requested.
     "What's that?"  Paul replied.
     "Was that Stanley or Warren?  Everybody outside, Tony, tape off
this place, it's in the trunk."  Reese insisted.
     "Yes, sir." Tony said.
     Everyone left the house, and Tony started to tape off the
house.  They walked across the street, and met at Reese's car.  They
stood around Reese, and gave him full attention.
     "Okay, boys, talk," Reese implied.
     "Warren, was one of Stanley's goons."  Paul started.
     "You said the painting was at his place."  Nick inquired.
     They looked at each other like they're talking through their
minds, and Reese saw something brewing.
     "Go," Reese ordered.
     Nick and Paul headed for their cars, and drove quickly to
Stanley's place.  They parked across the street climbing out, and
stood off to the side.  As they looked upon the house, they saw a
light on; reaching for their weapons, they slowly walked across the
street then up to the front door.  Nick led the way in, and very
cautiously turned the doorknob then stepped in.  Paul followed
closely behind, and they looked at every angle possible.  As they
approached the living room, they heard a man banging, and digging. 
They looked around the corner, and saw him digging in the middle of
the floor.  Stanley smashed the ax one more time, and hit something
metal.  He tossed it aside kneeling down, and picked up a silver
cylinder.  He used a rag to clean it off, and slowly opened it. 
Pulled out the contents, and it was the painting.  He laughed then
placed it back inside.  He climbed out of the hole, and dusted off
his clothes.  Nick and Paul quickly stepped in with both guns aimed
at him, and stared him down.
     "Freeze, police," Nick yelled.
     Stanley realized there was no way out turning to face them, and
his face built up with anger.  Stanley stared at Nick's face, and the
anger just built.
     "You killed Saben!"  Stanley yelled.
     Nick felt something was about to go wrong and stepped closer to
him, "NO!"
     From Nick's left side a huge black dog appeared, snarling and
growling.  Nick just froze, and aimed the gun at the dog.  Paul still
centered on Stanley, and behind Nick was LaCroix.  He saw the
situation, and observed.  Suddenly the dog charged at Nick, and he
fired a few rounds from his gun, and Paul joined in.  LaCroix grabbed
the dog with his vampire strength, and tossed him through the window.
Scott was outside waiting and he grabbed the dog; he raised the
stake, and jammed it into his heart then the dog faded away.  LaCroix
swooped out of the room, and to Scott outside.  Paul grabbed Stanley,
wrestling him to the floor and pulled out the handcuffs, and placed
them on his wrists behind his back.  Paul jumped into the hole
grabbing the cylinder, and dusted it off.  He climbed out helping
Stanley to his feet, and walked over to Nick.  Then all three walked
outside where LaCroix and Scott were waiting for Nick.  Reese and
Tony saw everybody, and joined in.
     "Scott," Nick said, surprised.
     "Oh man, is that it, I hate this job."  Scott sighed.
     Nick ran up to Scott and lifted his head up, "You okay,"
     "Yeah; I think so," Scott replied, slightly stunned.
     Nick and LaCroix helped Scott to his feet, and gave him the
once over, "You two okay?"
     "I believe so; I'll take him home."  LaCroix suggested.
     "I'll see you there."  Nick replied.
     Nick turned his back, and walked over to them.  They took to
flight, and vanished.  Reese saw them standing there.  Tony took
Stanley away, and placed him in the car.
     "NICK!"  Reese yelled.
     Nick turned to face him, "The dog is dead, and gone."
     "Gone?" Reese inquired.
     "It had to be destroyed, its blood was toxic."  Nick expressed.
     "True, I want you two to return this painting in the morning to
the Gallery."  Reese requested.
     "Okay," Nick said eagerly.
     He started to hand him the painting; but took it back slightly.
     "First, come into the station finish the paperwork, then the
Gallery, okay."  Reese replied.
     Paul raised his fingers and saluted him.  "Got it,"
     Reese just sighed, "Great job, you two go home and get some
sleep."
     Nick and Paul strolled across the lawn, onto the street, and
headed for their own car.
     Paul yelled out to Nick, "Nick, the store first."
     "Lead the way."  Nick requested.
     They climbed into their cars, and started the engines.  Paul
pulled up, and Nick followed behind him.  They carefully drove down
the road, and headed for the nearest drugstore.  They pulled in, and
parked the cars near the front of the store.  They turned the engines
off, and climbed out.  They slowly walked to the front door, and into
the store.  Paul led the way down the family aisle.  He looked at
them, and Nick was a little lost.  Paul picked up the biggest box and
handed it to him.  Nick flipped the box around, and looked at Paul.
     "What's this?"  Nick asked.
     Paul snickered slightly, "You're kidding, right?"
     "No," Nick answered softly.
     Paul rubbed his face, "It's been that long?"
     Nick gave him that confused look, and Paul saw he was not
kidding.  Paul leaned over, and looked around to be sure its safe. 
He leaned over to Nick's ear, and whispered quietly what he was
holding, and what they're for.
     "Okay," Paul replied.
     Nick hesitated for the moment to think about what he said,
"Really?"
     "Be safe then sorry."  Paul suggested.
     "They don't ruin the…?"  Nick inquired.
     "No, come on," Paul said, pulling him along.
     They strolled up to the register, and Nick paid for them.  He
took the bag, and they exited the store.  They strolled over to
Nick's car, and Paul tapped his arm.
     "Always carry one or two, and put the rest in the drawer by
your bed."  Paul suggested.
     "Okay, are we still on for pizza?"  Nick asked.
     "You bet, one o'clock."  Paul said happily.
     "Cool," Nick said.
     "Hey," Paul replied.
     They each climbed into their own car, and returned home.  Nick
opened the door, and entered as the door closed automatically behind
him.  He stumbled in tossing the bag onto the table behind the couch,
and flopped onto the couch.  LaCroix took notice of Nick on the couch
slowly walking in, and sat down in the chair.  Nick felt a set of
eyes staring at him looking over, and saw LaCroix their just staring
at him.  Nick quickly sat up, and leaned on the arm of the couch.
     "How's Scott?"  Nick inquired.
     "He's fine, he left for home."  LaCroix said.
     "He seems nice," Nick commented.
     "Yes, he is," LaCroix sighed with a slight grin.
     "I am so glad it's over.  Will you be okay for a weekend to
four days; alone?"  Nick asked.
     "Why?"  LaCroix questioned.
     "Paul invited Molly and I to go camping with him and Carla." 
Nick explained.
     "I'll be fine," LaCroix answered with a slight laugh.
     "Great," Nick said.
     Nick raised his arms up rubbing his whole head, and the back of
his neck, "Man, I'm beat,"
     "Get some rest; it's been a long night."  LaCroix suggested.
     "Yeah, and it's only ten 'o'clock."  Nick remarked.
     LaCroix stood up, and stood at his side, "Let's go,"
     LaCroix and Nick slowly climbed the stairs, and to their rooms.
Nick stumbled in, and took his shoes off.  He walked over, and into
the bathroom.  He closed the door half way then a flush.  He pushed
the door open, and strolled over to his dresser.  He pulled out his
nightclothes stepping over to the bed, and tossed them down.  He
stripped down, and dressed for bed.  He tossed the other clothes onto
the chair.  He pulled down the covers climbing into his cozy bed, and
covered himself up.  Nick reached over, and set the alarm for later. 
