Shadow Dancer Sequel Like Father Like Son By StormyNite Written in September 1999 Part 1 The hall was almost empty. The sound of their voices echoed throughout the building sounding louder than they actually were. Eric pushed her out in a dancer's lunge, then pulled back a little too hard. Tanya slipped and landed on her backside unceremoniously. She stood up fuming. "You did that on purpose, Eric!" She screamed as she got to her feet. He slapped her hard, knocking her back down onto the floor, then kicked her in the thigh. "You...You are pathetic!" He growled through clenched teeth. "You call yourself a dancer." He kicked her foot with his in frustration. "I've seen cows who dance better than you. Get out of my sight!" His lithe form shook with rage as he raised his arm in anger getting ready to strike her again. "Enough!" Tom Flarrety's voice echoed across the room as he stepped into the light. Tanya cowered on the floor, but soon regained her backbone with someone else in the room. She stood up slowly, rubbing her thigh where he'd kicked her. She eyed Tom crossing the room and smirked, knowing who now had the advantage. Slowly, she walked to Eric's side. "This isn't over, Eric. I will be your partner for the finals or I make one phone call to your mother." She raised one eyebrow and dared him to challenge her now. Anger flooded his features and he started to slap her. Tom caught his hand in mid-air and tossed the young man across the floor like he was a rag doll. "Grow up, Eric. Everyone makes a mistake...even you." Tom walked over to the young man on the floor and glared at him filled with disgust and loathing. "You may be able to get away with that kind of crap elsewhere because of your daddy's money...but NOT HERE! Here we treat women with dignity and as equals. Here the competition is not fixed and money doesn't get you to the finals, so I suggest you work WITH your partner instead of against her." Tom turned back to Tanya and checked her over visually. "Are you okay, Tanya?" She nodded her head affirmatively, then scurried for the door without another word. Tom turned his anger back on Eric. "If I see you raise another finger to her or anyone else in this competition, I'll have you arrested and thrown in jail." He walked over and knelt down to the young hothead, so he met him eye to eye. "They say jail is not very kind to pretty boys and Daddy won't be there. Think about it, Eric, BEFORE you do anything really stupid." Tom rose gracefully then walked to the wall and turned out the lights in the hall leaving it in darkness filled with entirely too much anger. --------------------- Nat tried hard to calm her stomach. When she sliced open the cadaver and the smell of bile flooded the room, she lost all hope and fled to the sink to vomit repeatedly. Grace threw a sheet over the body, stripped off her gloves and walked slowly to her side. "You have something to tell me, girlfriend?" Grace wet a towel and rubbed it over Natalie's damp forehead patiently like a mother tending to a sick child. "Just a little queasy tonight, Grace. Must be a bug or something I ate." Nat started to rise slowly only to feel the nausea return and cause her to lose the final contents of her stomach until she began to dry heave. "Come on, Nat. Let me get you some crackers and a little soda. It should calm it down a bit." Grace smiled as she headed for the back room and the small refrigerator there. She pulled a non-caffinated soda and a few crackers from the shelf and returned. Nat stood gripping the sink in a death grip as another wave of nausea swept over her. "Good Lord, Child. I haven't seen anyone this ill with morning sickness in years." She handed the soda to Natalie and watched her sip it slowly, then take a deep breath. "Have you told Nick yet?" Grace waited patiently and watched her friend closely. She saw the tears form in her eyes and slip silently down her face. She knew the answer instantly as a sob tore from Natalie's lips and she gave into the fear. "I...we...I'm so scared...." Another sob tore from within her as she grasped the reality of what Grace was saying. She'd been queasy for days, but wrote it off to nerves, stress, and overwork. She'd finally made the final step and brought Sydney to Nick's loft. They were officially living together. Her lease was up at the end of the month and she wasn't renewing it. **************flashback************* She'd laid the lease papers on her kitchen table when she'd stopped to pick up her mail and feed Sydney. When she returned, he tore them up in front of her. "Get Sydney's things, Nat" She stared at him in awe. "What are you saying, Nick?" She whispered as she watched him closely. In one stride he was at her side and pulled her into his arms. "I'm saying I don't want to ever wake up without you beside me. I'm tired of pretending at the precinct that we're just friends still working on something better. I love you! I want a chance for us to figure out if this can work full time without me hurting you. I swear if I think there's the slightest chance, I'll leave." He touched her face gently and caressed her petal soft skin and watched the myriad of emotions play across her features. "I know what I'm asking of you and you have to know the risks. Playing house with a full fledged vampire is usually fatal and I'm being selfish as Hell. I'll understand if you say no, but I don't want to go on like this...." Her lips found his and silenced him. "I thought you'd never ask." She whispered against his sweet lips when she broke the kiss, then smiled. A radiant smile graced his face and he picked her up. She laughed as he twirled them both in a circle, then he frowned and set her down on the floor. "What?" She asked breathlessly. "LaCroix...the Enforcers...." He stared at her in fear. She wrapped her arms around his waist, then pulled him close. "This isn't any different than what we've been doing, Nick. Nothing has changed except my mailing address. If they were going to do something, they would have by now." She reached up and pulled his lips to hers until he wrapped his arms around her and groaned into her mouth. His body was reacting to hers and she reveled in the feel of his hard tight body pressed against hers. Nothing that felt this right could be wrong. His hands roamed over her until she felt herself being laid on the couch. Minutes later they were both lost to the passion between them all else forgotten. *************End Flashback***************** "Just maybe you ought to break the news to him tonight. Most men like to know when they are going to become fathers." Grace beamed with pride. "You're going to make a great mother. It's in your eyes and your face. Once you get past these little problems, you're going to love it." She handed the cracker to Nat and watched the color in her face drain once more. "I see we are going to have to work on this though." End Part 1 Part 2 Johnson walked down the hall carrying his 4th cup of coffee. Miller walked by his side, all smiles. "I wish to Hell you'd wipe that stupid grin off your face. There are rumors all the time. There is no reason to think you are going to win the pool. I know that stupid thing is over $1000 right now, but it only pays if they get married. Living together doesn't count." Johnson glared at his friend. "Oh, come on Larry. You know as well as I that it's inevitable. The fact that they are living together makes it pretty obvious. Clarice down in records told me yesterday, Dr. Lambert changed her mailing address to Nick's and the following night Nick named her as beneficiary. That's good enough for me. The money is mine! I had the date Clarice put on the records as the day she changed address. You know as well as I, neither one of them are going to admit to anything or one of them will have to transfer." Miller smiled smugly at his partner. "Well, it's going to take iron clad proof before that kind of money changes hands. I have to admit though, Knight is a whole lot easier to work with so he must be getting some on a regular basis and the Doc looks prettier all the time. I always thought she was a knockout to begin with, but she almost glows now. She's different." Johnson thought for a minute. "If there had been one woman in the whole precinct worth chasing it was her. She's not only pretty on the outside, but inside as well. Knight's a lucky guy. The rest of us will just have to settle for Marissa and Eloise." He sighed heavily. "And you're complaining?" Miller snorted. "If all I want is a pretty package and to get laid, Marissa is fine. Eloise, too for that matter, but that's all it is. When a man gets to be our age, he wants more than just sex. At least I do. I want my woman to be sexy but I want passion and..." "Love...Sheesh, Mark, you're starting to sound like a woman. I for one will take all the free stuff Marissa wants to dole out. I don't even care that she shares her wares with others. The sex is good and I don't have to work for it. I still would like a little mystery once in a while, but hey I'll settle for easy right now. I'm saving myself for the Shadow Dancer. No woman that sexy will ever stay retired too long." Both men laughed and turned the corner into the squadroom. Marissa stopped a few feet behind them. At first she started to interrupt as she followed them down the hall, but they seemed so engrossed in their conversation, she thought she'd just eavesdrop a little. Now she wished she hadn't. That envied Knight for being with that mousy little coroner, Lambert. The rumors must be true. Knight and Lambert were living together. Anger washed over her and she tossed her half-empty coffee cup into the trash. This was unacceptable. ------------------ Nick flipped the second form into the out box with a sigh. Schanke groaned audibly as he pulled another pile of forms out of his drawer. "Explain it to me again, Nick. Just why it is we have to do at least 30 forms for every case we work on. This is just ridiculous." Schanke jumped up and started pacing the floor. Nick was somewhere else. Schanke looked at the paper Nick had dropped into the outbox and noticed it was only half filled out. "Come on, Nick!" He grabbed the form and tossed it back at Nick. "You've got to snap out of it man. I can't do this all by myself." Nick finally looked at the form and then Schanke. If he could have blushed he would have. "Sorry, Schank. I'm just a bit preoccupied." "A bit!" Schanke returned to his chair. "You are out in la-la land, partner. Not that I mind the fact that you're much easier to get along with, but your head's in the clouds. Or should I say your head's at the morgue. For all our sakes, Nick, just ask the woman to move in with you and get it out of your system. I need some help here." "I already did, Schank." Nick said calmly and Schanke's mouth dropped. Nick locked eyes with his partner. "It scares the Hell of me!" Indecision and something else was written in his eyes. Schanke stared at his blue eyed partner in awe. Nick had actually told him something about his personal life...first hand. Schanke smiled with the knowledge. "Why should you be any different than the rest of us, Nick. I've been married for eons and Myra still scares the willies out of me. Women are so unpredictable, so unreadable at times. You can't live with them and you can't live without them. If you weren't scared, I'd have you certified." Nick stared at his partner and appreciated the support, but knew what his real fear was based on. Natalie's face flashed in front of him and the memory of waking up with her in his arms tonight before he came to work made him smile. No he wasn't afraid of the relationship between them, he was afraid of losing her to his baser needs or LaCroix. They were pushing the envelope now, walking a thin line as to what would push his master over the edge. Thinking about the reaction within the community, was not an easy thought either and the Enforcers may decide at any moment to change the rules. Nick sighed heavily and ran his hands through his hair in frustration. Can't live with her and can't live without her. That about summed it up. He was being selfish and knew it, but his heart just wouldn't go along with his head. They were playing with a loaded gun and it was just a matter of time before it went off. Nick stared at Schanke and tried to smile. He wished he could really tell Schank what was going on, but it was just too dangerous. "Thanks, Schank. I guess I needed a pep talk." Schanke walked over and slapped him on the back. "No sweat, partner." The phone rang beside them and Nick felt the fear wash over him like a cold blanket. "Nick?" Grace's voice seemed strained over the phone line. "Grace? What is it? Is Nat okay?" He couldn't feel any pain through the tenuous blood link and it was fading slowly since the episode in Dallas a few months before. Nick had refused to let Nat share his blood even though every fiber of his body screamed for the union. He continued to drink her blood after and during their making love, but not since that time had he let her share his. The risks were too high. "She's really sick, Nick. I think you need to get down here. You know how hard-headed she is." "On my way, Grace." He hung up the phone and grabbed his coat. "Book me off as sick, Schank. Nat's ill and I'm taking her home." He didn't wait for the response, just headed for the door. ----------------------- Performing Art Center: Downtown Schanke walked over to the Captain as she stood talking with Tom Flarrety. Amanda Cohen with her professional demeanor firmly in place introduced the two men. Detective Schanke, this is Tom Flarrety, director of the Performing Arts Complex. Tom is not only the owner of the establishment, but the director of the competition and a personal friend of mine. I want you to listen to what he has to say while I go read our little friend over there his rights." The Captain nodded to Eric standing in the corner surrounded by three uniformed policemen watching him closely. He seemed nervous and constantly looked at the door. "I think we'd better get him downtown, before he does something even more foolish." She walked calmly over to the corner. The two men shook hands and Schanke pulled out his notebook. "The two young ladies, Maureen and Sharon, said you'd broken something up between Eric Landhorse and Tanya Miller yesterday evening. They seemed to think you might have seen something worthwhile. Care to fill me in?" Schanke eyed Tom closely watching for any telltale signs of lying or deceit. "First, let me say detective I run a clean, tight ship here. Eric Landhorse and his father have been trying to rig this competition since they've gotten here. Eric's father is a multi- billionaire in the states and he makes no bones about being willing to fund our facility here for 10 years if we let his son win this competition. When I refused, Jason Landhorse tried throwing his weight around with the magistrate and the city elders along with a few barristers he had in his pocket here in the Province. That didn't work either and Junior over there finally got the drift he was going to have to win the old fashioned way with talent. Not that he isn't talented, but Tanya wasn't. When he realized she couldn't cut the ice, he tried dumping her but she had something on him. The next thing I know he's slapping her around. I pulled