©2004 Love, above all, Faith
            By: Cheryl Pillsbury



        Warm scents of Spring emanated from the mountain air, pastel
colored flowers filled the meadows surrounding the mountains, and the
cabins.  Tall trees filled with dark green leaves rustling in a cool
breeze blowing by.  Green grass covered the ground with some small
stones lying upon the dirt.  The sun shined through the cabin's
bedroom window, rolled slowly upward and lightly touched Nick's
eyelids.  He was snuggled under the blankets with Molly sleeping in
his arms.  Nick's eyes began to twitch, and carefully opened them. 
Nick glanced down, saw the glowing smile upon her face and he
grinned.  He carefully crawled out of the bed, and strolled into the
hallway then into the bathroom; next to the bedroom.  He closed the
door, a few moments passed and a flush then the shower ran.  Nick
quickly stripped down, and stepped in.  He slid the door closed, and
got cleaned up.
        Molly slightly heard the shower water running, and looked
over to her left; Nick was gone.  She quickly climbed out of bed
strolling into the hallway and stood by the bathroom door.  She
placed an ear upon the door, heard the water, and grinned.  Molly
slowly reached over turning the doorknob, and quietly entered the
bathroom.  She slipped out of her nighty standing close to the shower
door and slowly slid it open.  Nick jumped slightly, but very pleased
to see her; naked.  Molly climbed in, and kissed him warmly as Nick
returned the love to her.  He leaned down turning the water off and
they carefully climbed out.  Nick reached for the towel behind him,
and they dried each other off.  Nick hung up the towel, and escorted
Molly to the bedroom.  They separated, and got dressed for the day. 
They also pulled out their suitcases, and began to pack.  They left
the suitcases in the hallway, met up in the doorway and Nick kissed
her forehead.
        Molly grinned warmly, stood very close to Nick's body, "What
would you like to do on our last day here?"
        Nick hesitated, smiled, "You decide."
        Molly thought for a moment, "How about a walk, and lunch in
the woods."
        Nick thought, smiled, "Perfect.  You pack the food, and I'll
get a couple of blankets."
        "Done."  Molly said in agreement.
        Molly reached up kissing Nick upon his soft cheek and gave
him a slight slap upon his butt.  Nick jumped slightly grinning and
Molly turned away.  She walked into the kitchen to prepare a romantic
lunch while Nick walked over to the closet, and pulled out a couple
of blankets.  He met Molly by the front door; they exited the cabin
and went on a slow romantic walk through the woods along the dirt
path.  As they strolled, hand-in-hand, observing the scenery, the
sounds of birds chirping in the distance and the faint sweet scent of
the flowers filled the air.
        After about three hours of walking; they came to a small
clearing near a pond surrounded by huge oak trees.  Nick laid out the
blanket while Molly sat down and unpacked the basket with Nick's
help.  Molly surprised him with finger sandwiches, and a bottle of
white wine.  She slowly poured the wine handing him a glass and
placed the bottle gently into the basket.  Molly raised her glass as
did Nick, and they said a warm but loving toast to each other.  Molly
noticed Nick was a little jumpy.  She took his glass, and she put
both glasses down then looked into his blue eyes.
        "What's wrong?"  Molly asked.
        Nick looked away then back, "It's embarrassing."
        Molly grinned, "What is it?  Can I help?"
        Nick snickered, "I need to go."
        Molly laughed slightly, "I can't help you there, except to
say; pick a tree."
        Nick hesitated, "What?"
        Molly grinned, "Do you want me to come with you?"
        "No.  Give me a few."  Nick said.
        "Okay.  I'll be right here; waiting."  Molly told him.
        "I'll hurry."  Nick said.
        Nick leaned over kissing her soft rosy cheek and walked over
to the huge oak tree about two feet away.  He walked around behind
it; but looked to see if he could see Molly.  He moved back behind
the tree, and took in a deep breath.  He nervously unzipped his fly,
and urinated upon the ground.  When he was done; he zipped up and
strolled back to Molly then sat down.  She handed him a wet napkin
for his hands.  Nick smiled, and wiped his hands.  Molly had packed
up the basket, and she stretched out across the blanket.  Nick lied
beside her, and smiled.
        Molly smiled, "Feel better?"
        "Yes, thank you."  Nick said shyly, "Now what?"
        "Well; we have a few hours left; we're packed, and ready;
how about some---dessert."  Molly replied stroking his chest.
        Nick slightly surprised by the idea, "Here?"
        "Why not?  It's beautiful, quiet and very cozy."  Molly
described romantically.