He lay back onto his big fluffy pillow, and drifted off into
dreamland.
     *****
     The hours of the night passed into day rather slowly.  The sun
beamed through the cracks of the blinds, and shined upon Nick's bed. 
He rolled over away from the window, and towards his nightstand. 
Suddenly, the alarm went off, and it gave him a slight jolt.  He
stretched over and shut the alarm off.  He lay back, and took his
time waking up.  Next thing, his phone rang reaching over for it, and
picked it up.  Nick cleared his throat.
     "Knight," Nick announced.
     "Hey man," Paul responded.
     "What's up?"  Nick asked.
     "Let's see, paperwork, Gallery, and lunch.  How's that?"  Paul
listed off.
     "Good," Nick said.
     "See you in thirty," Paul implied.
     "Maybe," Nick teased him.
     "Okay; ice-cube time," Paul said, jokingly.
     "Okay, okay; I'm up, later."  Nick replied quickly.
     Nick reached over, and hung up the phone.  He sat up, and
rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.  He pulled the covers off, and sat
on the side of the bed.  As Nick looked up, saw LaCroix standing in
the doorway.
     "Morning," LaCroix said to greet him.
     "Hey," Nick mumbled.
     "What's your agenda today?"  LaCroix inquired.
     Nick stood up, and stretched his whole body; "Paul called, he
said paperwork, the Gallery, and lunch.  Tonight, Molly is coming,
and I'm cooking dinner."
     "I see; I'll be at the Raven."  LaCroix told him.
     "Thanks, I am glad you're better.  I don't want to lose you
ever." Nick expressed warmly.
     "Nor do I," LaCroix agreed.
     "I need to clean up, and I'll make some coffee."  Nick said.
     LaCroix thought for the moment, "You get cleaned up and I'll
make the coffee."
     "Deal," Nick agreed.
     Nick stumbled into the bathroom to clean up.  LaCroix turned,
and walked down the hallway to the staircase.  He strolled down the
stairs, and walked into the kitchen.  As he prepared the coffee, a
sudden urge came across his senses carefully placing the mugs down,
and slowly turned around to see Scott standing there staring at him.
     "Scott," LaCroix said.
     "LaCroix," Scott replied in return.
     "Are you all right?"  LaCroix inquired.
     "I'm fine, the Carouche scare is gone, and Nicholas is now to
be left alone, for good."  Scott expressed.
     "Really?" LaCroix sighed.
     "He has no memory of their past, or you or I.  So, Nick will be
safe forever."  Scott said.
     "Good, I will make sure it stays that way.  What do you plan to
do now?"  LaCroix inquired.
     "I'm returning to France until needed again."  Scott planned.
     Before Scott finished explaining his plan, Nick approached from
the stairs, and saw Scott standing in the kitchen with LaCroix.  He
quickly walked up to him, and touched his upper arm.
     "Scott, you okay?" Nick inquired.
     "Yes," Scott responded.
     Nick looked into his eyes, and saw he was not staying, "You're
leaving?"
     "Yes, I'm returning to France."  Scott told him.
     "But I need you to sign some papers on the dog being
destroyed."  Nick requested.
     "You sign it," Scott hinted.
     Nick looked to LaCroix then to Scott, "I don't know your last
name."
     "It's a…" Scott hesitated for the moment and thought quietly of
an old name; "It's Scott James,"
     "Okay, thanks for everything.  You're always welcomed here." 
Nick expressed warmly.
     "Thanks, Nick," Scott said with a slight grin.
     Nick slowly reached up, and gave Scott a farewell hug goodbye. 
LaCroix saw this, and felt the need to do the same.  Therefore, he
walked up, and wrapped his arms around the two of them.
     Suddenly, the door buzzed, it opened with Paul entering the
room, and witnessing the heart-warming scene of the people hugging. 
He quietly walked up, and observed them.  He snickered quietly, and
swallowed to clear his throat.
     "Is this a family hug?  Are friends invited?"  Paul insinuated.
     Nick saw the opportunity to embarrass him slightly, "Sure,"
     They all reached over grabbing him, and squeezed him tightly,
"Big hug," Paul yelled.
     Nick felt the joke had failed; so they let go.  Nick rubbed the
stress from his face.  Paul slapped him on the arm to change the
subject.
     "Okay, the painting is outside to return, the paperwork is
outside, and all you need to do is sign."  Paul said.
     "What is it?"  Nick inquired.
     "Sign first, then pizza with a story."  Paul replied.
     Nick signed all the papers even the ones for Scott.  He handed
the papers to Paul, and he folded them then placed them into his
pocket.
     "The painting?" Nick inquired.
     "You can do that later, after your date."  Paul suggested.
     Nick thought for the moment, "No, before.  I want tonight to be
all pleasure; no work."

     "A little work is necessary."  Paul replied.
     Nick stepped up to Paul, and looked to him, "There is; yes; not
the painting."
     Paul hesitated, "True, we'll do it on the way to lunch."
     "Cool," Nick said.
     "Definitely," Paul grinned.
     Nick grabbed his things, and quickly left his place.  They rode
down the elevator to Paul's car.  They climbed into the car, and Paul
started the engine.  He carefully pulled out, and drove down the
street to the Gallery.  Paul pulled over to park along the curb.  He
put the car in park, and sat back to chill.
     "I'll wait here," Paul said, reaching into the back seat,
grabbed the cylinder, and handed the painting to Nick, "Here's the
painting,"
     "You sure?" Nick questioned.
     Paul turned slightly to face him, "Did you ask her about the
camping trip?"
     "I will tonight," Nick said.
     "Cool, go man, the pizza is waiting."  Paul said eagerly.
     Nick placed a smile upon his face, "Be right back,"
     Nick stepped out of the car walking up the sidewalk, and ran up
the stairs.  Nick entered the building, and saw Molly in the distance
by her office door.  She stood there reading a file, and it was very
quiet in the corridor.  You could almost hear a pin fall on the rug. 
Nick very quietly walked up to her warmly placing his arms around her
waist, and gently kissed her on the back of her neck.  She giggled
from the tickled feeling he gave her down her back.  Molly turned
around, and saw Nick's sparkling blue eyes.  She kissed him very
affectionately.  He returned same affection to her by the kiss they
share.  They each licked their lips from the warm kiss, and just
grinned upon each other, Nick stepped back to draw her attention away
from his Molly for a moment.
     "What brings you here?"  Molly inquired.
     "Well, two reasons," Nick said grinning.
     "One?" Molly replied.
     "I have that painting for you," Nick said, handing her the
cylinder.
     Molly accepted it, and hugged it, for its now safe back where
it belongs, "And two?"
     Nick smiled, "I missed seeing you."
     Molly took that one step closer, "I missed you as well."
     "Dinner still on?"  Nick inquired.
     "I wouldn't miss it for the world."  Molly said.
     "Great," Nick replied.
     "Want me to bring anything?"  Molly queried.
     "Just you," Nick said with his boyish charm.
     "Nick?" Molly whispered.