him off her last night. She said something to him I couldn't quite catch and split last night. Tanya was no angel either, but she didn't deserve to be beaten or this." Tom's eyes glanced at her covered body on the floor by the stage. "Were you here this evening while they were practicing?" "Earlier I was, but so were at least 10 other people. I heard the scream and by the time I got here, I saw Eric picking her up off the floor and heading for the door. I thought he'd just knocked her out, so I went after him. When he dropped her body I took off after him and tackled him before he hit the street. I didn't see him do it, but he did. Why else would he be trying to get rid of the body?" The anger was present in Tom's eyes as he spoke. He abhorred violence, especially involving women. "We'll need you to come down to the precinct and make a statement." Schanke offered his hand to Tom , then turned to rejoin the Captain. Cohen's angry eyes met Schanke's as he approached. "You know, Detective, people who have an abundance of money think they can get away with murder." She stared at Eric being escorted by the two uniforms out the door. "Make sure it doesn't happen, Detective. No one commits murder on my watch and gets away with it." "Right, Cap! I'll take care of it." Schanke stared at her petite backside and mumbled. "Where are you when I need you, Nick." ----------- Nick breezed through the door of the morgue, now feeling pain as well as fear. Grace had Natalie sitting on a stool by the sink with a wet rag on her forehead. She looked pale and frightened. Grace turned and smiled. "You take her home, Nick. She won't listen to me." Natalie's frightened blue eyes met Nick's and his heart lurched in his chest. "Nat?" He was at her side immediately. Grace slipped out the door to let them work it out alone. Mr. George's autopsy would have to wait for Fred when he came in. Nick scooped her up and headed for the back room. He closed the door with one foot and headed for the small cot in the corner Nat and Grace used for resting on long nights. The feel of his arms and the strength that was only Nick caused her to finally relax. She sighed and laid her head on his shoulder. He sat them both down, never once giving any indication he would let her go. He took the wet cloth and wiped her face, smoothing some of her auburn curls behind her ear. "You want to tell me what's going on?" He caressed her back and cuddled her in his arms. She raised tired eyes to his with a little hesitation. "I know we haven't talked much about..." She stopped and didn't quite know how to say it. She knew what was in his blood and he hers, but reality was a whole new picture. So many unknowns, so many possible complications and even she didn't know for sure if she could carry a child of Nick's to term. Fear overwhelmed her and he sensed it immediately. "Nat...Tell me what's wrong. You're scaring the Hell of me. Whatever it is, we'll figure it out together. Wasn't that what we promised each other?" He kissed her forehead then stared into her eyes and held his breath. Was she dying? How ill was she? They hadn't been totally intimate in over a week due to both of their work schedules and her fatigue. He was becoming concerned, but there was no sign of anything wrong in her blood. He reached back to a week ago in his perfect memory and let the passion and love he felt from her wash over him one more time. When he reached into the memory and pushed past the lust and passion, he felt something different. He tried to grasp it, but it faded with uncertainty. "Nat?" She caressed his face and marveled at the emotion playing across it. He was scared for her. He was right. They were in this together now. "How do you feel about being a father?" She whispered with her lips next to his. "What did you say?" He said shocked. Blurred emotion and images flooded his mind and he finally understood what he'd felt in her blood. Her mind didn't know she carried their child, but her body was trying to tell him. "I said, you're going to be a father." She watched the smile cross his face and flare into pure joy and she laughed. He kissed her feverently, then released her lips. "You're sure...I mean..." He stood them both up and set her feet on the floor gently. Reverently he placed his hand over her belly. "Our baby...I don't know what to say." He stared in awe at her still flat stomach. "My child, our child..." His eyes found hers. "Is this possible?" He said in disbelief, wanting it to be true more than anything, then he felt the fear. "No, Nat!" He realized instantly what she'd thought. "I love you and I will love our child. It's our child made in love, not bloodlust. I want more than anything to be a father." He kissed her lips softly. "It's not suppose to be possible. Vampires are supposed to be infertile." He stared into her eyes and the fear was still there. "I'm so scared, Nick." She whispered. "I...I...something isn't right. I'm not just sick, it's painful. My body craves something that I don't know what it is." The nausea struck again and the pain increased ten-fold this time. It was getting worse. Tears began streaming down her face. "I want our baby." She sobbed. "Tell me what to do." She doubled over in pain now. "Please, God!" She began to pray. "Don't let me lose our baby...please." Tears flowed freely down her face and it tore at Nick's heart as he held her in his arms as the nausea swept into convulsions. Finally, she collapsed in his arms. His body began to burn now as well. Heat, followed by flames filled with yearning washed over him. He gasped at the enormity of it. Was that what she felt? Her blood began to call to the vampire and finally he understood. Quickly he slashed his wrist with his fangs, then hers. Without hesitation he placed the bleeding wrists together and the pain between them began to fade. End Part 2 Part 3 Like Father Like Son By StormyNite As his blood mingled with hers, the pain began to cease and the nausea subsided. She stared into his now golden eyes. "The baby needs your blood?" She said in awe. When she realized what she said was true, another wave of fear washed over her. Quickly, he pulled her into his arms and tried to calm her, but the same doubt and fear coursed through his own veins. What would this do to her? She'd already changed from the small blood exchange in Texas and if the baby required his on a regular basis what would happen to Nat? She sobbed now as the risks of the baby became a reality. She could feel his fear through their blood link, but there was no doubt about his love. She pushed into that. It would have to be enough to see them through this. Finally she stopped crying and looked deep into his eyes. "I want our baby, Nick, and no matter what happens it is worth the risk." She touched his cheek and smiled sadly. As long as I know you love me, everything else will be okay." "Let's go home and let me show you how much I love you both." He stood up and offered her his hand, which she gladly accepted. -------------- "Well, tell me you got a confession out of him." Cohen stared intently at Schanke. "Not hardly, Cap. He's waiting for Daddy and the well-paid barrister to show up and bail him out. We can place him at the scene, his fingerprints are on the sword, he was apprehended trying to flee with the body. He did it, Captain. You know it and so do I, but he will walk with a good lawyer by tomorrow night unless he confesses and I don't think that's going to happen. The lawyer will say it's all circumstantial and the sword was a stage piece. I don't understand all this performance garbage anyway. Why is it so important for him to win? He doesn't need the money." Schanke shook his head in puzzlement. "It's the power. Performers are a different breed of animal, Detective. They thrive on attention and it gives them power. When they have the audience in their hand, it fills a hole inside them. It's an escape from reality that most of us can't ever achieve. On stage you can be anything you want to be and do anything you care to, then go home and be someone else entirely. Performing is like an addiction and you either feed it or go into rehab. Those that don't make it usually end up on drugs or something worse. If they're lucky, they survive to come back to reality but it's a rush most people couldn't say no to." "That sounds like personal experience, Captain." Schanke stared in disbelief. "I'll admit it, Detective. I took a spin at the bright lights, but I found reality. There are other things in life just as powerful as the addiction to the stage. I filled my need and moved on. Some never do." Amanda Cohen reached into her drawer and pulled out a picture of her in full costume on stage. She had been a member of the chorus line and the glow in her eyes matched the happiness on her face. She loved what she was doing and it showed. She handed it to Schanke. "We all have hidden lives, Detective. Some of us just have darker secrets than others. Find out what our young Mr. Landhorse has in his closet and we'll have all the proof we need to lock him away. Schanke stared at the picture. The Captain had great legs when she was younger and a body to match. "I had no idea, Cap." He handed the picture back to her. "I'll start digging tonight. Maybe we'll get Nick to take a crack at him. He gets people to open up easier than anyone I've ever met. Maybe we need to put someone undercover to find out a few of the inner workings and get a few people to open up." "I'll talk with Tom. Go home and get some rest, Detective. It is going to be a long night." ----------------- Nick and Nat had just opened the door to the loft when both their phones rang. They groaned in unison and pulled out the annoying machines from pockets in their coats. "I'm technically off sick," Nat said sadly "but if Grace's is calling, it must be important." Both of them resigned themselves to the obvious and flipped open their phones. Within 10 minutes Natalie was on her way back to the morgue and Nick had linked into the online police computer. They could hold young Landhorse for only another 12 hours without charging him. Nick and Schanke had until then to find anything that would tie it all together with the current evidence to make an indictment stick. --------------- "I'm really sorry, Nat." Grace said apologetically. I told them you went home ill, but the Captain refused to have anybody else work on the girl. "Are you feeling better?" Grace stared at her worried. "I'm better, Grace. Thanks. I just needed the right medicine." Nat smiled and her whole face glowed. "I take it Nick liked the idea of being a father." Grace smiled relieved. They belonged together. Everyone knew it. They were just so secretive about their personal lives. Nat smiled and picked up her scalpel. "Let's get to work. This pregnant woman needs her rest and I can't get it here." Natalie pulled off the sheet and started to work. ---------------- Jason Landhorse walked through the precinct as if he owned it. The look on his face was not of anger but arrogance to those he felt were beneath him. Clarence Wolfbane was the recommended barrister up here and he had been impressed so far. Jason's own attorney had personally recommended Clarence and that was good enough for him. Captain Cohen met them at her office door. Tom Flarrety stood in the corner of the room. He excused himself and exited soon after Jason and Clarence entered the room. Only ten minutes later, Clarence headed for processing with Eric's release papers. Amanda Cohen hid her anger until both men disappeared. Jason was escorted to holding to claim his son. Schanke cringed when he saw the Captain glance his way. "Schanke...in my office...NOW!" Controlled anger radiated throughout the room and all conversation stopped. Schanke walked through the door and left it open, hoping Nick would show up soon and help him out with something worthwhile. "I realize none of this is your fault, Detective, but I'm not going to let that pompous blow hard with his expensive lawyer manipulate the system so Junior gets away with murder. He killed that girl and it's up to you to prove it...and if you can't do that, then you are going to have to catch him in the act. I want a person undercover at the competition. So give me some options here. We need someone who can make this little slime take a stab at them. Someone who will make him feel threatened and try to murder again to gain the advantage." Cohen eyed Schanke closely and waited. "I can do it, Captain." Marissa's soft velvet voice floated across the room. She walked in and shut the door behind her. "I'm a dancer, Captain. I can go undercover and keep an eye out for anything amiss. If I could convince him I'm the right partner, I would be able to keep a close eye on anything suspicious." Amanda Cohen eyed Marissa closely. She had the look and the shape for it. If only she had talent enough to pull it off. Men found her sexy and she was good at her job, but as a active street cop, she had her doubts. "Can you really dance, Marissa. It's not just dancing. It's a performance. You are going to have to convince this guy you are his equal and can defeat any competition. Just being there isn't going to be enough. He's too smart for that and Daddy is going to be keeping a close eye on him for the next few days. Your experience in the field is limited. You would have to have an experienced officer with you to cover for that. I don't want you getting killed." "Captain, I didn't want to mention this, but since it's just us." She stared at Schanke and then the Captain. "I'm the dancer who was dancing at the Hidden Box they called the Shadow Dancer." "What?" Schanke squeaked in surprise, spewing the coffee he'd been about to swallow out of his mouth. "I know I owe you my life, Detective, and Nick too and I want to do this. You both risked so much for me the last time and I want to repay you. I haven't said anything until now because it was a bit awkward. I hope you forgive me. " Marissa walked over seductively and ran a finger down Schanke's jacket lapel. Schanke grabbed her hand and stopped the motion. "Try again, Marissa. I know I look like a fat Italian boy who just fell off the turnip truck, but there is no way you are the Shadow Dancer. You forget I've seen the woman, watched her move, dance and saved her life. And for your information, Miss Shadow only comes to here on me." Schanke held his hand in the middle of his nose. "She can't even look me eye to eye. So unless you've grown since we've gotten back from Texas...." "Enough!" Cohen interrupted. "She has the right look and maybe it will work. We've got nothing to lose at this point. I will have to assign someone to you they haven't seen." "They haven't seen Nick." Marissa pointed out. "He's also got the right moves. He could be a stage hand or something and be close." She wanted Nick to see her fully at her best form. This was the answer." She smiled smugly as she watched the anger flash in Schanke's eyes. It was her turn to show them all who was really sexy in this precinct. Nick would be going home with her...not that mousy little coroner. Soon he would know what real sex felt like. The look of conquest was written on her face. "I shall talk with him and Tom tonight. You go over to the arena and check in. Show Tom what you can do. If he says you can compete, it's a