        Nick grinned, "True, but…"
        Molly cleared her throat, "It's different, and you do carry
one; don't you?"
        Nick thought about the idea, the more he did the more he
became aroused.  He leaned up removed his jacket grabbing the other
blanket and covered themselves up.  Nick reached into his back pant
pocket, and pulled out two wrapped condoms showed them to Molly.  She
laughed happily wrapping her arms around his neck and pulled him
close.  Nick carefully rolled in between her legs; they kissed
passionately with a slight laugh.  Molly began to breathe slightly
heavy; Nick feeling fully aroused.  He quickly opened one condom
unzipping his fly and pushed his pants slightly away.  He slipped the
condom on kissing her warmly and they made love under the blankets in
the mountains.
        After about an hour or so, Nick lied beside her smiled
warmly.  Molly laid there with her eyes closed and smiled.  Nick
reached over grabbing a handful of napkins, carefully pulled the
condom off and wrapped it up.  He fixed himself, zipped up and placed
the napkins with the condom into the basket to throw it away later. 
Nick gazed upon Molly, and noticed she was very quiet.  He gently
tapped the tip of her nose with his index finger to draw her
attention.
        Nick smiled, "You okay?"
        Molly giggled slightly, "Yes, that was fun."
        Nick laughed, "Yes, it was." he agreed, "Any thing else you
desire?"
        Molly looked deep into his blue eyes, grinned warmly, "Well?"
        Nick feared the answer, "Not again?"
        Molly closed her eyes, kissed him warmly, "No, but later,
maybe."
        "Good.  Time to go anyway."  Nick said.
        Molly grinned, "Okay, you owe me one."
        "Agreed."  Nick answered.
        Nick stood up fixing his clothes and helped Molly to her
feet.  They quickly folded the blankets; Molly held them while Nick
took the basket.  They scanned the area to make sure it was clean. 
They slowly began their walk back to the cabin.  Molly stayed with
the car, and Nick went inside of the cabin.  He checked each room
picking up the suitcases and placed them at the front door.  He
opened the basket removing the napkins and walked into the bathroom. 
He tossed them into the trash barrel facing the toilet and few
moments passed with a flush then washed his hands.  Nick exited the
bathroom picking up the suitcases and the basket then left the cabin.
He strolled over to Molly, and opened the rear car door; he tossed
the bags and basket onto the backseat then closed the door.  He took
Molly by the hand escorted her to the passenger side of the car, and
opened her door.  She stepped in; he closed it and walked over to his
side.  He opened his door, and closed it.
        "Trash gone, everything cleaned up, and we're ready."  Nick
informed her.
        "Great.  Let's go home."  Molly suggested.
        "Dinner first, where?"  Nick asked.
        Molly hesitated a moment, "Giorgio's,"
        "Okay.  Let's go, I'm starving."  Nick said.
        "Again," Molly said with a slight laugh.
        "Funny," Nick sighed.
        Molly giggled snuggling up along side of him.  Nick started
the engine, and slowly drove leaving the cabin and the mountains
behind.  They traveled the long roads to Toronto with a heavenly pink
sunset to gaze upon.  The stars slowly shined as the sun went down;
the moonlight filled the sky and shined everywhere.
        
        In Toronto, up in Nick and Molly's loft, LaCroix and Jamie
had just finished decorating the place for their return.  A welcome
home sign hanging above the kitchen counter.  A silver bucket filled
with ice, and a bottle of wine rested on the counter with two wine
glasses.  LaCroix stood and gazed upon the bucket; Jamie quietly
snuck up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist.  He jumped
slightly turning to face her warm smile and sparkling eyes.  Jamie
reached up, and kissed him passionately.  LaCroix smiled warmly,
sighed and Jamie clasped her fingers together around him with a tight
grip.
        LaCroix grinned, "And what was that for?"
        "I love you."  Jamie responded.
        LaCroix grinned, "I love you, too."
        Jamie moved as close as she could to him, "How about we go
upstairs, and let them come home; privately."
        "And what do you have in mind for us to do?"  LaCroix
inquired.
        "Three guesses and the first two don't count."  Jamie
replied, smiling.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "Do go on."
        "Follow me," Jamie recommended by pulling him by the hand.
        "Anywhere, do lead on."  LaCroix said, eagerly.
        Jamie slowly led LaCroix up the stairs, and opened their
door to their bedroom.  LaCroix closed the door behind them.  They
stood along side of their bed; Jamie reached over and unbuckled his
belt.  She slowly unzipped his fly, and the pants slowly fell to the
floor around his ankles.  LaCroix unbuttoned and removed his shirt. 