     "Molly?" Nick whispered back.
     "See you at six," Molly replied.
     "Six is better," Nick agreed.
     "See you then," Molly said.
     "All right," Nick replied.
     They warmly stood closer, and kissed each other so tenderly
then separated.  She moved to her office, and Nick slowly walked down
the corridor.  She turned slightly to watch him walk down, and out of
the building.  She gave her head a slight shake, and sat down at her
desk.
     Nick exited the building strolling down the stairs with a big
grin across his face, and Paul took definite notice.  Nick walked
over opening the door, and climbed in then closed the door.  He made
himself comfortable, and Paul just laughed.
     "Well?"  Paul inquired.
     Nick just stared at the window with no answer.
     Paul snapped his fingers, "Earth to Nick,"
     Nick turned his head to face him, "Yeah,"
     Paul leaned back, and began to tease him, "It was that good,"
     "Funny, she has the painting and we're on for six o'clock." 
Nick told him.
     "Cool, let's do lunch, and we need to get some flowers and
wine?"  Paul suggested.
     Nick came into focus, "Let's go,"
     Paul took his car out of park, and slowly pulled away from the
curb.  He drove a few feet down the street to the pizza place.  He
put the directional on, and pulled into the parking lot.  He pulled
into the empty spot near the front door.  They climbed out of the
car, slowly walked up the path, and opened the front door.  As they
entered, they walked over to an empty booth, and sat down.  A
waitress came over, Paul ordered the pizza and two beers, and she
left writing the order down.
     "Story time," Paul replied.
     "Go ahead," Nick said, giving him the floor.
     "Okay, the painting was a family painting.  His grandfather,
add a few greats to it and he wanted the painting back.  He was a
collector of rare things.  The dog, Saben, was one.  That guy Warren
set him up with the Carouche.  He trained the dog to kill so he could
get the painting.  He went in, and waited then gave the dog Carlton's
scent.  When he left, the dog killed him while Stanley took the
painting.  He saw the camera, took the key, and walked in then took
the tape."  Paul briefed him.
     Nick just shook his head at what he said, and developed a
puzzled look on his face, "Man, the girl?"
     "Wrong place, wrong time.  I met the boyfriend when you were
with Molly.  They were to be married next week, poor kid."  Paul
replied.
     "Saben?" Nick queried.
     "Like Scott said, it went mad, killed the owner, and Warren
too."    Paul replied.
     Nick felt relieved from that, "How did you know where the
painting was?"
     "Well, after they cleaned up, I saw the silver cylinder in the
closet, opened it and there it was."  Paul said amazed.
     "Why bury it in the floor?"  Nick questioned.
     "Would you think to look there?"  Paul insinuated.
     "No, increditable.  How did I miss the ending?"  Nick questioned.
     "Family illness," Paul answered.
     "But…"  Nick started.
     "No buts, Nick, that's what partners are for.  We pick up the
slack."  Paul told him.
     "So true," Nick agreed.
     As they finished wrapping up their conversation, the waitress
came with the pizza and the beer.  She carefully placed it in the
middle of the table; they each reached up, and grabbed a mug of beer.
They touched glasses, and toasted to another case closed.  But
mostly, to a close friendship, and to each other.  They placed the
glasses down, and dug into the pizza.  They ate, and enjoyed each
other's company.  As they finished the pizza, Nick noticed his watch,
and swallowed hard.
     "It's getting late; I have a few things to pick up for dinner."
Nick said rushed.
     "Okay, one more question then we'll go."  Paul pleaded.
     "Okay," Nick feared.
     "Who killed the dog?"  Paul asked.
     "Scott," Nick answered.
     "With what?"  Paul questioned.
     "Don't know," Nick replied, puzzled.
     "You didn't ask?" Paul inquired.
     "No, let's go." Nick said.
     Paul left his half on the table; they both stood, and walked
out of the restaurant.  They headed for his car, and climbed in.  He
started the engine, and pulled out of the parking lot.  They headed
for the store.  Nick reached into his pocket, and pulled out a small
list.  Paul leaned over to read it, and laughed.
     "What are you cooking?"  Paul asked.
     "Fettuccine with Alfredo Sauce, Garlic Bread, and a nice
Cahianti wine."  Nick read off to him.
     Paul just shook his hands at him.  They quickly walked around
the store, and picked those things he needed.  They quickly walked up
to the register, and the clerk rang them through.  Nick handed him
the card and he swiped it.  Nick signed; they walked out of the
store, and to the outside.  Nick carefully put the stuff in the
backseat, and climbed into the front seat.  Paul started the engine
pulling out, and headed for the florist.  Paul pulled up out front,
and Nick ran in.  He brought out a dozen pink roses, and stepped into
the car.  Paul drove him home.  Nick grabbed his things, and headed
in.  Paul carefully drove away.  Nick rode up to his place, and
opened the door.  The door closed automatically behind him.
     Nick reached under the cabinet, and pulled out his silver
bucket.  He filled it up with ice, and placed the wine bottle in it
so it would chill for dinner.  He started to prepare dinner.  As he
waited for the water to boil he ran upstairs, and changed for dinner;
he lit two candles to scent the upper rooms.  He came downstairs, and
saw the water was ready.  He placed the pasta in, adding a little
salt, and turned to get the best dishes.  He proceeded to set the
table for dinner.  He placed the roses into a crystal vase, and
placed it by her seat.  He went back into the kitchen, and began the
sauce.  He turned the heat off; but he left it there to keep it hot. 
Nick grabbed more matches, and lit every candle downstairs; but
mostly, the two on the table.  The room shined like moonlight
reflecting off a crystal ball.
     As Nick lit the last candle by the door, it buzzed, and
startled him for a second.  He blew out the match, and opened the
door.  In walked Molly, he took her by the hand, and gave her a
tender kiss upon her cheek.  He slowly escorted her in, and amazed by
the view.  Her eyes became teary by the atmosphere he created.  He
swung her over to her chair, showed her the roses, and pulled out her
chair.  As she sat down; he pushed the chair in.  He strolled into
the kitchen, brought out the garlic bread, and the wine bucket.  He
returned to the kitchen, and came back with dinner.  She observed
every move he had made.  Nick took hold of the wine, and popped the
cork.  He carefully poured the wine, and sat down in his chair.  They
held up their glasses, and said a silent toast to each other.  They
gazed into each other's eyes, and gently placed the glasses down. 
She gave the entire room a long glance, and smiled warmly.
     "This is heaven," Molly whispered.
     "Thank you," Nick replied.
     "I love the wine; it's very light, subtle."  Molly said.
     Nick smiled, "I'm glad you like it."
     They enjoyed small talk with the glances, and finished their
fancy dinner.  She sat back, savored the flavors of the meal, and the
last sips of the wine.
     Molly patted her moist lips, "Nick, that was a wonderful
dinner.  You really can cook."
     Nick raised his glass to her, "Thank you, do you want to sit in
the living room?"
     "Sure," Molly answered.
     Nick handed her the glasses, "Here, you take the glasses and
I'll pick up a little then I'll join you."
     "Okay," Molly said.