go." She sat down at her desk and picked up the phone. "Well, get to it. I don't want that little slime on the street any longer than necessary. Schanke, look into Daddy. He's not lily white either and there may be more than meets the eye with him as well. They are both from the same gene pool. Give me ammunition....both of you." She started to dial the phone and waved them out. --------- Schanke rolled his eyes, then burst out laughing. "What is so funny, Detective?" Marissa said angrily. "You'd do anything to get in Nick's pants and prove you're better than Natalie. You've bitten off more than you can chew, little girl. Trust me when I say Nick is no picnic to work with. If you piss him off...don't forget what his nickname is. He earned the name Knightmare by throwing a guy through a wall, and sweet little Natalie will cut you up and spit you out in little pieces if you make her mad. You haven't got a chance." Schanke smiled and headed for his desk. ----------------- Natalie had finished the report on Tanya and had it in her hand. She was exhausted, but she'd managed to shower and change in the locker room before delivering the report. She just needed to run by lock up and get the keys from Derek before she headed for the loft. He'd driven the body back this morning in the coroner's wagon and forgotten to dump off the keys. As acting ME on call she was still responsible. As she slipped on the black suit jacket and buttoned the double-breasted inner button, she decided to add a red silk blouse underneath. At least she'd look nice when she returned home. Those days would soon be short lived and her flat stomach would be gone. She admired herself in the mirror and the brass buttons on the black on black suit made her looks 20lbs thinner. The bright red silk underneath the jacket peaked out just enough to add color and not detract from the neckline. She clipped on gold earrings that sparkled in the light out from under her auburn curls. Slowly, she ran her hand over her flat stomach. Not much longer and the sexy lingerie would be history. A wave of doubt rushed through her. Would Nick see her as sexy when she looked like a whale with their child? Would he yearn for the beauty of another woman or vampire for that matter with their perfect bodies, and perfect skin? She took a deep breath and pushed the doubt back into its secret place and reached for the love inside her. One last time, she rubbed her stomach and pushed into the tiny link forming between mother and child. Sexy would just have to wait for 9 months. Satisfied, she headed to lock up. ------------- Jason flipped the imaginary lint off his $2000 jacket as he waited for Eric to be released. This was shear stupidity on his son's part. Well, it was apparent that he would have to show him once again why the rules didn't apply to them. Wealth had its advantages. Eric walked slowly out of the lock up and groaned softly when he saw his father waiting. Of course he knew it was just a matter of time, but still he didn't want to hear the lecture. Then again, maybe this time he could get rid of him once and for all. He put on his haughty face and approached. "Well, Dad, I see you managed to find the right lawyer even up here." Eric leaned over and signed for his belongings. Jason grabbed his son by the collar and jerked him away from the guard who was signing him out. "Shut up, you little whelp. How many times have I told you that little trash you play around with will cost you. You are lucky this time, but they aren't through yet." "Oh, that's rich, Dad. You're lecturing ME on women." Eric glared into his father's face filled with hatred. "Like father, like son...just remember you taught me everything I know, Daddy!" Eric turned to walk away. "Don't push me, Eric! Next time, my money won't be there." "Don't threaten me, Dad. Just remember who you are talking to." Eric pushed open the door and walked out into the night. Natalie stood at the inner door and listened to the exchange. So this was the famous Jason Landhorse and son. They made an interesting pair. The question was who was more guilty...father or son. Natalie really didn't think it mattered. Finally, she walked over to Derek. "Hi, Dr. Lambert." Derek beamed. "I guess you came for your keys." His smile was genuine, even though he kept an eye on the older gentleman glaring at the door where his son disappeared. "Thanks, Derek." Nat turned to head for the parking lot. Jason counted to 30 before he took another breath. He would have to teach him a lesson again. He pushed the anger back behind the cold wall where he kept it for emergencies. Finally, he turned to stare at the beautiful woman exchanging comments with the guard behind the desk. She turned and met him face to face and his breath caught. She was absolutely breathtaking. The black suit with a touch of red-silk was both professional and sexy. The glow to her skin and the riotous auburn hair gave him pause. The perfect woman. He would have her. End part 3. Part 4 Adult Like Father Like Son By StormyNite Tom Flarrety walked into the office. Schanke and Nick sat in the chairs opposite Captain Cohen's desk. Nick's day-long search on Jason and Eric Landhorse had been fruitful. Apparently Eric was known for his temper and arrested on several occasion for beating his partners and girlfriends. Each time the charges were miraculously dropped after the woman refused to sign the complaint. Nick found two unsolved murders involving performers in Los Angeles and Miami. Both times, Eric Landhorse had competed. Insufficient evidence and the disappearance of several eye witnesses led to the dismissal of all charges. Daddy's money at work once more. The young man was out of control and Dad was bailing him out. "Well, Tom, how was she?" Amanda Cohen eyed her friend closely. "She's not good enough, Amanda. Don't get me wrong. She can dance but there's nothing spectacular about her. Eric is good enough by himself to win the competition as it stands. All he needs is a pretty body that has some rhythm. If she turns on the charm and makes him feel sexy, she'll get the job, but it won't push him over the edge to do something foolish. He needs competition to make him nervous. Someone to make him feel threatened. Marissa isn't it. She's another Tanya and he'll discard her when he's done, only more carefully this time. It will give you an inside person, but I think he's too smart for that. What you need is the real Shadow Dancer." Tom smiled as he remembered the night he saw her dance in Texas. "I saw her only once and believe me, when I say she would push him over the edge. Schanke watched Nick grip the arm of the chair and almost pull it free. He knew exactly where Nick's thoughts were and having Nat dance as a target once more was not going to happen. "Captain, Miss Shadow retired. I don't think we should even...." "Ask her, Detective." Amanda Cohen stared at Nick, knowing full well he had access to the woman. Her identity had been well concealed, but if she were guessing, Nick Knight had intimate knowledge of the Shadow Dancer and her mailing address was the same as his. She'd watched them together at the annual police ball less than a month ago. Natalie had dancer's legs and the two of them together were flawless perfection in motion. It was hard not to notice. They were the most breathtaking couple on the dance floor. Marissa had fumed all night and failed miserably to catch Nick's eye. "Thank you, Tom. I'll get back to you if something can be arranged. Keep a spot open for us in the performance schedule Friday night." Amanda showed him to the door and returned to sit calmly behind the desk. She stared at Nick without a word and waited for him to respond. She could see the anger well masked behind his eyes as gold flecks appeared intermittently. He was a scary man when he let go of that temper. She didn't want to be around when that happened. He was also much better at the waiting game than she was. He never ceased to amaze her. What dark secret did Nick Knight hide so well? Whatever it was, she wasn't going to delve, since he was the best detective on the force. Other tactics might be required. "I know the Shadow Dancer is retired gentlemen, but we have a killer that's going to walk if we can't push him over the edge. That means he will kill again. We don't want that. We are here to catch killers, not let them go free. I'm well aware that you both know the identity of the Shadow Dancer and I'm asking you to at least discuss it with her. She may be our only chance to push Eric Landhorse over the edge." She turned to stare at Nick. "It will also give Miss Shadow a chance to prove who has the talent in the police division." Nick raised a skeptical eye and read between the lines. Anger washed over him, but he snuffed it quickly. This was not the time nor place. If he'd learned one thing over the past year with Natalie, he didn't make decisions for her. He rose quickly and headed for the door without a word. "Just ask her, Nick. I know you don't approve, but it's our only shot and you know it. Here we have control. Somewhere else we won't." Amanda Cohen's voice faded as Nick closed the door, then he let the anger overwhelm him. She knew, which meant others might suspect it as well. This put a whole new set of problems in their lap. Schanke sat staring at the door. "He won't ask her, Cap." Schanke turned back to his Captain. "I'm not sure we have..." "The right to ask Natalie to risk her life?" Amanda Cohen finished the sentence and watched Schanke's mouth drop. "I was a dancer, Detective. Remember?" When you see Nick and Natalie on the dance floor together they are unique. I read all the reports on the Shadow Dancer and Reese's problems with Nick. Of course, I'm the only one privy to his reports, but it didn't take long to put it together. A big part of me understands why Natalie did it in the first place. A woman needs to feel sexy. We all know there's not anything sexy about surgical scrubs and lab coats. If he doesn't talk to her, I will. Remind him of that. It would be better coming from him." Cohen rose from her chair gracefully and walked to the window to stare out over the squad room. "We all have little secrets, Detective. Some of us can use them to save lives. Hopefully, Natalie will see it that way." ----------------- Natalie walked to the car and slid the key into the lock. She saw the shadow approach and turned to face him. Jason Landhorse stood less than three feet away. "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you, but I saw you in the building and I just wanted to introduce myself." He stepped forward and offered his hand. "I'm Jason Landhorse. You are a beautiful woman and I just felt compelled to tell you that and introduce myself." He let the diamond on his right hand glint in the sunshine as he turned on the charm. Natalie was stunned. He really expected her to fall for the line and be impressed. When she didn't return the gesture with his hand, he resorted to the hurt look. "I'm sorry. I was being a bit presumptuous and I shouldn't have been so bold." He adjusted his tie, making sure she saw the diamond and gold in his wristwatch. Every movement was meant to express wealth and he mastered all the actions. "I'm not impressed nor flattered, Mr. Landhorse. Good day to you, sir." She opened her door and slipped inside. He stood there speechless. She turned back to him unable to restrain herself. "Money doesn't impress some people, Mr. Landhorse and what would ever give you the idea that I would find a 60 year old, married man attractive? I suggest you stick to women your own age, or at least women who are willing to put up with you for money. I don't happen to be one. Better luck next time." She slammed the door and started the engine. Anger flushed his face at the audacity of the woman. No one...ever...turns down Jason Landhorse. He would make sure this woman paid for her remarks. He walked back in the building to find some answers. ----------- She was tired but not exhausted as she'd been the past week. It was Nick's blood. When she thought about him, her blood felt warm and her body tingled all over. She loved the feel of it. If she concentrated, she could feel Nick's presence all the way across town. The connection between them was back and the nausea and convulsions hadn't returned. She caressed her stomach as she drove home to the loft in the bright sunshine. She opened the windows and stuck her head out a little to let the wind blow through her hair. She would miss the sun but it was a small price to pay for a child and man who loved her as much as she loved him. She rode the lift up and reached out to Nick. He was still up and troubled. She stepped out to the sweet smell of coffee and a blazing fire. Obviously something was up. She tossed her jacket on the back of the couch and looked around the room. The sun was filtering through a small opening in the window and Nick stood in the shadows watching the sun rise higher into the sky. An empty bottle sat on the endtable along with a glass. She walked into the bright sunshine and let it kiss the auburn streaks of her hair, bringing it to life. Nick smiled sadly and she knew exactly what was going through his mind. She walked into the shadows and wrapped her arms around him without any doubts. "I wouldn't trade one night in the darkness with you, Nick, for an eternity in the sun." He buried his head in her hair and pulled her tightly into his arms. "Being with you makes me happy, Nick, not the sunshine." "You are so beautiful in the sun. I just hate to see you lose it." He stared into bright blue eyes that held only love without regret. "There are so many risks, so many unknowns and I'm terrified of you hating me for what you've lost." "I've lost nothing, Nick. Life is what you make it. If I become a vampire, then I'll have the best teacher. One who loves all of me and won't try to make me into something different to satisfy his own ego. You aren't LaCroix, Nick." She smiled and reached up to kiss his lips softly. "Besides, Grace says I almost glow. Do you think it's possible to look sexy when you're pregnant?" Slowly he ran his hand over her stomach possessively. "I think the mother of my child is the sexiest woman alive." His lips found hers gently at first. When she opened up to him, his tongue found every corner of her mouth as he molded her body tightly into his. The passion between them seemed to explode as his hands caressed, loved and fondled her. Their bodies melded together in a lover's embrace until a low groan escaped his lips. Lust overwhelmed him and she felt it immediately. His hard shaft rubbed against her thigh and she slowly ground her pelvis into his, wanting to feel every inch of his body. Each touch was a caress, each kiss an enticement and only one thing would ease the need within her. "If you don't make love to me, Nick Knight, I'm going to have to rape you right here, right now...sunshine or not." She panted between kisses as his fingers kneaded her breasts as his tongue and mouth worshipped hers. Swiftly he picked her up and flew them upstairs. She let her hands weave through his hair as his soft, cool lips kissed and suckled her neck. His hands were everywhere followed by his lips and she pushed into the feel of his hard body next to hers. Her blood was fast becoming a burning fire