LaCroix helped Jamie strip down out of her jeans, and t-shirt.  He
kicked off his shoes along with his pants, and pulled Jamie extremely
close to his warm body.  Jamie reached up, and they kissed each other
passionately.  She felt his arousal touching her between the thighs. 
LaCroix bent around lifting her up and laid her upon the bed. 
LaCroix lay along side of her; he slowly rolled over her leg and in
between her.  They kissed and caressed each others warm body. 
LaCroix moved closer until he penetrated her, and Jamie let out a
slight moan from his warm touch.  There breathing became heavy and
erratic; they made love.
        Nick and Molly had just arrived home.  They saw the banner,
and the wine resting on the counter.  They dropped the suitcases
walking over to the counter Nick picking up the bucket and Molly
grabbed the glasses.  They slowly walked up the stairs to their
bedroom, but Nick noticed LaCroix's door, and heard some noise.  Nick
placed his index finger upon his lips to tell Molly quiet.  He
quietly walked up to the door, and heard them breathing and moaning
then quickly walked away smiling.  LaCroix paused looking behind him
and turned back to Jamie.
        Jamie slightly nervous, "What is it?" 
        LaCroix sighed, "They're home."
        "That's nice.  You okay?"  Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix laughed, "Almost,"
        "Oh, Lucien," Jamie moaned.
        LaCroix and Jamie resumed their love making for the night. 
With a few laughs, giggles, but mostly, the love and moaning of the
heat from their climax.
        The night hours slowly passed into mid-morning.  Nick slowly
woke up from the buzzing of his alarm.  He rolled over turning the
alarm off, and rolled back to Molly's glowing smile.  He gently
kissed the top of her head; she woke up.  Molly gave her body a
slight stretch, and accidentally bumped Nick's nose.  She quickly sat
up, and gently kissed his nose as he lightly laughed.
        Molly pouted slightly, "I'm sorry, you okay?"
        Nick grinned, "I think so.  That helped."
        Molly sat up along side of him, "Good.  Agenda today."
        Nick hesitated, "Let's see, pick Paul up then take him and
Carla to work and check in, and bug Lucien."
        Molly inhaled, "That's quite a list."
        "That's only the morning."  Nick said.
        "Poor guy.  I'm thinking about trading my car in for a mini
van."  Molly said.
        "Why?"  Nick asked rather surprised.
        "Well, we travel a lot; I transport paintings, and the
possible future.  But, we can also; sleep, in the back."  Molly
listed to him.
        "The future sounds like heaven, the traveling, too.  Just
sleep."  Nick hinted.
        Molly grinned, "That too."
        "Love the idea.  If you need money or help, let me know." 
Nick offered.
        "I will.  Let's shower, and get moving."  Molly suggested.
        Nick smiled warmly, "Lead on M'Lady."
        Molly grinned widely slowly crawling off the bed and stood
along side of the bed with her hand extended outward to him.  Nick
eagerly crawled out of bed, and took her hand.  Molly escorted him to
the bathroom door, Nick extended his index finger and Molly leaned
upon the doorway.  Nick walked in, a few moments later; a flush and
opened the door.  Nick stepped aside to allow Molly her turn, and she
opened the door.  Molly took him by the hand, and pulled him in.  She
slid the door open, turned and set the temperature slightly hot. 
Molly turned around, and saw that Nick had already stripped down. 
She slipped her nighty up and over her head laughed lightly, and they
climbed into the shower.  Nick slid the door closed, and they got
clean for the day also a little love making.
        Inside of LaCroix and Jamie's room; they had just finished
getting dressed and stood at the foot of the bed.  LaCroix embraced
Jamie as she returned the same embrace; maybe tighter. 
        Jamie looked up to his warm face, "What?"
        LaCroix exhaled warmly, "Just thinking about how fortunate I
am; to have you."
        "We're both lucky."  Jamie replied.
        "True," LaCroix agreed, "Let's prepare a warm breakfast for
them."
        "Great, but did you have yours yet?"  Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix scoffed slightly, "No,"
        Jamie quickly walked over to the fridge, and removed the
bottle that was half full.  She closed the door, and quickly returned
to LaCroix's side.  Jamie handed him the bottle, and removed the
cork.  LaCroix drank the blood down rather quickly inhaling its
essence.  He gave Jamie the bottle, but had an almost disgust look in
his eyes.
        "What's wrong?"  Jamie asked.