     Molly took the glasses, and strolled into the living room by
the couch.  Nick picked up the dishes, and placed them in the
dishwasher for later.  He washed his hands, slowly walked in, and
joined her on the couch.  He picked up the glasses, and handed one to
her.  He sat very close to her gently placing an arm up, and around
her shoulders to hug her while they enjoyed the wine; but mostly each
other.  Molly leaned over, and rested her head with her soft hair
upon his chest.  Nick cuddled in around, and gave a small kiss upon
her head.
     "I'm so glad the painting was returned."  Molly replied.
     "It was his ancestor who painted it." Nick said.
     "Nick, what else can you do besides cook?"  Molly inquired.
     Nick just smiled that boyish grin, "Well, I love the mountains,
reading, watching classic movies, music, dancing and quiet moments;
like now."
     "Me too, it seems we have a lot in common.  Have you ever been
to the beach?"  Molly asked.
     "Great; and no."  Nick answered.
     "We can do that when its summer time."  Molly suggested.
     They looked upon each other; Nick took the glasses, and placed
them down onto the table.  Nick gently leaned over, and kissed her
very passionately.  Molly slowly backed up slightly, and licked her
lips.
     "Nick, I need to use your…"  Molly hinted.
     Nick hesitated for the moment, and realized what she was
looking for, "Oh, first door on your left, upstairs, and a right
turn.  It's in my bedroom."
     "Be back in a few minutes, or you can come get me if I'm late."
Molly implied.
     "Okay," Nick whispered with a grin.
     Molly rose from the couch, and skimmed by his legs.  She slowly
walked up the stairs, and turned her head to see if he was watching
her.  Molly reached the top then disappeared.  Nick finished the last
sip of his wine, and heard the toilet flush.  He waited for a few
minutes, and no Molly.  Nick turned his head to the stairs, and still
no Molly.  He placed the glass down standing up, and walked over to
the stairs.  He slowly climbed the stairs, and walked to his room. 
As Nick turned the corner of doorway, he saw Molly sitting on the bed
only wearing a white lacy slip, and the covers to the bed drawn. 
There was soft piano music playing from the CD player by the window. 
The blinds closed; so the candles lighted the room.  Nick nervously
entered the room, and sat down very close to her on the bed.  His
eyes were teary-eyed, and filled with a heavenly vision.
     Nick gazed into her soft brown eyes, "What's this,"
     "Dessert, disappointed?" Molly inquired.
     "No; I'm speechless," Nick whispered.
     "Good," Molly smiled warmly.
     Molly slowly reached up, and started to unbutton his shirt. 
Nick carefully removed his shoes, and peeled off his socks. 
Suddenly, he became nervous, and a little scared.  He looked to
Molly, she saw the fear in his eyes, and hesitated.
     "Nick, what's wrong?"  Molly asked.
     "It's been a very long time since I've done this."  Nick told
her.
     "Me too," Molly answered. "It's okay,"
     "I hope you won't be sorry later."  Nick replied.
     Molly stroked his chest, and then his face, "We'll make our own
special way.  We'll both be fine."
     "Okay; I have those things in the…"  Nick tried to say to her.
     "Okay, later."  Molly said; feeling aroused.
     They held, and caressed each other with a very warm kiss. 
Molly grabbed hold of the collar of his shirt, and she gently pulled
Nick on top of her.  Nick willingly followed, slowly running his hand
down the side of her body, and along the outside of her leg then
carefully up the inside of her leg.  She jumped from his warm touch. 
She removed the shirt; Nick tightly took Molly into his arms, and
loved her all night long.
     The warm passionate hours passed, the sun rose, and it beamed
through the blinds then across the bed.  They were sound asleep in
each other's arms with warm smiles upon their faces.  A sunbeam
shined through, and woke Molly up.  She looked all around the room,
and Nick was still asleep.  Molly leaned over, and gave him a little
kiss that caused him to awake.
     "How are you feeling?"  Molly asked.
     Nick smiled very warmly, "Warm; I haven't felt like this in,"
     "Same here," Molly said. "I believe the word is loved."
     Nick slightly turned towards her, "That I do, love you,"
     Molly took a moment and smiled, "Same here; I'm in love with
you, too,"
     Nick smiled widely, "Great,"
     They kissed, and held each other then Molly stopped, and looked
into his eyes, "I'm going in for a shower then I'll cook breakfast."
     Nick sat slightly up, "Great, let's go,"
     "I've never done that."  Molly admitted.
     "Neither have I, let's go."  Nick said eagerly.
     "Okay," Molly replied smiling.
     They climbed out of the bed, and walked into the bathroom.  He
turned the water on, and Molly stepped in first then him.  They
slowly washed each other off, and they caressed once again.  Molly
lifted her body up wrapping her legs around Nick's waist, and he held
her as close as he could.  The heat of the water intensified their
passion in the shower.  They once again washed off; Molly excused
herself out of the shower, and dried off.  Nick stayed to finish the
shower.  She went back into the bedroom grabbing one of his t-shirts,
and walked downstairs.  She ventured into the kitchen, and prepared
breakfast for them.  Meanwhile, Nick had a grin he would never lose. 
He turned the water off, and stepped out of the shower.  He too,
dried off walking into his room, and grabbed some casual clothes.  He
strolled out of his room, and down the hallway.  As he approached the
staircase, he inhaled the aroma of home cooking.  He used his nose
climbing down the stairs, and into the kitchen.  He stepped up behind
Molly, hugging her around the waist, and placed a kiss on the back of
her neck.  He looked over her shoulder, and saw what she was cooking.
     "That's different," Nick commented.
     Molly let out a slight laugh, "It's an Omelet, try it."
     Molly cut a small piece, and passed it to him, "That's great,"
     "Good," Molly agreed.
     Molly gave him a little kiss, and he went to the table where it
was already set to perfection.  Molly walked in with the plates and
juice in on the table with a hot pot of coffee.
     "I need to go home for awhile, you know, clean clothes, and
stuff.  Is that okay?"  Molly inquired.
     "Sure, you want to do a movie later?"  Nick asked. 
     "Yes, they're running an old classic western tonight."  Molly
answered.
     "My favorite," Nick smiled.
     "Great, my place?" Molly suggested.
     "Done," Nick agreed.
     "Great," Molly grinned.
     They toasted to each other on that plan, and he cleared his
voice.
     "What are you doing Thursday through Sunday?"  Nick inquired.
     Molly swallowed her juice in a slight shock reaction, "Why?"
     "Paul rented two cabins up in the mountains.  He and Carla
invited us to join them."  Nick explained.
     Molly hesitated for a few and smiled, "That sounds like heaven,
love to."
     "Okay; I will call him, and tell him.  Breakfast was great, and
the company was perfect."  Nick expressed warmly.
     "Same here," Molly replied.
     They stood up walking towards each other, and passed a small
kiss then a grin.  They each picked up their dishes, and took them
into the kitchen then loaded up the dishwasher.
     Molly put her long over coat on, and looked to Nick.  He
politely escorted her to the door, and kissed her goodbye.  As Nick
opened the door for her, Paul strutted in as she passed by.  He gave
Molly a double look then looked to Nick.
     "It's written all over your face, how was it?"  Paul snickered.
     "Hey," Nick said.
     "Spill it," Paul said firmly.