that only he could put out. Soft moans escaped her lips and she wanted nothing more than to drown inside him. His blood called to her making her ache with a desire she'd never known existed. Was this the vampire gene at work, the baby's need for Nick's blood or something more? At this point she didn't care. She gave up after the first button and tore his shirt open. Splaying her fingers across his chest, she let her fingers caress the hard planes she found underneath. Slowly, she let her finger drift downward over his hard stomach, kneading, caressing, touching until her lips had to follow. His erection was so hard in his tight jeans as her hands cupped his scrotum, he groaned with the first touch. "Take them off, Nick. I want to feel your naked body against mine." He pulled her blouse over her head and removed the silky bra in one motion and dipped his head toward the inviting globe. He suckled her breast gently until she screamed in frustration as the hard nub became sensitive to every slight movement of his tongue. His fangs had dropped and he nipped one tip and licked the precious fluid into his mouth. The connection was made once more and she cried out for fulfillment. She pulled his mouth away from her breast and brought it back to hers. They both were panting in need now as she pushed his shirt over his shoulder. Finally, he stepped back and removed his jeans and boxers. Natalie slid her slacks over her hips as her eyes locked with his. Each movement was an invitation to the other as the blood connection between began to burn. Warmth flooded her body as the need for him grew in proportion to hers. They were no longer two, but one since Nick had let her blood mix with his. She watched in fascination as the bright blue eyes of the man she loved turned golden with both hunger and need for her. She wondered if hers did the same. He growled and pulled her naked body against his. His cool hard shaft rubbed against her thigh and her body responded immediately. His hands cupped her firm buttocks and pulled her hard into his groin. She savored every minute and wanted more. She rocked against him bringing a groan of pleasure to his lips, as he grew even larger. She broke away from his lips to lick her way down the hard planes of his chest as he continued to grind their pelvises together. He tasted salty, but hot as she lapped the blood sweat on his chest into her mouth. Swiftly he pushed her down on their bed and covered her body with his. "Tell me I won't hurt the baby, Natalie." He panted in need of her as he rubbed his hard cock on her inner thigh. Need was laced in his voice and something far stronger. She reached down and guided him into her. Slowly at first, she opened to him until her own need became her guide and she pushed onto his hard cock taking him fully inside. She gasped in pleasure and he stopped. "Nat? Tell me I haven't hurt you." His ragged breath was laced with fear and she responded by grinding her pelvis into his. He moaned in pleasure as she rocked onto his hard cock once more. "Love us both, Nick." She found his lips and he needed no further encouragement. He stroked her slowly, letting her touch every inch of him, retreating almost to his full length, then plunging back into her. Each stroke took him deeper and he was lost to the feel of her. Her fingernails dug into his tight ass as he pulled out, then with each stroke, she would force him harder and deeper inside her. The fire between them burned brightly and they both needed the other to quench it. When the tip of his cock touched her cervix, she screamed in pleasure and began to contract around him. "Take me with you, Nat. Let me share it with you." His voice echoed in her ear as he ground his penis deep inside her. Every inch of his body screamed for release. He knew instantly when she fell into the abyss and sank his fangs deep within her neck. With the first taste of her blood his body responded. He pulled out and plunged back to explode within her and fall into the warmth and passion they both craved beyond all else. She screamed his name in release as his body joined with hers and the images floated between them. Lust, passion, desire all guided by love pulled them even closer together. He drank deeper and all that she was became one with his soul and he pushed into it. The darkness in his life was no more, filled with only the light that was Natalie and their child. Each beat of her heart gave him hope, each image was a treasure and his son touched his heart. He wanted more, but the beast was no more in control. He released her neck and cradled her in his arms as they both came back to reality. "I love you Natalie Lambert. I love our son and I want us to be together for eternity. Make an honest man out of me...marry me." He stared into her tired blue eyes and held her head gently in his hands as his body lay on top of hers still buried deep within her. A single tear escaped her eye and he brushed it away with his fingertips. It was followed by another and it tore his heart in two. He pulled her into his arms as the doubts he'd felt in her blood ripped him apart. She was terrified of him running away, of LaCroix using the baby against him, her need for him to find her sexy as she grew large with child, her own ability to survive if he left without her, how he would take it if she aged and he didn't. The images flooded his mind and he understood it all. He had similar fears. Would they ever be safe? Would their child live long enough to enjoy what life had to offer? Would she hate him after she became what he was? Could he live without her if she chose not to try? Then the images and love he felt from her and their son swam before his eyes. It was worth the risks and he knew it. For the first time in his life he was whole. That part of him he'd been searching for lay right in his arms and he couldn't let her go. "Push into what you feel from me, Nat. Let the images flow into your mind and you will finally know what and who I really am." He waited silently and let her push into their link. He held nothing back. She had to know it all, feel everything that was between them if they were to ever have a chance and he wanted that chance badly. Natalie took a deep breath and let the warmth she'd always felt from Nick caress her mind. Images flitted on the edge and she took a deep breath and pushed into them. He had doubts, but not about them. She could feel his fear for her safety and the child, his fear of her hating him for making her into this horrible monster that he saw himself. Fear of her walking away because she'd found someone else worthy of her love, then she felt his love. Such warmth, such passion based on what was in his heart took her breath away. He was hers body and soul if she would have him. He was ready to risk it all for them to be together. Great joy warmed her heart as the images continued to play in her mind and she saw their son through Nick's mind. Pure joy filled her soul. What they wanted was the same. What they felt was not one sided nor imaginary. She opened her eyes to see the fear in his. "I will love you forever, Nick Knight. I would be honored to make an honest man out of you." She smiled and pulled his lips back to hers. "Now what is it you're not telling me about The Shadow Dancer?" End Part 4 Part 5 Like Father, Like Son By StormyNite Written in 1999 Nick stared in disbelief. She'd just said yes to marrying him and she wanted to know about The Shadow Dancer. Women...he would never understand them. "Well?" She said softly as she gently slid her fingertips down his face in a tease. "I let you see all my doubts, but you still manage to hide what you don't want me to know. At least some of it." She bit his lower lip as he lay motionless on top of her still wondering how to explain why he didn't want her dancing as the Shadow Dancer again without sounding like an insecure fiancée'...but she was pregnant. How could she risk their child in a murder investigation by playing bait? He started to roll off her and she pulled him back. "Nope...you stay right here until I know the whole story. " He took a deep breath and sighed in resignation. "Marissa told Captain Cohen she was the Shadow Dancer and went over to the Performing Arts Theatre to try out as Eric Landhorse's partner. Tom Flarrety said she was good but not the Shadow Dancer. He thinks Marissa would not be enough to push Eric into being foolish. The Captain is furious and knows we can't make anything stick on Landhorse. It's all circumstantial and she's afraid the maniac will kill again." Nick thought for a moment and then continued on. "Honestly, I think she's right. He's done it before, but Daddy's money has gotten him off. He's not crazy, just self-centered and spoiled. He loses control of his temper and bad things happen. It would be different if it was an isolated incident, but it's not. The Captain wants to know if the Shadow Dancer will come out of retirement and compete. Maybe it will be enough to make him feel threatened and lose his temper." He stared into her blue eyes for a reaction and saw anger. "Nat, he's a killer. He's killed before and gotten away with it. You would willingly be bait again? Yes, we would be there, but there's always a risk...and you're pregnant. We don't know what he's really capable of if pushed to hard. What if you get sick again? What if...?" She placed her finger over his lips. The anger was gone and replaced with concern and understanding. "What if he kills again and we could have stopped him here? What if next time he branches out and decides to blow up a building with all the competitors in it? Anyone who kills out of loss of control or gain is mentally unstable, Nick. How could I live with it, knowing if I danced we might have caught him?" She kissed his lips softly. "I worry about the baby and if it's too dangerous, but our whole existence is a risk. This is what we do, Nick. We help people. We keep others from getting killed by taking maniacs off the street. I can't stop now because I'm pregnant." She looked into his eye for understanding. "Besides I need to feel sexy one more time and let me guess...." The anger sparked in her eyes once more. "Marissa wanted you close by as a guard to watch her dance, didn't she?" She waited already knowing the answer. "I was to be the watchman for the theatre while everyone was there." Nick smiled, knowing full well how much Marissa irritated Natalie. Frankly, he admired her for her control so for. "That's it! This mousy little coroner has had enough!" She started to push him off her, but Nick didn't budge. "Nat, you know no one believes she's the Shadow Dancer and I have never..." "She is a conniving, scheming slut. I am going to drop-kick her to another province and make her wish she had taken up knitting instead of chasing men. Better yet, I'll fix her up with LaCroix. They are perfect for each other." This time Nat succeeded in pushing him off her and stood in a huff, then paced the floor. Nick watched in fascination. Her uncombed auburn hair swirled around her naked shoulders and the fire in her eyes made her look almost wild. She turned to face Nick and oozed sensuality as she stalked back to the bed. She radiated sex and desire as she approached the bed and knelt down beside him on one knee. Slowly, she leaned over him and let her breast barely touch the fine hairs on his chest. He gasped at the sensation as her lips now hovered over his. "No more Miss Nice Girl! It's time someone showed our resident hooker just what sexy means." Her lips crushed his as her hands trailed slowly down his flat stomach stopping only inches from its intended target. She pulled her lips free and stared deep into his eyes as her hand slowly surrounded his now hardening cock. "Do you think I should practice first." He groaned in appreciation as her hand tightened on his stiff member when she stroked him slowly. She watched gold leap into his eyes and a growl escape his chest. She smiled wickedly. "Yes, I think practice is required. We wouldn't want any mistakes out there." Her lips crushed his and he flipped her over to show her the practice he had in mind. -------------------- Captain Cohen walked into her office and shut the door. Nick stood looking out the window. He was reliving the emotions, the passion, and the need in Natalie he felt earlier. She was so complex...yet simple. Her love of life, no matter whose, never stopped amazing him. She was so full of caring and warmth for everyone around her, yet the fire burned within her brighter than anyone he'd ever known. Caring and love was not a weakness as LaCroix had always preached to him, but a strength. It was what made her strong, and her strength and love had given him back his faith. He would honor that in the only way he knew possible. Amanda Cohen watched her star detective closely. There was such raw power in Nick. In those few moments he would let you watch him closely, you could feel it. The feeling that he was so much more than he seemed overwhelmed her once more. He was such a mystery. A man that could have been Captain or even more, yet he chose to do the grunt work, to deal with the death, the pain, the needs of everyone around him. Yes, Nick Knight was a great deal more than a pretty package. It was apparent he had talked with Natalie about Shadow Dancer. If the situations had been reversed could she have asked her husband to risk his life to save others? Would she risk losing the best thing to ever happen in her life because it was the right thing to do? She couldn't answer that. "I know this isn't easy for you, Nick." She stated a little harsher than she'd intended. Worried blue eyes turned to greet hers. "It wasn't MY choice, Captain. We made a promise to each other...no one-sided decisions. I won't back out on it now." The fear he'd felt earlier for Nat returned full force, but he pushed it back behind that famous mask of cold indifference. This was not the time. "The Shadow Dancer performs Friday night." He turned and headed for the squadroom. When he reached the door, he stopped and turned. "Natalie is pregnant, Captain...with our child." Acceptance was written on his face when he turned to bid her farewell. "Know that I WILL kill him if he touches her." He opened the door and walked out. ------------------ Natalie tossed her briefcase in the backseat of the car. Nick was going to have to add another garage door for her car. She'd been parking it in front for them both to have easier access. It was getting cold and she didn't relish the idea of scraping snow and ice off her windshield for another year. She shivered at the thought and a warm coat was tossed around her shoulders. She jerked back automatically and stepped away from the car. Jason Landhorse stood smiling beside her. "I thought you were cold." He said humbly but watched her with the eyes of a predator. Every motion caught her eye as she analyzed him closely. "Thank you, Mr. Landhorse, but I'm fine." She pulled the jacket off her shoulders and handed it back to him. He grabbed her wrist and refused to let it go, then slowly lowered his lips to kiss the back of her hand. "Anything that makes you happy, Natalie." He pulled his arm from behind his back and presented her with a dozen lovely pink roses. The scent wafted through the still night air making it seem alive. Taken