        LaCroix lightly rubbed his bottom lip with his fingers,
"It's odd; drinking blood offends me now."
        Jamie lovingly kissed him upon his warm cheek, "Someday, you
won't be.  its coffee day, come on." she said taking him by the hand,
and led him out of their bedroom.
        They quietly walked down the hall, down the stairs and into
the kitchen.  Jamie prepared a small but warm breakfast, and showed
LaCroix how to set the table.  Nick and Molly walked down the stairs
when Nick inhaled the warm aroma of fresh brewed coffee.  They
entered the kitchen seeing Jamie had cooked some bacon and eggs then
approached the table.  Nick saw LaCroix setting the table; very
romantic.
        Nick stood in shock, "LaCroix."
        "Welcome home."  LaCroix said approaching Nick.
        LaCroix affectionately kissed Molly upon her cheek, and
embraced Nick.
        Nick smiled, "Thank you.  What this?"
        LaCroix returned to Jamie, and grabbed the pot of coffee. 
Jamie followed carrying the food.  LaCroix and Jamie sat down on one
side while Nick and Molly sat down on the other.  They shared about
thirty minutes of eating, and the rest with light conversation with a
few laughs.
        LaCroix picked up his coffee mug, hesitated while Nick
looked on.  LaCroix took in a few sips without reacting; he smiled as
Nick did.
        "How's the coffee?"  Nick asked.
        LaCroix paused, "Stimulating; a bit strong."
        "Good."  Nick replied.
        LaCroix took hold of Jamie's hand, "How was your weekend in
the mountains?"
        Molly slightly blushed while Nick grinned, "Interesting,"
        LaCroix saw the look of Molly blushing, "I see," he replied,
"What did you do there?"
        Nick blushing, grinned, "Hiked, picnic lunch, and went
fishing."
        LaCroix saw the grin, "Fishing, I see."
        "You two," Nick said, turning the table onto LaCroix.
        "The usual," LaCroix said quietly.
        "Really, how's the car?"  Nick inquired.
        LaCroix glared at Nick, "No trouble."
        "The shocks," Nick implied.
        LaCroix knew the meaning behind that question, "Haven't
tested them---yet."
        "You're slow."  Nick suggested.
        "Nicholas."  LaCroix said to cease the third degree.
        Molly felt the need to ease their one-line questioning,
"Lucien, did you have any books on mini vans?"
        LaCroix's eyes lit up, "Mini van."
        Molly smiled, "Yeah, we travel a lot, I transport stuff at
the Gallery, and it's more fun then a hotel."
        Nick buried his face, and then looked up into her eyes,
"Molly,"
        "You guys are too easy.  Right Jamie."  Molly replied,
looking at her.
        "Yeah," Jamie agreed.
        LaCroix looked to Jamie, "What are you trying to say?"
        "Nothing bad, honest.  But the word; prude, comes to mind." 
Jamie said.
        "What?"  Nick questioned.
        "Honey, it's not bad; it's honorable how the four of us talk
about everything, but the sex life.  But we're family; we can talk
about it, but not the intimate details.  You know; guy/girl talk." 
Molly explained.
        "Prude," LaCroix said.
        "Lucien," Jamie replied.
        "Before we go nuts here, relax.  Look, girl's talk about
what guys do, and vise-versa.  That's okay.  But the four of us can
have casual talk about sex.  Does that make sense?"  Molly expressed.
        Nick cleared his throat, "A prude."
        Molly sighed feeling uneasy, "I'm sorry."
        "Same here, Lucien.  We're just talking."  Jamie said.
        "It's all right.  You drive to the Raven, and I'll ride in
the backseat."  LaCroix said.
        "All right," Jamie replied.
        LaCroix slowly stood up pulling Jamie's chair back slightly
and she stood by his side.  They quickly exited through the back
door, and out to the car.  Jamie opened the door, and started the
engine.  She backed up popping the trunk switch and LaCroix quickly
jumped in closing the trunk door behind him.  Jamie placed the car in
drive, and quickly drove to the Raven.
        However, back up in the loft it was very quiet at the table,
and very serious.  Molly stared at Nick, and saw a smile, "Nick, are
you mad?"
        Nick sighed, "No, not really.  It's just that I have never
been told that before."
        Molly moved closer, smiled, "Honey, you and I, or you and
Lucien can talk about sex in every detail, but when the four of us;
family, are together, it seems we're afraid to say it.  That's all. 
I'm sorry if I hurt you."
        Nick reached over kissing her soft cheek, "Its okay.  I
promise to relax more.  Don't worry, I'm late; do you need a ride?"