     Nick knew he would not stop until he gets an answer, "Very nice,"
     "Who started it?"  Paul inquired.
     "She did, and I followed."  Nick answered.
     "And?" Paul queried.
     "The shower," Nick said.
     Paul displayed this surprised look, "There, too,"
     "I guess," Nick replied.
     Paul laughed slightly, "You animal, you,"
     "And, we're on for the weekend."  Nick told him.
     "Even better, now, take it slow and easy."  Paul insinuated.
     "Okay," Nick said.
     Paul clapped his hands to change the subject before he pushed
it too far, "What now?"
     Nick picked up his things, and fixed his watch, "Two stops, the
store, and the Raven."
     "What's at the store?"  Paul asked.
     "Going to Molly's for a movie; I need some flowers and wine." 
Nick said.
     Paul slapped Nick on the back and grinned, "I'm so thrilled for
you.  Raven first, then the store."
     "Great, I'll drive."  Nick implied.
     "You're on, I took the bus."  Paul replied.
     "Fine," Nick said slightly laughing.
     Nick led the way to the door, and opened it.  Paul stepped out
first, and Nick followed behind locking the door.  They rode down the
elevator, and walked over to Nick's car.  They climbed in, and he
started the engine.  He backed out, headed out into the street, and
headed for the Raven.  Nick parked the car out front, and they
stepped out.  They slowly walked to the front door, and Nick used his
key to enter the bar in daylight.
     Nick led the way, and strolled over to the bar.  LaCroix sensed
someone in the place, and quietly investigated.  He peeked around the
corner, and saw them sitting there.  He entered the room, and stood
behind the bar; but in front of Nick to confront him.
     "Nicholas, you're early," LaCroix said.
     "Yeah, sorry; I need you to watch the place for about four days
or so."  Nick said.
     LaCroix gave Paul a quick glance then to Nick, "No problem,
what's the occasion?"
     "Molly and I with Paul and Carla, we're going to the mountains
for a while."  Nick told him.
     LaCroix cleared his throat, and pointed to the other end of the
bar, "May we talk?"
     Nick followed him to the other end; they whispered as Paul sat
patiently and waited.
     LaCroix scanned his eyes, "You have found true happiness?"
     "Yes I have; I love her," Nick said proudly.
     "Love; I see, and your night was…"  LaCroix inquired.
     Nick placed a big grin on his face, "Perfect,"
     "I see; I am truly happy for you Nicholas.  You have waited a
very long time for this.  All my best."  LaCroix said warmly.
     "Thanks, LaCroix, that means a lot to me."  Nick replied. 
     Nick lightly touched his forearm, and gave him a warm smile. 
He walked back to Paul, and tapped him, and said time to go.  They
quickly walked up, and out of the Raven with LaCroix's eyes watching
his every step.  They climbed in the car, and headed for the store.
     Meanwhile, back at the Raven, LaCroix paced behind the bar,
Scott entered the room, and took notice of his odd mood.
     "LaCroix, I'm ready," Scott said.
     No answer from LaCroix, and he walked up to him; he felt Nick
was there, and that was on his mind.
     "LaCroix; was Nicholas here."  Scott questioned.
     "Yes," LaCroix replied.
     "Is he all right?"  Scott asked.
     "He has a home, friends, a job and a soul-mate; he's content." 
LaCroix whispered.
     Scott felt a little confused, "That's okay, isn't it?"
     "Yes it is, let's go."  LaCroix sighed.
     LaCroix gave Scott some rags to clean the bar with, and LaCroix
quietly went to the back room to be alone.
     Back at the store, Nick and Paul were buying more pale pink
roses, and another bottle of wine.  They strolled up to the register,
paid for the things, and headed out to the car.  They climbed into
the car, and he started the engine.  He backed out, and headed for
Paul's place.  He parked out front, and put the car in park.
     "Good luck; I'll call and get the weekend booked."  Paul said.
     "Great," Nick agreed.
     "If we're not busy with our ladies, want to hang out tomorrow?"
Paul suggested.
     "Sure," Nick answered.
     "Great, call you later."  Paul replied.
     "Thanks," Nick said.
     Paul climbed out, and headed into the building for his place. 
Nick took the car out of park, and headed for home.  He pulled into
his spot, and stepped out.  He rode up to his loft, and opened the
door.  He placed the bags down on the couch, and took in a deep
breath.  He strolled into the kitchen grabbing a beer from the
fridge, and went back to the couch then collapsed.  He reached for
the remote, and turned the television on.
     Just as he relaxed into the couch, the phone rang.  He almost
spilt the beer, and reached up then grabbed the phone.
     "Knight," Nick announced.
     "Hi," Molly whispered.
     "Hi, miss you already," Nick said warmly.
     "Same here, I need to know if you have any food allergies." 
Molly inquired.
     Nick hesitated for the moment, "I don't think so, why?" 
     "Surprise," Molly insinuated.
     "I love surprises," Nick replied.
     Molly laughed slightly, "Okay, me too.  See you in a few."
     "Okay, love you."  Nick replied lovingly.
     "Love you too, bye."  Molly whispered.
     Nick hung up the phone with a boyish grin on his face, no
sooner did that, the phone rang once again.
     "Knight," Nick said.
     "It's all set man," Paul responded.
     "Great," Nick said happily.
     "Tomorrow, I need to get some hiking stuff, so we'll do that
and lunch."  Paul told him.
     "Okay," Nick agreed.
     Paul snickered over the phone, "Have fun later,"
     "Thanks," Nick whispered.
     Nick reached over turning the television off, and closed the
windows.  As he stood up, LaCroix walked in from the top of the
staircase.  Nick saw him, climbed the stairs to meet him, and walked
down to his room.
     "Something wrong?"  Nick asked.
     "No; I have something for you."  LaCroix implied.
     "Okay," Nick said, slightly puzzled.
     LaCroix reached into his pocket pulling out a card, and slowly
handed it to him.  Nick took it, and examined it.
     "What's this?"  Nick inquired.
     "A card," LaCroix answered.
     "Why?"  Nick asked.
     "I have been holding onto this for you and forgot about it.  I
have added you onto the credit card.  Its money I have put aside for
you.  Use it for anything you wish."  LaCroix told him.
     "But, I have…"  Nick started to refuse.
     "I know, it is a gift from me to you, please," LaCroix insisted.
     "Thank you," Nick said with a smile.
     "We are friends, family if you wish.  It is my job to make sure
you are secured for life."  LaCroix expressed strongly.
     "Thanks," Nick whispered.
     "You're not leaving are you?  I need you to stay."  Nick
pleaded; a little worried.
     "I will stay until you tell me to leave."  LaCroix suggested.
     Nick looked into his eyes, "Never, I need to clean up.  I'm
seeing Molly later before we leave."
     "She's become very important to you."  LaCroix inquired.
     "Natalie will always be in my heart, but yes, I love Molly,
very much."  Nick expressed his love.
     "I'm pleased to hear that."  LaCroix said with a slight grin.
     "Help yourself.  I'll see you on Sunday."  Nick replied.
     "I'll make some coffee."  LaCroix told him.
     "Great, be down in a few."  Nick said.