by surprise, Natalie gasped, then recovered quickly. She tried to pull her hand free, but he refused to relinquish control. Anger flashed in her eyes and he tried to forcefully pull him towards her. A cold iron fist wrapped around Jason's wrist. A loud snap could be heard as cool white fingers crushed the warm flesh underneath and Jason's screamed. Pain shot up his arm and he finally released her. "Damn you!" Rage flooded the cold night air as Jason Landhorse turned to eliminate the intruder. He stopped cold in his tracks. Ice blue eyes filled with something evil stared back at him. His anger was replaced by fear and he stepped back automatically. "It would appear, the lady does not want your attention." LaCroix's smooth velvet voice floated between them. Natalie stared in shock as LaCroix stepped between her and Jason. Soon she stared at his tall broad back. Controlled anger assaulted her mind. It was not as strong as her connection to Nick, but it was there. LaCroix turned immediately and stared at her in confusion, then smiled evilly. Finally he turned back to the angry man in front of him. "Be wise and take your attentions elsewhere, foolish one." He took a step toward Landhorse and let the power within him surround, then crush the man to his knees. Jason clutched his throat, gasping for air in horror. What was this creature? Why was he around Natalie Lambert, MD? "I'm going to suggest you leave now before I get really angry. You will stay away from Dr. Lambert. She is under my protection and I take that very seriously." LaCroix leaned over and jerked Landhorse off the ground, then tossed him across the parking lot. "No one touches what is mine. Try to remember that next time or I might have to do something permanent." Jason Landhorse scrambled to his feet and ran as fast as his legs would carry him. With the threat gone, LaCroix turned back to his original quest. He turned to greet an angry woman instead of a grateful one. He analyzed her stance and listened carefully. He relaxed and pushed into the tiny link between them. She carried Nicholas blood. How was that possible for her heart still beat? Listening more closely he heard two heartbeats. Astonishment washed across his stoic features for only a brief second, but she caught it. It was not possible. "Yes, LaCroix, it's very possible." She stared at him unafraid. "You are not afraid of me, Doctor?" He brushed some imaginary lint off his perfect black suit. "That is not usually wise." He raised one eye in doubt of her stupidity. "And what makes you think you can read my mind?" "I don't have to read your mind to know you feel me. I carry a part of Nick and you can sense it. I may not understand it, but I accept the fact you and Nick are blood linked just as he and I are. I understand enough to know that I'm now part of your family and that has its faults...and advantages." She stared at Jason still running down the street, now 2 blocks away. She turned back to LaCroix. "To say that I'm not afraid of you would be sheer stupidity, but I know enough about human nature to know that you love Nick." She walked over and stood only inches from him. "You wouldn't have spent 800 years trying to make him stay by your side if you didn't. You also know that if you kill me, you kill his son. What would YOU do if someone killed, Nick?" She waited only inches away from him. If he was to lose control and she pushed him too far, she was dead, but she had to know. She had to know what he was going to do about the baby, now...not later. With each step, her heartbeat beckoned to him. The closer she came, the words that she spoke only confirmed what his senses already told him. All logic, all history, all the centuries of understanding just exactly what he was and what he wanted was just tossed in his face. How could this little mortal understand anything about him, about his relationship with Nicholas? It wasn't possible for her to carry a vampire child, yet here she stood. She had always been a thorn in his side, since the day Nicholas met her. For years he'd considered killing her to eliminate her influence upon his son, but what he felt from his son was so much more than anything he'd ever experienced. A part of him craved it for himself, the other part wanted to destroy it before it mushroomed into something he couldn't control...and that was unacceptable. He would bring Nicholas back to his side and maybe now the answer stood before him. Slowly he placed his hand over her flat abdomen. She flinched only slightly and it pleased him. He felt the small flutter of the child deeply embedded in her womb. For the first time, he saw fear in her eyes. Amazing...she feared for the child before herself. This was usable. He stared into her eyes and saw the fire return. She was such an enchanting creature. So unlike any other mortal he'd met. In time she would come to him. In time she would help bring Nicholas back to his side where he belonged. Maybe then, he might let her live. Maybe the child would be more receptive to his world than his father. Yes, there was potential here. It was as if she read his thoughts. "Don't even think it! I will kill you if you touch our child, LaCroix." He laughed in disbelief. Natalie stepped back, forcing her fear back into the place she'd kept it since finding out she carried Nick's child. She would use it, let it grow into something that would give her strength...not destroy her. She stared into lifeless eyes filled with audacity and self- importance. Everything was a game to him. Every move planned, but she was betting money, this was not planned. She could no longer feel him as she had before. It was not as strong, but it was still there. He was preventing it and that intrigued her more and gave room for doubt. "I'm glad you find it amusing, LaCroix." She turned and pulled open the car door. "Just remember one thing...I know where you sleep! And just so you know...I can feel you now even when you try to hide it." She smiled and sat down in the car. "You never answered the original question, LaCroix...but I already know the answer. Just remember your blood flows in Nick's veins." She smiled and started the engine. "Keep it in mind!" She placed the car in gear and drove off. End Part 5 Part 6 Like Father Like Son By StormyNite Song: Dangerous by Michael Jackson Eric twirled Marissa around the floor in one continual motion. Although they danced well together, the fluidity of years of practice was not there. This wasn't going to work. Eric stopped before his anger got the best of him. The competition was tonight and he needed an edge. Marissa was good enough in the Samba number to get them into the finals, but he would have to do something to overcome her deficiencies. He'd watched everyone perform their numbers. There would be only 4 couples to advance to the finals on Saturday and he could name them. "Eric, have you heard?" Lila sauntered across the room arrogantly. Finally, something to throw in the little bastard's face after turning her down for that little tart, Marissa. Lila glared at Marissa and put more hips into her walk than usual. Marissa snorted and headed for the side of the stage. "What now, Lila?" "There's a rumor the Shadow Dancer and her partner are performing on Friday night." She smiled wickedly. "I saw the final performance roster and there's a new entry. It is entitled 'Dangerous', with nothing else listed. Now who do you think would dance to Michael Jackson's number in our little group?" She couldn't stand herself and chuckled at the anger in Eric's eyes. "Should be fun, don't you think?" She turned to Marissa with a smug look on her face. "I understand you implied YOU were the Shadow Dancer. Guess the lady didn't want her reputation ruined." Lila laughed and headed for the door. There was justice in this world. Marissa fumed and searched the perimeter for Nick. He'd been there earlier and she'd been dancing just for him. He'd been in the balcony supposedly cleaning, then disappeared. He was around somewhere. He was too good a cop to let her out of his sights with a killer. She searched the room frantically, then saw him sweeping in the far corner of the stage area. He appeared busy, but she knew better. Eric kicked the chair in front of him and headed for the door. "Where are you going, Eric?" "To find out just exactly what kind of crap Lila is pulling now." He stormed out the door. Marissa walked calmly over to the side of the stage. "You want to explain to me just exactly what Lila was talking about. And don't play dumb with me. I know you heard everything that was said." Anger flashed in her eyes. He hadn't believed she was the Shadow Dancer either. Every costume she'd picked out, she'd done with him in mind. Every movement, every position she could control she maneuvered for Nick to see all her attributes. It was getting her nowhere. The frustration was beginning to take its toll. "Just do your job, Marissa, and we'll do ours. You'll be safe Friday night, but we need something to make Eric nervous. This is the answer." Nick kept looking at the back door waiting for Eric to return. "Are you trying to say you don't believe I'm the Shadow Dancer either?" She stared in disbelief. Nick raised one eyebrow and smiled. "I KNOW you're not the Shadow Dancer, Marissa. So just do your job." The door opened and Eric stormed back in. When she turned Nick was nowhere to be seen. -------------- Friday Night Performance The music had died down for the 9th time. Each number so far had received a standing ovation. The scores had been high, the sets creative and some of the numbers quite provocative. Eric and Marissa stood on the side awaiting the final entrant. Marissa scanned the audience and noted the number of non-uniform police in attendance. She stared in awe as she started seeing some of the faces from South, then the East Side. Metro was there in full attendance from what she could see. This was good...and bad. Now they would all see just how good she was. So far they had the competition beat hands down. They'd done a Latin number with tight costumes, lots of sensual movements and artistic footwork. It was the best performance she'd given in her lifetime. She'd seen Nick earlier in the back just before she went on stage, now she couldn't find him. The stage crew had spent 15 minutes setting this one up. All the contestants were anxious to see the performance, as it was a complete mystery to them all. Several had complained about the tardiness and the fact the number had not been practiced in this facility for others to compare. Tom Flarrety quietly handed them the rules once more, underlining a few passages about deadlines and practice sessions. The final entrant had met all that was required. The music began softly, slowly building as the gas jets kicked on around the stage. The room became silent as the stage began to fill with fog. With each stanza the music became a little louder and the fog thicker, then finally the strobes started to flicker. The lights then became more controlled and focused on the corner of the stage. A man sat in the shadows obviously drinking. He stood when a door slammed and his chair fell silently into the fog. On the far side of the stage, through the fog a door swung open. The way she came into the place I knew right then and there There was something different about this girl The lights flashed green, white, yellow and finally soft red as a woman stepped through the door. Her face was still in shadows as she effortlessly glided through the fog. Raven black curly hair below her shoulders moved in time to the music. Each step was timed to the beat, as well as every sway of the hip. She made the music one with her. The way she moved Her hair Her face Her lines were Divinity in motion. Each step she took closer to the front of the stage revealed more of the costume, but the fog and lights kept her face in the shadows. A long leather duster moved with a life of its own as she sensually moved toward the man standing by the table. Periodically she would stop, stretch high into an arch to accentuate her legs and step into a partial pivot turn. The motion drew attention to her figure and her rhythm. With each step, the lights caught the stones set in the 3-inch heels of her thigh high leather boots and revealed more of her long shapely legs. As she got closer, she twirled causing the fog on the stage to rise with her. Her jacket sailed high and she released it into the air. The strobes caught the stones stitched along the side of her hotpants. A woven leather lace top hugged her upper torso leaving large openings where her hot flesh could shine through. In her hand now appeared a long leather whip. As she stalked the room I could feel the aura of her presence Every head turned to feel the passion and lust Each step was choreographed to entice, each motion an invitation. She turned her back to the audience and displayed her tight leather clad derriere as she swayed in time to the beat. The lights caught the handcuffs attached to the back of her outfit. She began to move one hand slowly over her backside until she snapped them free with one hand and cracked the whip with the other. Her fingers caressed and enticed at the same time as each movement became circular and ended in front. The girl was persuasive The girl I could not trust The girl was bad The girl was dangerous She stalked him openly now with exaggerated shoulder movements and long leaps. He pushed the table away and you could see the tight material of his leather pants cling to every inch of him, hiding nothing. His hair was long and wavy and appeared to be blond under the lights in the fog, but it could have been brown without anyone knowing. He shook his head as in disbelief as he watched her, then he began to move toward the far side of the room to escape. Several beats into the music you heard the whip crack and he froze in place. I never knew But I was walking the line Come go with me I said I have no time Don't you pretend We didn't talk on the phone My baby cried She left me standing alone She was by his side now and pulled the leather whip around him like a caress, then with a quick graceful tug, she turned him to face her. The motion was fluid and sensual as his hands ended just below her breasts. She's so Dangerous The girl is so Dangerous She pushed his leather jacket off his shoulders as she let her breast rub provocatively down his chest. The men in the crowd groaned. Take away my money Throw away my time You can call me honey But you're no damn good for me She now pulled his jacket free and pivoted gracefully, letting her hair accentuate the motion. Her legs arched only slightly drawing attention to the perfect curve of her calves in the soft, tight leather boots. She finished behind him. Now her hands appeared on his chest as the fog swirled and the lights began to strobe intensely, building heat along with the motion of the dancers. They moved together in unison until they were in a side view to the audience. He arched into her as she caressed his body from behind until finally their bodies melded together as one. She came at me in sections With the eyes of desire I felt trapped Into her web of sin A touch, a kiss A whisper of love I was at the point of no return Slowly her hand progressed lower and wrapped his hands over hers. With emphasis from