     Nick strolled down the hallway to his room.  LaCroix walked
over to the staircase, and sighed quietly with a grin.
     "My son, is in love," LaCroix whispered quietly.
     As LaCroix made the coffee, Nick was upstairs stripping down,
and walked into the bathroom then a few seconds later, a flush.  He
ran the shower, and carefully stepped in.  He really got all cleaned,
and revived.  He finished the touches to his hair, and turned the
water off.  He carefully stepped out, and completely dried off his
entire body.  He wrapped the towel around his waist, and walked into
his room.  He stopped at the closet pulling out his favorite purple
shirt then over to the dresser; grabbed the rest.  He stepped over to
the bed, and dropped the towel.  He proceeded to got dressed, and
groomed.  He stood in front of the mirror, and fixed his hair.  He
splashed on a touch of after-shave, and smiled.  He strolled out of
his room down the hallway, and strutted down the stairs to where
LaCroix was standing with his coffee.  Nick's coffee was waiting for
him on the counter.  LaCroix looked up, and took notice in Nick's
fancy look.
     "My, my," LaCroix said.
     "Thanks," Nick said with a grin.
     LaCroix picked up his mug and offered it to him, "Coffee,"
     Nick looked at his watch and took the mug, "A quick one, after
the weekend, I would like you to really meet her."
     "I see," LaCroix said; feeling the seriousness
     "I want you two to know each other, you'll like her."  Nick
implied.
     "All right, let me know, and I'll make sure I'm here."  LaCroix
said.
     "Great," Nick agreed.
     Nick looked at his watch, and placed the mug down, "Got to go,"
     Nick walked over to the couch, grabbed his two bags, and looked
to LaCroix.  LaCroix had noticed a red box in the bag.
     "What's that?"  LaCroix inquired.
     LaCroix walked over to see the box.  Nick pulled the box out,
and opened it to show him.
     "It's a crystal heart necklace for Molly."  Nick explained.
     "It's lovely," LaCroix commented.
     "Thanks, see you later."  Nick replied softly.
     "Enjoy," LaCroix said.
     Nick walked to the elevator, and rode down to his car.  He
opened the door, and carefully stepped in.  He placed the bags onto
the passenger seat, and closed the door.  He started the engine
backing out of the spot, and headed for Molly's home.  Nick pulled
into the parking lot, and saw an empty space near the front door.  He
parked, and turned the engine off.  He picked up the bags, and
climbed out.  He locked the doors, and strolled up the path to the
door.  He opened the door, and strolled over to her front door.  He
stood there, and gently knocked upon it.  Molly opened the door
slowly, and Nick was stunned by the vision he saw.  A powdered-blue
silk dress with spaghetti straps, small diamond earrings, and a pale
pink lipstick.  With a soft hint of perfume, that sent Nick to smile
greatly.  Upon her feet, white sandals.
     "Beautiful," Nick whispered.
     Molly blushed, "Thanks come in,"
     "Okay," Nick said willingly.
     Nick strolled in, and stood a few feet from her.  He noticed
all the candles, and the table setting; he felt deeply touched.  As
he inhaled the warm scents from the candles; he just smiled, and felt
very comfortable.  Molly closed the door, and walked up to him all
smiles.  They kissed each other with warm greetings.
     "I'm glad you're here."  Molly expressed.
     Nick smiled, "So am I,"
     Nick placed the bags down, and pulled the things out to show
her, "Wine for dinner, and flowers for you."
     Molly took the flowers up to her delicate nose, and sniffed
them.  She smiled from the wonderful scent, "Thank you; I'll put
these in some water for the table."
     "Need help?" Nick offered.
     "No; I'm okay," Molly replied.
     Molly walked into the kitchen fixing the flowers, and placed
the wine into a silver bucket.  Molly moved over to the table where
Nick met her.
     "Molly, I have something for you," Nick expressed.
     "Really?" Molly said surprised.
     Nick pulled out the red box, and opened it then showed her the
necklace.  Molly was speechless, and amazed by the thought.
     "Nick, it's," Molly said stunned.
     "Do you like it?"  Nick asked.
     "It's beautiful," Molly answered.
     "Let's try it on," Nick suggested.
     Nick removed the necklace from the box gently wrapping it
around her neck, and locked it in place.  He kissed her on the neck. 
Nick stepped around front to gaze upon the necklace around her soft
neck.
     "Is it okay?"  Nick asked.
     "Yes, it's lovely, why?"  Molly inquired.
     Nick shrugged his shoulders; "I wanted to do something special
for you."
     Molly looked into his eyes, "Thank you; I love it."
     "It's prettier on you than in the box."  Nick replied.
     "Thank you, let's sit down and eat before it gets cold."  Molly
requested.
     "Okay," Nick said following her lead.
     Nick pulled her chair out, and she sat down.  He moved to his
chair, and politely sat down.  Molly removed the cover on the
platter, and to his surprise, a pork-loin dinner with all the
trimmings.  He picked up the bottle popping the cork, and poured it
into the glasses.  He picked up the knife, and sliced the roast.  He
inhaled the aroma with every slice.
     After about an hour or so of enjoying the dinner; they
finished, and Nick helped Molly take the dishes into the kitchen. 
Nick cleaned off the table, and Molly loaded up the dishwasher. 
After they cleared, and cleaned the table, Nick grabbed the bottle,
she grabbed the glasses; they walked into the living room then made
themselves comfortable, and cozy on the couch.  Molly reached for the
remote, and turned the television on to the classic western movie
they were waiting to see.
     About half way into the movie, Molly felt asleep in Nick's
arms, and he saw this.  Nick very carefully climbed from behind her,
gently picked her up, and carried her into the bedroom.  He gently
lowered her onto the bed grabbing the small blanket at the foot of
the bed, and covered her up.  He leaned over to her soft lips, and
kissed her warmly.  He slowly walked out of her room, and went back
to the couch.  He set the dishwasher too clean opening a drawer, and
found paper and a pen.  He placed it on the counter, and the note
went:
     
     Molly,
     The dinner was wonderful, and the movie was great; but the
company, as always, was perfect and beautiful.  Call me when you wake
up.
     Love, Nick
     
     Nick quietly left her apartment, and locked her door for
safety.  He strolled down to his car, and climbed in.  He started the
engine, and backed out.  He started for home, and thought about his
night with Molly.  He pulled into his parking spot, and turned the
engine off.  He stepped out, and rode up to his place.
     Nick opened the door, and it closed automatically behind him. 
He stumbled up the stairs, into his room, and walked into the
bathroom.  A few seconds, a flush then walked out to his dresser.  He
grabbed his nightclothes moved over to his bed, and changed for bed. 
He pulled the covers down, and set his alarm clock for Paul in the
morning.  He climbed in, snuggled under the covers, and slowly
drifted off to sleep.
     The hours passed rather quickly the sun shining through the
blinds, and across his bed.  LaCroix strolled in, and saw him
sleeping very peacefully with a slight grin on his face.  As LaCroix
stepped away; the phone rang.  Nick struggled to grab it.
     "Knight," Nick announced.
     "Morning," Molly whispered.
     "Molly," Nick said.
     "Nick," Molly replied.
     "Did you get my note?"  Nick asked.
     "Yes, and sorry about last night.  I hope you weren't
disappointed."  Molly inquired.
     "Never, I love you Molly.  Not just because we shared a special
moment."  Nick replied.
     "Same here and I'm glad.  I want more than the bed."  Molly
suggested.
     "Same here, let's discover that over the weekend."  Nick planned.
     "Perfect, I need to ask a favor of you."  Molly said.
     "Anything," Nick replied.
     "I went through all my camping stuff and my jacket is beyond
repair.  I will pay you back."  Molly said.
     Nick laughed slightly, "What size?"
     "Large, because I like them loose," Molly told him.
     "Okay, I will be out with Paul today.  I'll see you about five
o'clock in the morning."  Nick replied.
     "I can't wait, love you."  Molly said.
     "Me too, love you."  Nick replied.
     Nick hung up the phone, and rolled onto his back with a beaming
smile.  LaCroix entered the room, saw this grin, and smirked at him. 
Nick saw him just standing there staring at him.
     "Hey, LaCroix," Nick said happily.
     "Nicholas?" LaCroix replied.
     Nick sat up, and his faced him, "How's the Raven?"
     "Excellent," LaCroix answered.
     Nick turned, and stood up to face him with a big stretch to his
entire body.
     "I need stuff for camping, and leave at five o'clock in the
morning."  Nick expressed.
     "I see, I need some rest," LaCroix implied.
     "You okay?" Nick inquired.
     "Nicholas, I wish to express my gratitude for everything you
have done."  LaCroix said.
     Nick stepped up, and touched his upper arm, "We're family;
anytime.  Night LaCroix."
     "'Night, enjoy your trip."  LaCroix said, grinning.
     LaCroix strolled out of his room, and returned to his then
closed his door.
     Nick walked into the bathroom, and a few seconds, a flush then
the shower.  He turned the water off stepping out to dry off, and
wrapped the towel around himself.  He walked over to the dresser
pulling out some casual clothes, and stepped over to the bed then
prepared to get dressed.  He reached over to shut the alarm off
grabbing his things off the table, and put them into his pockets.  He
ran down the hallway, and down the stairs.  He walked over to the
door, and opened it.  He rode down the elevator to his car, and
climbed in.  He started the engine, and backed out.  He drove down
the street to the store, and pulled into the parking lot.
     Nick saw a spot carefully pulling in, and turned the engine
off.  He stepped out, and locked the doors.  He walked up to the
front door, and saw Paul waiting for him.
     "Hey," Nick said.
     "Buddy," Paul expressed.
     "Let's go, Molly called, she needs a new jacket."  Nick told him.
     "Cool," Paul replied.
     "Come on," Nick said eagerly.
     Nick pulled the cart while Paul pushed it.  They started at one
end to the other.  They arrived at the right corner of the store
where the jackets were.  Nick did not realize there were so many. 
Paul helped him look, and decide.
     "Did she say what color?"  Paul inquired.
     "No," Nick answered.
     Paul thought for the moment, "A nice neutral color is always
good."
     Nick started on one side; and Paul on the other.  Nick happened
to catch one where Paul was standing.
     "That one, with the green trim."  Nick said, pointing it out.
     "Okay, what size?"  Paul asked.
     "Large," Nick answered.
     "Hold on," Paul requested, "Got it, here you go."
     "Thanks," Nick replied.
     Nick placed the jacket into the cart; but noticed Paul snuck a
cart for himself, and saw two women's sweaters in it.
     "What's that?"  Nick asked.
     Paul looked at what he's pointing to, "Two sweaters for Carla,"
     "Sweaters?" Nick queried.
     Nick just shook his head, and Paul let out a slight laugh,
"Yeah, I know, we've only known our ladies a short time and we're
shopping for them already."  Paul said.
     "That's okay," Nick replied.
     "True, let's go; we need to pack up and get the girls in the
morning."  Paul suggested.
     Nick slightly turned with a grin, "That's the best part,"
     "True, come on, lunch time."  Paul agreed with a huge grin.
     "You're on," Nick also agreed.
     They quickly walked up to the register started unloading, and
paid for their things.  Both of their carts were loaded up, and they
carefully rolled them outside to their own car.  They each unloaded,
and placed the carts aside.
     "Where?"  Nick asked.
     "Joe's," Paul suggested.
     "See you there," Nick said.
     They climbed into their cars, and started the engines.  They
carefully backed out, and headed into traffic.  They slowly drove
down the street to Joe's place.  They each parked along the curb. 
Nick saw a free space by his car, and grabbed it.  He flagged Paul
down to his direction, and they sat down to rest.  A waiter came
along; they ordered their food, and two beers.
     "Okay, we have two cabins, one for you and Molly, and the other
for me, and Carla.  We pay when we arrive; she wants to explore our
relationship."  Paul said.
     "Molly too," Nick told him.
     "Carla's looking for permanent life-time one."  Paul replied.
     "Are you?"  Nick inquired.
     "Yeah, but," Paul said, a little hesitant.
     "Same here, nerves," Nick replied.
     "We've only known them a month."  Paul expressed.
     "We already took the major step."  Nick shared.
     Paul just sighed, "Was it just sex, or was it love?"
     "Love, we share a lot of the same things."  Nick answered
quietly.
     "She wants a life-time?" Paul inquired.
     "I'm not sure; it's been so long since I cared for someone." 
Nick replied.
     Paul knew his problem, "Natalie,"
     "What?"  Nick questioned softly.
     "She would want you to be happy.  You would not hurt her by
caring for another woman; honest."  Paul explained.
     Nick sighed, "Really, how did you know?"
     Paul snickered, "I had that same look with Carla."
     Nick just grinned and he was more at ease, "Thanks man,"
     "That's what friends are for."  Paul said with a smile.
     The waiter came over with their beers, and placed them onto the
table.  They raised their glasses making a silent toast to each
other, and to the ladies.
     Nick licked the beer from his lips, "True, where do you want to
meet so we don't get lost?"
     "Molly's?" Paul suggested.
     "Why?"  Nick questioned.
     "Are you taking her the jacket to her?"  Paul inquired.
     "Yeah," Nick said quietly.
     "Molly's," Paul snickered.
     "Funny," Nick said.
     "Well?"  Paul inquired.
     Nick hesitated for the moment, "True,"
     The waiter came with their food, and they dug in.  After about
an hour of eating, enjoying small talk; they finished, placed their
money onto the table, and gave each other a handshake then went their
separate ways.  Nick climbed into his car starting the engine, and
pulled away from the curb then headed for Molly's.
     Nick pulled into the parking lot, and saw an empty spot near
the front door.  He parked the car, and turned the engine off.  He
reached in the back pulling her jacket, and climbed out of the car. 
He slowly walked up the path, and opened the door.  He strolled down
to her front door gently knocking on the door, and waited patiently. 
Molly answered the door wearing a T-shirt, and a pair of sweat pants
with paint stains on them.  She had a pair of white tube socks on her
feet.  Nick just snickered slightly, but tried to stop.
     "I love this outfit the best; it's the real you."  Nick said,
jokingly.
     Molly gave him an odd look, "Very funny; I was painting, come
in."