his hips he pushed them lower to the bulge in the front of his pants. She pulled back and he stepped away, but still held one hand. With the next beat he pulled her into a full turn until she was back in his arms. The music enveloped the room and he picked her up effortlessly, pushing her high in the air. The lights once more caught the stones in the heels of her boots and costume and shot fire into the rolling fog. Deep in the darkness of passion's insanity I felt taken by lust's strange inhumanity The bulge in his tight pants was now visible as her cleavage was displayed to the crowd while he balanced her on the flat of his hand and turned them gracefully. Still the light did not touch her face and her hair swayed to the beat of the music covering any recognizable features. Finally he let her now slide slowly down his hard body and the handcuffs clicked loudly into place. The girl was persuasive This girl I could not trust The girl was bad The girl was dangerous She stepped back and the handcuffs held them together, then he pulled her hard back into him using a tight spin that left his arm wrapped around her. She rubbed her breast against the silk shirt beneath her and growled into his ear. With each beat she caressed him with her wanton body and the fog grew thicker. Both dancers took great care in their presentation of form, yet kept their faces in shadow as the fog rolled around them and the lights throbbed in time to the music. Each movement was fluid, each angle and look complete. They painted a picture in the fog of pure lust. I never knew But I was living in vain She called my house You said you know my name And don't you pretend You never did me before With tears in her eyes My baby walked out the door. The door slammed loudly off stage and she laughed. She arched, displaying her cleavage to him openly. He tugged on the handcuff, then gave into her persuasion and caressed her tight ass on the stage. She's so Dangerous The girl is so Dangerous. She broke away from his affection and they both pulled to arms' length for several beats until she dropped to the floor gracefully and tried to disappear into the fog. He pulled hard refusing to let her go. Take away my money Throw away my time You can call me honey But you're no damn good for me She sprang to her feet in one beat, wrapped her leg around his, rubbing her groin along his thigh. He grasped her face gently in his hand. A touch so caring, so sensual once again a moan was heard from the crowd only it was the women who responded this time. Dangerous The girl is so Dangerous The whip appeared and she cracked it beside him as a warning, but he held her face in his hand. The handcuffs had magically disappeared in the fog. I have to pray to God Cuz I know how lust can blind It's a passion in my soul But you're no damn lover Friend of mine He pulled her lips toward his. She grabbed his silk shirt and ripped it away from his shoulders in one quick motion. He immediately stopped with the warning and turned them three perfect circle turns toward the center of the stage. I cannot sleep alone at night My baby left me here tonight I cannot cope till it's all right You and your manipulation You hurt my baby She swung the whip high over head, then wrapped it around them both. With her pelvis touching his, she caressed the bare part of his chest seductively. First with her fingertips, then finally her palms. His hand still held the side of her face and she arched backward offering her neck to him as her pelvis ground hard into his. And then it happened She touched me For the lips of a strange woman drop as a honeycomb He leaned in to kiss her neck wantonly and she enjoyed the feel as the beat of the music washed over their slowly undulating bodies. And her mouth was smoother than oil Bur her inner spirit was a s sharp as a two edged sword But I loved it Cuz...it's dangerous With a quick snap of the wrist, she unwound the whip and he released her neck. They pivoted together back toward the rear of the stage and her head snapped up to meet his eyes. The fog swirled higher and became thicker as they moved further away from the audience. The picture they were creating was becoming smaller, but their positions remained artistic and complete. The strobes flashed again and the whip cracked as they stood back center stage. Dangerous The girl is so Dangerous She tossed the whip into the air and placed both arms around his neck. At first her hands played in his long hair as they swayed to the music. She melded her body into his as his hands roamed her leather-clad body freely. Take away my money (Oh) Throw away my time You can call me honey But you're no damn good for me Her lips closed on his as her hands tore away the rest of his shirt. Dangerous The girl is so Dangerous She broke the embrace and stepped back to stare. Slowly, sensually she moved toward him once more. He reached for her and the handcuffs appeared once again. With a quick snap they encircled his wrist. This time he smiled. (Oh no) Take away my money Throw away my time (oooh) You can call me honey But you're no damn good for me His lips found hers and the crowd groaned in unison. The fog began to swirl, climbing higher and higher with each verse of the song. Her hands wove through his hair and she gave into the feel of his hard body against hers. The light strobes creating an eerie shadow on the lovers center stage as they did slow circle- turns using each other for support as they decreased the size of the turn. It gave the audience different views of the entwined lovers from every angle, yet never changed the overall picture intended for the judges. Dangerous This girl is so Dangerous They sank slowly into the fog as the lights began to dim and the final words echoed through the room. I have to pray to God Cuz I know how lust can blind It's a passion in my soul But you're no damn lover Friend of mine She is dangerous...so dangerous. The stage went dark and the room exploded with applause. The house lights came back up and the room screamed for more as the applause deafened the room. Eric and Marissa stood beside the side entrance and saw the couple sneak off the stage into the backroom. Marissa watched the woman move agily on the 3-inch heels as the man protected her from the crowd and whisked her backstage. Marissa started after them. Eric grabbed her arm. "Where do you think you're going?" He asked angrily. She turned angry eyes back at him. "To find out who in the Hell they are? Are you coming?" He didn't hesitate long and they both bolted for the door. End Part 6 Part 7 Adult Like Father Like Son By StormyNite Nick pushed Natalie into the room and locked the door quickly. Nat smiled wickedly as she watched him plant his back against the door firmly. The applause could still be heard backstage as the microphone announced the 4 numbers that would proceed to the finals. Nat walked seductively toward Nick still carrying the whip in her right hand. Ever so slowly she raked her fingernails down his bare chest until small trails of blood appeared. Her tongue soon followed her fingers as she lapped his blood with relish. His breath caught as her hot tongue licked the blood in small circles torturing him with pleasure. "Why do I let you do this to me?" He gasped and pulled her lips to his. His lips crushed hers as he pulled her body hard into his enlarged member straining for release from his leather pants. One of her hands managed to escape and worked havoc on his ever- growing need. "Because you love it." She said between kisses as she offered him her neck. "It makes you hot and out of control...and I like it." She devoured his mouth and sucked his tongue into hers. He growled as his fangs dropped. Her hand had found its target as she kneaded and rubbed his already hard cock. "Natalie...we...have to..." He tried speaking between kisses as she drove his body insane with desire. "Damn me to Hell!" He gave into both their needs and tore her leather top to shreds. His lips found one breast and sucked gently, then harder while his other hand kneaded the unattended one into a hard nub. She gasped in pleasure as he nipped and sucked the blood into his mouth. Pure unadulterated lust overwhelmed him. Being the Shadow Dancer not only turned him on, but her as well. She wanted to feel him lose himself inside her, to give into the passion and lust of the man. With no more hesitation, he tore her leather pants from her willing body and pushed her to the floor. His hands were everywhere as he lost himself to the feel of the only woman he'd ever truly loved. "Love me, Nick. I want to feel you inside me...now." She gasped between breaths. His hard cock ached for fulfillment as it strained against the leather and he stood quickly to eliminate the problem. She lay naked on the floor before him. Slowly Nat ran her hands down her flat stomach and spread her labia. Each movement was a sensual caress and his body reacted immediately. Bloody precum coated his penis as she moaned with pleasure from her own touch. "This could be you, Nick. I want it to be you." She ran one hand over her breast and squeezed gently. He slowly slid his body over hers letting the friction from their bodies ignite the fire between them. He rubbed his engorged cock on her inner thigh and suckled her breast until she squirmed in frustration and reached for him. He needed little encouragement and buried himself deep within her in one stroke. Her juices flowed freely as the scent of their lovemaking enveloped the room. Slowly at first, he moved deep within her. She ground her pelvis into his in an effort to get him deeper inside her willing body. The sweet friction between his cool shaft and her hot core drove them on. He found her lips again and they dueled for control as the fire within her belly burned brightly. When he pulled out, she forced him back even harder than the stroke before. Her need to make him feel every inch of her both inside and out was out of control. She ground her clitoris into the base of his shaft and still she wanted more. "Help me, Nick." She stared down between them and watched him work her body. She saw the strain in his face and the love in his eyes and she knew what her body craved above all else. He threw his head back in frustration as his body pummeled hers. "Nick...take me...all of me." She pulled him to her neck. "Make me one with you." Lost to the feel of her around him, he gave into what both their bodies craved. He sank his fangs deep into her neck and drank. As her blood flooded his mouth, he pumped his seed deep within her. She cried out his name in release as the images of love and hope of a future together flooded her mind. He drank deeper and a warmth she'd never known washed over her. She orgasmed again and gave into the link between them. Light and sheer passion overwhelmed him with the first taste of her blood. His body responded by giving into the man's need and releasing his seed. Her love cradled him, wrapped him a feeling of euphoria and pleasure he'd craved all his life, then his son touched him. Their minds became one and he knew for the first time in his life, that love was the greatest gift of all. He released her neck and cradled her head in his hands. Blue eyes met his filled with happiness. "I have waited all my life for you Natalie Lambert. Nothing in my life has ever felt as right as being with you. I love you so much sometimes it scares me." She smiled, then caressed his face with her fingertips. "To be loved by you is a gift I'm not sure I deserve, but know that I have loved you since the day you sat up on my morgue table. What we have scares me so much at times I can't breathe. Having your baby terrifies me and thrills me to the point at times I think I'm going crazy, but I know now we shall always be together. I'll never question that again. I carry a part of you that shall never die." She kissed him softly as someone pounded on the door. Nick jerked them to their feet in one swift motion. "You change and I'll cover." He stared at her naked form, then chuckled. "This is getting to be a habit." She turned, posed and caressed her body once more in front of him while smiling mischievously. He laughed fully this time. "And I think I like it...a lot." Nat scurried behind the dressing screen and grabbed a few clothes on the back of the chair. Nick tossed on his jeans and silk shirt left on the back of the couch, then finally grabbed what was left of their costumes from the floor. Searching quickly for a place to stash them, he tossed them into a box in the corner and headed for the door. Marissa pounded on the door again. They had to be in there. She and Eric had been watching the exits. No unfamiliar faces had left. She'd checked every dressing room. This was the last one. She pounded again and the door opened. She virtually fell into the room and Nick caught her before she hit the floor. "Nick?" Marissa squeaked as he helped her to her feet. "What are you doing in here? Where are the man and woman who did the last number? I need to talk to them." She searched the room looking for the woman. She saw the figure still changing behind the screen. She turned angry eyes to Nick, then blatantly searched the room. "What is your reason for wanting to see Miss Shadow, Marissa?" Nick spoke calmly, restraining himself from laughing. "Eric is furious. He's looking for her. He's already told me, he's dumping me for her. That number pushed his buttons. He's freaked. I just thought I should warn her..." "I will take that under advisement, Officer." Natalie said as she stepped from behind the screen. She wore Shadow's long black wig, tight jeans, and a short leather jacket with Southwestern insets. Her boots were knee high with 3-inch heels and the majority of her face was hidden by the dark sunglasses. Her lips were glazed with bright red lipstick, creating a sharp contrast to the dark wig and making her skin appear almost translucent. The way she walked left no doubt as to who she was. The feeling of raw sex laced with need overwhelmed Marissa. The soft sent of jasmine floated on the air as she neared, but Marissa couldn't place the other smell in the room as the scents began to mingle. She had a very good sense of smell. Marissa stared in fascination. What was it about this woman that made men flock to see her. She wasn't overly tall, nor any better built than herself, but there was something about her. When she walked, her voice, they all said 'take me if you can'. She screamed lust, passion, pure sexual desire, then Marissa recognized the other smell. She should have recognized it immediately. She stared at Nick for confirmation. They'd been making love. The room reeked of it. She glared angrily at Nick, then smiled. It would appear the good Dr. Lambert didn't have him all tied up at all if he was having sex with this little slut. This was usable. She decided a different tactic was needed. "I take it your dance partner slipped out unnoticed?" Shadow walked over and picked up her topcoat from the back of the chair. The long leather duster she'd worn on stage had multiple uses. Natalie sized her up and wondered just how far she would go to get Nick at her side. It was time to take a stand. "I didn't realize any of my business was your concern, Officer?" She walked over to Nick's side and ran a long painted nail down his silk