     Nick leaned down, and gave her a slight kiss on her cheek. 
Molly quickly closed the door, and walked up to him, "I found a
jacket, and I hope its okay,"
     "How much?" Molly asked.
     "Nothing," Nick answered.
     "Nick?" Molly said seriously.
     Nick felt he wouldn't win so he thought of a better way, "Buy
me dinner, okay,"
     "Deal," Molly agreed.
     Molly placed it upon the chair by the couch.
     Nick rubbed his hands together, "Where's the painting?"
     "Over here," Molly expressed; slightly nervous.
     Molly took him by the hand, and showed him the painting by the
window.  She had painted the mountains in a landscape form.
     "That's beautiful," Nick commented.
     "Thanks," Molly responded happily.
     "Paul's picking us up here.  If you want, my stuff is outside,
and I can sleep on the couch."  Nick suggested.
     "Okay," Molly agreed.
     Molly grinned from the idea of no pressure, "I'll get cleaned
up, and you can make some coffee."
     "Done," Nick agreed.
     Molly turned, and walked into her room.  Nick strolled into the
kitchen to set up the coffee maker.  He opened the cabinet doors
finding a tray, and the mugs.  He placed them onto the counter with
the pot of coffee, and strolled carefully into the living room.  He
placed the tray down sitting on the couch, and waited patiently for
Molly.  He turned the television on, and watched the weather for the
weekend.
     Molly walked into the living room, and saw the tray.  Molly had
the same clothes on; but cleaner.  She walked around the table, and
joined him on the couch.  Molly cuddled up next to him.  She turned
her head to face him, and stopped before he poured the coffee.
     "Nick, May I ask you a personal question?"  Molly requested,
"Maybe two,"
     "Anything," Nick replied.
     "Who's Natalie?"  Molly asked.
     Just as she finished the question, she saw his eyes building
with sadness.
     "She was a very special lady in my life," Nick explained. "We
were very close, and I loved her very much; I didn't with Natalie."
     "Where is she?"  Molly inquired.
     "She died some time ago."  Nick expressed sadly.
     Molly cleared her throat, "I'm sorry,"
     "It's okay; I've moved on, but I'll always remember her."  Nick
said.
     "You should," Molly replied.
     "The second?" Nick inquired.
     "Before her?"  Molly inquired.
     "No one," Nick said.
     "I was your first," Molly said, surprised.
     "First what?"  Nick replied, slightly confused.
     "First time you had; you know?"  Molly insinuated.
     "No, but it has been so long, I can't remember when."  Nick
said honestly, "First and last,"
     "Last?" Molly whispered.
     "Yeah," Nick said.
     "Are you serious?"  Molly implied.
     "Yes, does it scare you?"  Nick questioned.
     "A little, my last relationship was a very painful one."  Molly
expressed.
     "I'll do my best not to hurt you."  Nick said warmly.
     Nick took a break for the moment, and leaned over to pour
coffee for them, so they could continue discovering the newfound
love.  They both sat back, and sipped their coffee.
     "That's very honest of you, and I do trust you."  Molly said
quietly.
     "Same here, if it goes too fast, speak up."  Nick insisted.
     "All honesty; no lies."  Molly requested.
     "Yeah, anything else?" Nick inquired.
     "Not only do we share time together, but we also have alone
time."  Molly requested.
     "Agreed, oh, thanks for the rose, and the note; I loved it." 
Nick implied smiling.
     "It was okay?" Molly replied.
     "Perfect," Nick said grinning.
     "Tell me more about LaCroix."  Molly requested.
     "He's family, the only family I have.  He's my cousin, and best
friend.  He owns the Raven downtown.  I'll take you there some time."
Nick expressed fondly.
     "Great," Molly agreed.
     Molly tilted her head, and noticed the clock, "It's getting
really late, and we should get some rest.  We leave in the morning."
     "Okay; I'll be out here if you need anything."  Nick told her.
     "Okay," Molly replied.
     Molly slowly stood up leaning over, and kissed him warmly upon
his soft lips.  Nick smiled as she slowly walked out of the living
room, and stood in the doorway of her bedroom.  She suddenly stopped,
and turned then looked down at Nick on the couch.
     "Nick," Molly called to him.
     "Yeah," Nick answered, and stood up to face her at the edge of
the hallway, "You need something?"
     "Yeah," Molly replied.
     Nick took a few steps closer to her, "What?"
     Molly stepped up, and wrapped her arms around him, "You,"
     Nick carefully reached down, and gently carried her into the
bedroom.  Nick closed the door with his foot, and they shared the
night together in her bedroom.
     The warm nightly hours passed, the sun shined through the
window, and danced upon the bed.  They were under the covers, and
held each other very tightly.  Suddenly, the alarm went off; Molly
woke up first, and turned it off.  She looked to Nick who was still
sleeping.  Molly leaned up, kissed his lips very gently, and he
slowly woke up.  She gave him a slight chest rub, and he smiled at
her.
     "Time to get up?" Nick inquired.
     "Mountain time," Molly answered.
     "I can't wait," Nick said warmly.
     They both climbed out of the bed strolling into the bathroom,
and into the shower.  Nick stepped out, and turned to Molly with a
grin.
     "You finish up, and I'll cook some breakfast."  Nick suggested.
     "Deal," Molly grinned.
     Nick closed the shower door, and dried off.  He wrapped the
towel around himself, and strolled down to the kitchen.  As he
prepared to make the coffee, a knock came from on the door.  He
looked at towel stepping over to the door, and looked through the
peephole; it was Paul.  He opened the door, and Paul laughed loudly
with Carla behind him.  Nick was slightly red; but managed to keep
control.
     "Love it," Paul said.
     "Stop, get my clothes.  There in the red bag in the back seat."
Nick said.
     "Cool, Carla; wait here."  Paul requested.
     "Hi Carla, come in."  Nick said politely.
     Carla leaned over to his ear, "Don't feel bad, he went outside
in a towel to get his."
     "Great, we're even; have a seat."  Nick laughed slightly.
     Paul ran outside to his car, and opened the door.  He reached
in for the bag and closed the door.  He ran back inside, and up to
Molly's apartment.  He turned the knob, and opened the door.  When he
closed it, he saw them on the couch enjoying coffee.  Paul looked at
them; and knew.
     "You told him," Paul sighed.
     "Fairs fair," Carla said.
     Suddenly, a voice from the back room, "NICK!"  Molly shouted
from her bedroom.
     "Okay," Nick answered; he stood up, and grabbed the bag,
"Excuse me,"
     "No worries," Paul implied.
     Nick walked down the hall; and into the bedroom with Molly.
     "How do I look?"  Molly inquired.
     "Excellent," Nick said with a slight whistle.
     Nick stepped over to the bed, and proceeded to get dressed. 
They both walked out, and into the living room.  They searched
Molly's place to make sure it was secure; they grabbed their things,
and left the apartment.  They walked to their own car, and climbed
in.  They each started their engines, and Paul led the way with Nick
closely behind.  They rode the highways, tunnels, and rode to the
clouds dancing upon the mountains.  It was a beautiful, sunny day for
them to enjoy a peaceful, and learning vacation for each couple;
mainly Nick.