shirtfront as she stared into his blue eyes and presented her backside to Marissa. "I'm under Detective Knight's personal protection and he does it very, very well." Shadow glanced over her shoulder at Marissa and smiled. "I appreciate your concern, Officer, but I'm very pleased with Detective Knight's performance in the field. I don't think I have need of any other assistance." She slipped her hand around Nick's waist and ran the other one possessively over his midsection stopping just above his belt buckle. Marissa hadn't moved. "Is there anything else, Officer?" Marissa finally gained control and stared at Nick. As usual his eyes gave nothing away, but he hadn't removed her hand either. This was not happening. "I thought you were to be watching me, Nick?" She reverted to the only option left. "You're being watched, Marissa. Miss Shadow has first priority because she's a civilian." "Sure she does!" Marissa fumed, then stormed out of the room. Nick pulled Nat snug up against his side. "Well, did that feel good?" "Oh, yes...that felt better than good!" Nick chuckled as he watched Nat smile from ear to ear. "We better get out of here, but I'm not sure who you should watch closer...Eric or Marissa." I'll go first, but I want you to use the eyes in the back of your head. He will be here. He hasn't left. Schanke will be in the balcony and the others are positioned throughout the theatre. No chances!" He kissed her softly. "I still need to be made into an honest man you know." He rubbed her face gently between his thumbs. "Honestly...be very, very careful. I can't stand the thought of losing you." "Just be my shadow and WE'LL be fine." She smiled and placed his hand over her stomach to feel the baby kick slightly. Nick smiled. "He likes to feel you too. Now go! I want to go home." Nick headed for the door. "By the way, I always wanted a son. I hope he looks exactly like his father." She smiled and waved before he stepped out the door. --------------- Eric had paced the floor continually in the upper balcony. They hadn't left. He thought he saw the long-haired man leave earlier, but the woman was still here. She was the Shadow Dancer. They had been right. She was incredible and it didn't matter what he would do with Marissa or anyone else for that matter. He had to have her as his partner or he wouldn't win. The light behind the stage appeared only briefly and he saw a tall man step out of the door. He disappeared down the hallway. The door slammed moments later. He'd been wrong. Her partner hadn't left yet, but she was alone now...Then he saw her. It was her. He would know the walk anywhere. The high heels, tight jeans and the long black hair. Apparently, she wore a wig on stage like Cher did. The light scent of jasmine caught his attention as he stared at her walking slowly across the stage. Obviously, she needed to check something out for the finals tomorrow night and didn't want anyone else around. Carefully she checked the footlights, then a stage prop setting off to the side and finally she paced off the distance from one side of the stage to the other. She did dancer's pirouettes from side to side and back to front. She was counting the number in both directions. Even in the low light and the tight jeans, she was incredibly sensual. Everything about her screamed sex. He had to have her. She finished the count and made herself a note on the paper in her hand. He appeared by the side of the stage like a ghost. "You were magnificent tonight." He said softly. Shadow turned gracefully and walked to his side unafraid. She stopped only a few feet from his side. "I'm flattered, Mr. Landhorse. I wouldn't think you'd take the time to watch. I would think my type of performance would be distasteful to you." She waited for him to deny it. "No performance that captures the audience like you did tonight is distasteful. I only wish I had gotten to perform it with you. We would be perfect together." He reached up to offer his hand to her. His audacity was only matched by his father's. She could see where he'd gotten it. She laughed at his outstretched hand and he grew angry instantly. "What makes you think I would even consider dancing with you, Mr. Landhorse." She raised an eye, but he couldn't see from the dark glasses that covered her face. "It's Eric. My father is Mr. Landhorse, Shadow." He leaped up onto the stage gracefully and she didn't budge from her location. Eric was amazed at her bravado. His reputation he was sure preceded him. Either she was very foolish or knew something he didn't. He scanned the room once more. He was certain they were alone except for the cleaning people in the back. "Dance with me and I'll show you." He grabbed her hand. She pulled it free and finally stepped back. "I don't think so, Eric. Your partners don't tend to stay around very long." He lunged for her and trapped her in his embrace. "Not this time. I won't let him near you. This time you will be all mine." He started to kiss her and she kneed him in the groin. He doubled over and howled in pain between curses. "You bitch! I'll use you up, then throw you to him." He jumped towards her, but she side-stepped him once more. She stood silently 3 feet away. Rage washed over her. She couldn't tell if it was Nick's or the young man before her, but she tried to push into her link with Nick. Something wasn't right. He stood and brushed off the lint from his jacket as if not concerned, then struck like a snake. He wrapped her in his arms as she struggled. "Now, now...no more little knee jobs...I don't find those fun and when I get done with you, you won't be dancing anymore. This is going to be more fun than the last time. This time I'm going to get to use you all up before Dad has a whack at you. Trust me when I say, you'll like what I have to offer better. It's fresher, newer and a whole lot harder..." He ground his pelvis into hers as she struggled. "Stop that!" He started to slap her, but his hand was caught in mid-air. He stared in disbelief as his wrist snapped right before his eyes. Pain shot through his arm and he turned to meet the feral red eyes of an angry vampire. Eric screamed and released his grip on Nat. Nick jerked Eric by his broken wrist toward him and pressed his face inches from his. "From the looks of things I'd say the lady is not interested in your attention." Nick growled letting just the tips of his fangs show. "I would suggest you tell me everything about your last little adventure with Daddy or I might get really angry." "I...I...I didn't mean anything...Let me go!" Eric struggled. Nick grabbed his collar and lifted him off the floor like he weighed nothing. "You won't like it if I get really angry. The police will be interested in everything you have to say." He tossed Eric into a heap on the floor, then stalked after him. "No!!! Stay away from me. I didn't do it...Dad did it! He always does it!" He scooted away from Nick on the floor. "Please!" He saw the uniforms and Schanke running down the aisle toward them. "Please!!!!! Keep him away from me. He's...he's not human!" Nick reached down and picked him up off the floor just as Schanke, three uniforms and Captain Cohen jumped up on the stage. "You make me sick!" Nick growled in his ear. "You tell them everything about you and Daddy and I might not get really ticked. You decide to play games and I'll be your living nightmare!" Nick let the gold fleck his eyes once more, then pushed him toward Schanke and the uniforms. He turned to the Captain. "I think he wants to have a little conversation now, Captain…a very long conversation." Cohen stared at her star detective and watched him put that cold mask of indifference back in place, but the anger, the evil she'd felt when she stepped on stage was gone now. She shook her head to clear the feeling and watched as Natalie walked to his side unafraid. Whatever Nick was, whatever he could do, the relationship between the two of them was obviously based on trust. Nick relaxed immediately and bright blue eyes met the Captain's. It was no wonder they called him the Knightmare when he was angry. She'd never actually witnessed it before, but from Eric Landhorse's reaction, she hoped she never would. "We'll take care of it, Nick." She turned to Natalie and smiled. "I enjoyed the performance Miss Shadow, but then again reality has it's own rewards." She turned to Nick and smiled, then became all business. She turned to the uniforms and nodded. "I expect you will make sure Miss Shadow is taken care of, Detective?" She raised a questioning eye. "Absolutely, Captain!" He smiled and wrapped a protective arm around her. "We wouldn't want any problems. "Make sure she's safe, Nick, and meet me at the precinct. We may need your talents of convincing our young performer to be totally honest." She headed for the door. End Part 7 Part 8 Like Father Like Son By StormyNite ------------ "That took incredible control on your part." Nat said calmly when they sat down in the caddy. Nick immediately pulled her into his arms. She relaxed and rested her head on his shoulder. "I wanted to tear his throat out when he touched you. I could hear every disgusting word, yet, you weren't afraid. If you hadn't pushed into our link, I'd have blown it." He pulled her head back and looked into her eyes guiltily. "Thank you! You're the smartest, bravest woman I've ever met." He smiled and kissed her nose. "I wasn't worried, Nick. You were there with me and I just had to know if he'd killed Tanya and I'm still not sure. He's insane and doesn't see anything wrong with what he's done. I don't know what to believe. If what he said was true, his father is as guilty as he is." She thought for a moment back to the way Jason had grabbed her arm the previous night. "I just thought he was impressed with himself and his money before...but now...I'm not sure." "I'm putting an APB out on Jason Landhorse as well. I'm guessing one is as guilty as the other. We will see what he has to say. If I'm there, he'll turn. He's a coward at heart and without Daddy's money, we might get what we need. Right now all we can hold him on are assault charges...but he'll break." He kissed her lips softly. "I'm going to take you home where you're safe, then head back to the precinct." --------------- Natalie pushed the up button on the lift. She'd pulled the wig off and shoved it in the tote bag under her arm. Nick made sure she was inside before he left. Natalie Lambert was in no danger. When she opened the door, she knew she wasn't alone. He stood by the fireplace drinking a glass of wine and staring at the sword displayed proudly over the mantel. He turned to face her. "It's a thirteen century crusader's sword, very unique and very expensive." Jason walked over to the Steinway and rubbed it gently with his good hand. The other one sported a dark cast hidden under his sleeve. "Steinway...19th century I believe and the painting in the corner is a daVinci. You have very expensive tastes, Doctor." He walked over to her. Her auburn hair hung loosely around her shoulders and the tight jeans and leather jacket accentuated every curve. He stared at her openly. "It would appear you have a great many secrets, Doctor, and I intend to discover them all." He was on her before she had time to react. Fear crashed over her. Jason Landhorse was in her house. How did he get in? What did he want? Was he as insane as his son? Was Nick already at the precinct? She reached out to him. Within seconds Jason pounced. He held her tight in his embrace as she struggled. "Now...now... you know you want me." He ground his pelvis into her tight jeans just as his son had only an hour before. The thought registered in her mind. They were both insane and that frightened her more. Finally she kneed him hard, causing him to double over cursing loudly. She stepped back... "Eric didn't care for it either as I recall." She ran to the fireplace and pulled down Nick's sword. Jason laughed hysterically as the pain diminished, then came after her. "You think that little toy will stop me. I'm going to have you. No one refuses me. I am Jason Landhorse!" He took another step toward her and she swung the sword in an arc. It grazed his chest and he howled in surprise. "You little bitch! I'm going to beat you harder for that, then I'm going to ram my cock up your ass until you beg me to kill you." He lunged again. She side-stepped him and crushed the sword handle down on his back. He grunted in pain, but managed to catch her ankle. She fell hard and dropped the sword. Crawling on top of her, he slammed her head into the carpet as he held her hands above her head. She used every ounce of strength to throw him off balance to no avail. He laughed. "Stupid bitch! You think the others didn't fight me before I killed them. I like a woman to fight me. It's so much more fun. I want to see you bleed." He raised his hand to strike her with the cast on his hand. She used the change in position to throw her hip and catch him off balance. He cursed loudly as he hit the floor with his full weight on his left shoulder. He was forced to catch his balance on his broken wrist, which enraged him more. She rolled to her knees and scrambled for Nick's sword. He screamed in rage and lunged. A hand appeared and jerked him to his feet. In the time it takes to breathe, he was thrown across the room. He crashed into the end table and grabbed the small dagger that sat on display, before he gained his feet. Insanity played behind his eyes. Nick helped Natalie to her feet, checking her over quickly. "Nick, behind you!" She screamed as Landhorse plunged the dagger into his back. Pain shot through Nick's right shoulder, but didn't slow his response. In an instant, the vampire was in control. He pushed Nat away and gave his full strength to his backhand. It connected to Jason's jaw and sent him sailing across the room. The snap of his skull against the concrete wall didn't appease the anger raging within Nick. He hissed in rage and gave in to the beast. Pulling Landhorse's body from the floor, he jerked his neck to one side. Victory was his. "NO, NICK!!!!!!!" Natalie screamed as he exposed Landhorse's neck. Jason's blood coated Nick's shoulder from the head wound and called the beast. Feral red eyes greeted hers as the man she loved gave into the evil within him. "He's not worth it Nick." Her soft voice caressed him. "Don't give in to what LaCroix made you. You ARE like your father, but your father gave you this." She handed him his sword. "You are your Father's son." She turned the family crest over, and shoved the hilt of the sword toward him. "Take it. You are a crusader, a knight, an avenger of the evil and wrong in this world just as your Father was. Use the power within you Nick to defeat the evil." He dropped Landhorse's still body and let it fall to the floor. She shoved the sword into his hand. "Like father, like son, Nick. Be what you were always meant to be." The gold disappeared from his eyes and he pulled her into his arms. "I have no idea why you love me, but I thank God every day for bringing you into my life." He buried his head in her hair and inhaled deeply of the scent that was uniquely hers. "I had forgotten who I really was...thank you." He kissed her cheek with gratitude. "Thank you for reminding me." She pulled free to cradle his face in her hands. "My pleasure, my love. Now I suggest we take care of that little problem in your shoulder and you change your shirt before we call 911. I don't' want to have to explain to Captain Cohen how a 6 inch dagger wound healed completely before they saw it." She stared down on the floor at the lifeless form of Jason Landhorse. "He let his money and power make him believe he was God. Both father and son lost grip with reality." She looked at Nick in disgust. "If that's what money brings, then I don't want it." She looked at Nick and smiled. "Let's get you fixed up and this dead man out of our house. As I remember correctly, I promised to make an honest man of you tonight." End Part 8 Part 9 Like Father Like Son By StormyNite Written in 1999 Song: 'Dare Me' by the Pointer Sisters Saturday Finals Performance The theater was stuffed. It was standing room only. Marissa fumed as she was not being allowed to perform. Eric had been arrested for assault, attempted murder and four cases of rape. When he was placed behind bars and Jason's death announced, four women came forward to make statements and press charges. Eric wouldn't be seeing the light of day in his lifetime if the Crown had anything to say about it. There were only 3 finalists now and it was rumored the Shadow Dancer wouldn't perform either. The killer was dead and his crazy son locked up, so that only left two groups to perform. She'd offered to perform a solo for the audience but Tom Flarrety simply refused. She was as good as the Shadow Dancer and all these people knew it. As she searched the crowd, she recognized a good number of their faces. They were from all over the city. She saw Nick and Schanke standing at the back of the room as the crowd became restless after the second number. Someone started chanting in the back of the room. "Shadow...Shadow...Shadow..." Marissa didn't miss a beat and walked out on the stage. The crowd ignored her and continued to chant. Humiliated, she finally walked off the stage. Finally, Tom Flarrety walked on stage. "Ladies and gentlemen, we appreciate all your support during this event and I know you wish to see the Shadow Dancer perform one more time. I am sorry to tell you Miss Shadow has permanently retired. She danced to catch a killer and that is done. I'm sure you share my appreciation for her actions and will respect her wishes. She has suggested in her place that you watch this final number as a replacement for her. The house lights dimmed and the fog began to roll onto the stage. Low fans were added to cause a light trail to the fog as it shot up from the floor. On the side of the stage sat a woman with her back to the audience. The lights played across her back as the auburn highlights of hair glistened. The fog was now filled with little pieces of metal that caught the light and reflected it intermittently. The light switched between soft hues of white and pink as the music 'Dare Me' by the Pointer Sisters started to play softly in the background. I've got a chip on my shoulder with your name on it- Knock it off. So don't just stand there foolin' if you don't want it- Knock it off She now stood slowly, stretched and turned slightly. Every movement was to the beat and exaggerated as she put her hands on her hips and twisted. The stance was haughty and accented the tight leather pants that covered her backside. She moved again and the light caught the glitter on her face paint, done at an angle across her features to disguise her face. She wore a leather biker's jacket over tight leather pants. On the shoulders of the jacket, a silver inset caught the light. When she turned to face the audience matching stripes accentuated the leather pants from her waist to her ankle. She looked all leg as her black stiletto heels with jeweled insets clicked in time to the music. Her head snapped at the words. She stretched out her arm and pointed across the stage. I say you're either a lover or you're a liar So don't you push too hard You're playing with fire. She opened her palm and snapped her wrist causing a flame to shoot out two feet from her fingertips. The fire shot toward the far side of the stage and lighted the figure of a man for a brief second. With the next beat of the music he moved toward her with one graceful pivot turn. Baby Make your move Step across the line. The fog thinned now as the fans left wisps floating here and there. His tall lean figure was encased in tight black jeans and the silver threads in his white silk shirt caught the lights that began to strobe. Over his shoulder, he carried a leather jacket as he stalked closer to the woman who had now turned her back to him. Only the band of light separated them now. He stepped across and touched her shoulder. She turned in response and leaned into his hand as the music began to build. Touch me one more time Come on Dare me! She glared at his hand on her shoulder, then pivoted until she was behind him. Now her hands snaked around his waist. You could see the flash of diamonds on her left finger as she caressed his chest in time to the music. He relaxed and swayed in perfect unison to the action of her hands. I wanna take you on I know I can't lose I'll be loving you if you just dare me. She pulled hard on his shirt until it tore. It lay in shreds still tucked in at his waist. Her hands splayed openly on his bare chest as she caressed him with her whole body now from the rear. Looks like you're looking for trouble And I'd say you found it-you found it. Her hands ventured lower with each beat. Almost reaching their targets, he grabbed each one slowly and helped her massage his growing need. The men in the crowd groaned. When she pushed even lower, he pulled her arms up over their heads with their fingers locked, then turned gracefully to face her. With one quick movement, he pulled her hard against him as the words echoed through the speaker. You'll have to come right through me There's no way around it-you found it. With exaggerated movements, their bodies swayed to the beat as one. Her arms wrapped around his neck and she pressed her pelvis into his. She licked her lips and growled in appreciation as his hands caressed her leather-encased ass freely on stage. I hope that lean hungry look means what is saying Cause I'm just sittin' on ready Ready and waiting. His head leaned for her lips and she pushed him away. One full turn and she dropped her jacket off her shoulders, then flipped her wild mane of auburn hair in his direction. The light flashed again, catching the face paint and sparkling as the fog began once more. The fans blew steady now as the dancers toyed with each other. With each beat she strutted before him, until at last she dropped the jacket completely. The leather haltertop appeared to be part of a one-piece camisole that buckled right at her waist and disappeared into her tight pants. She leaned over and displayed her cleavage to him openly as the sparkling powder on her breasts caught the light. She licked her lips slowly and stepped back. The light appeared on the floor and separated them once more. Baby Make your move Step across the line She rubbed her sides slowly moving with every beat. She rolled her head back and enjoyed the feel of her own hands. Ever so slowly she reached her pants. She gave one quick tug and tore them free from her lithe form. Come on and dare me She stood before him in a one-piece leather thong that sported a silver buckle at her belly-button. She appeared to have more legs than she actually had as the thigh high soft leather boots that Shadow had worn the night before caught the lights. The jewels in the heels sparkled like fire as she turned and presented her virtually naked backside to him and the audience. Each step was to the beat as well the sway of her hips. Then she turned and stepped across the line of light on the floor. If there's any truth behind your intentions. This night's gonna end up on fire-you better believe it. You better believe it, Oh baby, oh Dare me. Their eyes locked and he slowly grabbed the shredded shirt around his waist and tossed it across the room. As it sailed through the air, the words echoed throughout the theater. Dare me He reached for her hand and placed it on the hard planes of his chest. The music grew louder. Dare me Come on and dare me She smiled and offered another hand. He grasped it gently and placed it on his thigh and moved with the beat. The bulge was visible from everywhere in the room. The fog began to thicken and the lights started to alternate from white to silver, then pink to hot red. Dare me Baby Make your move Step across the line She completely stepped out of the line of light and into his arms. He pulled her tight into his arms. Without hesitation, she ground her near naked pelvis into the hard bulge in his pants. Baby Make your move Step across the line This time he licked his lips. The fog was almost over their waists now as his lips sought hers. Just as the final words echoed throughout the room, their lips met. Baby Make your move Step across the line They sank into the fog and the auditorium went dark. Cheers arose from the crowd and the chant began again. "Shadow...Shadow...Shadow...." They began to stomp their feet as the noise in the room became deafening. The lights went up. Tom Flarrety stepped onto stage and tried to quiet them down. Finally with the use of his screeching microphone, he got their attention. "I suppose you'd like to know who our couple on stage was and I hope you'll show your appreciation for their incredible talent. I think they did the Shadow Dancer proud. I suspect a lot of you already know them. I give you Nick Knight and Natalie Lambert. Give them a big hand. Cheers went up as Nick and Nat stepped back onto the stage. Nick had tossed his tear away shirt on and Natalie her long leather duster. With each step her leather boots sparkled in the light and naked thigh could be seen clearly. She didn't bother to button the duster, but flaunted her cleavage. Nick squeezed her hand as they came toward the front of the stage. This had been her choice, not his. A gasp of disbelief came from some corners until they both stood center stage. Her wild auburn hair caught the light as did the face paint, still quite visible across her features. Whistles, catcalls, 'atta a boy, Nick,' 'you go girl', were all heard throughout the thunderous loud applause. Then they started it again. "Shadow...Shadow...Shadow...We want more!" Nick and Nat bowed once more and headed quickly off stage. -------------- Miller sat beside Schanke and stared in awe. "I can't believe it. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I mean...I knew the Doc had a great figure but damn...She's the Shadow Dancer." Schanke handed him a napkin. "Just wipe up the drool, Miller." Schanke stood and started to head for the backstage area. "You knew all the time. I can't believe you didn't tell us." He looked at Schanke still in disbelief. "I don't remember Tom Flarrety saying that Nat was the Shadow Dancer." Schanke raised an eyebrow. "Right, Schank! Sure...as if you could disguise her style...." The crowd had started chanting in earnest once more...."Shadow...Shadow...Shadow..." ------------ Several of the uniforms walked by Marissa as she stood fuming in the hallway. She listened to the comments as they passed. "Unbelievable...Doctor Lambert is the Shadow Dancer. No wonder you couldn't get Knight away from her. We should be so lucky!" They laughed and proceeded down the hallway. Every time she stopped, it was more of the same. No one noticed her. There was only one topic of conversation. By the time she reached the dressing rooms, her temper was out of control. She barged in without knocking this time. The door was unlocked. Nat was behind the screen changing and Nick had just slipped his leather bomber jacket over his blue silk shirt. "Is there a problem, Marissa?" Nick eyed her cautiously listening to her rapid breathing and heartrate. "Yes!" She growled as she eyed the screen in the corner. "They might think Natalie is the Shadow Dancer, but we know better." She glared at Nick and waited for him to deny or affirm it. Nat stepped out from behind the screen. She wore tight jeans and a blood red stretch tank top. Slowly she walked to the vanity and picked up one of the boots. This time she slid it over her jeans. Marissa eyed the boots closely. "Where did you get those?" Marissa refused to believe. Nat slipped the second boot on slower than the first, displaying the large diamond on her left hand. The light danced off the ring and Nat smiled. "What's the matter, Marissa? Are you afraid this mousy little coroner possesses something you don't?" She smoothed the leather on the boot and picked up the wedding band off the vanity bureau. Ever so slowly, she slipped it into place until it locked to the large tiffany diamond already sitting comfortably on her finger. "It would appear, Marissa, some of us have hidden talents that don't require we flaunt them at work everyday." Nat picked up her leather duster and handed it to Nick. He smiled and helped her on with it. "You know what they say, Marissa. Mystery adds spice to a relationship...but that's not something you'd know about...Is it?" Nat leaned over and offered her lips to Nick, which he gladly accepted. When she finished, she used her left hand to flip her hair off her collar. The light caught the diamond perfectly and it flashed in Marissa's eyes. "I know they call Nick the Mystery Man." Nat smiled at Nick with happiness in her eyes. "I guess...mystery loves company..." she stared at Marissa with a no nonsense look, "permanent company...And I don't intend to share. Keep that in mind or I will show you a few of my other hidden talents...up close...and very personal." She walked over to the door and opened it wide. "Do have a nice night, Marissa." She smiled at Nick knowingly. "I know...I will!" The End This concludes the Shadow Dancer series. I certainly hope you all have enjoyed it. It started out as a story line that I was certain no one would appreciate but me...and I almost didn't post it. Thanks so much for everyone's support and praise on the series. It was incredibly fun and I enjoyed it a lot, as Nick and Nat did too. I know it's not canon and was never meant to be, but it sure gave Nat an outlet she never had in the show. I give many thanks to all those people who kept writing and encouraging me to write another one in this series. You all have been very patient. It is very hard to write the dance scenes as I'm not a dancer and many times have not even heard the music to the songs. Thanks to all of you who have submitted songs for Nat to dance to and I've considered them all, but in the end I had to go with the words that fit what I wanted them to do on stage. I hassled over this last one for almost a year trying to get just the perfect song for Shadow to come out...but not come out. I hope I achieved that and everyone enjoyed the story. I'm sure it is not as good as the original, but it held true to the character and was a lot of fun. Thanks for reading along! Stormy All comments to: StormyNite at: nitewind@plantnet.com **GWDFC, N&Npacker, Light Cousin, Xenite, X-File DieHard** *http://www.plantnet.com/~nitewind/Main.html Stormy's FK Page* http://www.plantnet.com/~nitewind/Fiction2.html Stormy's Fiction Page ********NO Feedback IS Feedback********