        "No."  Molly replied softly.
        "I love you.  We'll talk later, all right."  Nick said.
        "Love you, too.  Okay."  Molly said.
        Nick quickly stood up kissing Molly passionately, and walked
over to the table to pick up his things.  He removed his gun from the
small drawer placing it into his belt and looked back at Molly.  Nick
smiled winked his left eye at her, and slowly left the loft.  He rode
the elevator down to the outside to his car.  Nick unlocked the door,
and closed his door.  Nick hesitated thinking about Molly; he then
started the engine, and drove quickly to Paul's apartment.
        Nick spotted the entrance placing his right directional on,
and slowly drove in.  He drove around to Paul's building, saw an
empty space near the door and parked the car there.  Nick turned the
engine off, and climbed out.  He closed the door, and strolled up the
path; inside the building.  Nick slowly walked up two flights of
stairs to the last apartment on the right, and knocked.  Paul quickly
answered the door saw Nick's face; not happy, stepped out into the
hall and closed the door behind him.
        "What's wrong Nick?"  Paul asked directly.
        "My first disagreement with Molly."  Nick shared sadly.
        "Tell me," Paul said.
        Nick sighed, "Jamie, Lucien, and us; were having breakfast;
we got started talking about sex, and Lucien and I wouldn't join in."
        "And?"  Paul inquired the rest.
        "Lucien and I are prudes."  Nick told him.
        Paul shrugged his shoulders, "That hurt."
        "Maybe.  I have no trouble talking to Molly, to you, or
Lucien, but all four us; I don't know."  Nick expressing his shy side.
        Paul hesitated lightly slapping his upper arm, "Don't worry,
we'll talk about it later.  We need to drop off Carla first then the
station."
        "Cool.  Let's go."  Nick said.
        "Let's go in."  Paul suggested.
        Paul quickly opened the door with Nick close behind him;
they saw Carla leaning upon the couch waiting.  Paul looked back at
Nick feeling he's in trouble, and strolled up Carla; displayed his
boyish grin.  Carla didn't seem impressed by it; she glared at him. 
Paul crossed his arms in front of chest clearing his throat.
        Paul looked into her eyes, "What's wrong?"
        "I'm late."  Carla said.
        "Sorry.  Let's go right now.  Come on.  Nick, lead the way."
Paul replied.
        "Come on."  Nick said.
        Nick turned about, and Paul locked it on the way.  They
strolled down the hall, down two flights of stairs and outside.  They
quickly walked up to Nick's car; he unlocked the doors and Paul
opened the back passenger door.  Carla carefully climbed in, and he
closed it.  Nick and Paul opened their own door, and closed them. 
Nick pulled out his keys from his jacket pocket, and started the
engine.  He carefully backed up, and drove out of the parking lot. 
Nick carefully blended into traffic, and quickly drove to the Mills
Elementary School.
        After about a twenty minute ride; they arrived at the
school.  Nick drove through the circle driveway, and parked near the
door.  Paul opened his door, and then Carla's.  She stepped out; he
closed it and Carla gave Paul a slight kiss upon his cheek then
walked away.  Paul climbed back in, and closed the door.  Paul
watched Carla walked up the path, and inside.  Nick noticed how quiet
Paul was tapping his arm to draw his attention.
        "You okay?"  Nick asked.
        "Do you have room in your dog house for one more?"  Paul
inquired.
        Nick expressed confusion, "Dog House?"
        Paul sighed, "That's where you go, when you've been naughty.
You're a prude, and I made her late."
        "What do you do to get out?"  Nick asked.
        Paul turned to face him as Nick drove to the station, "Well,
first, you apologize."
        "Did that."  Nick answered.
        "Flowers, romantic dinner."  Paul suggested.
        "Okay.  I'll try."  Nick said.
        "Then change.  Plan a night of the four of you.  Get into
it.  Like, Truth or Dare game."  Paul hinted.
        Nick chuckled, "Truth or Dare,"
        "Yeah.  Let's say, Lucien.  You say truth or dare.  He says
truth.  You ask him, where was the oddest place he and Jamie had
sex."  Paul played out.
        "You're kidding right?"  Nick asked.
        "No," Paul answered.  "Try it, its fun."
        "All right."  Nick reluctantly agreed.
        "Send a dozen roses to Molly with that phrase on the card. 
Get her started."  Paul said smiling.
        "All right.  There's a space over there.  Hold on."  Nick
said.
        Nick slowly drove into the empty space along the left side
of the building.  He turned the engine off; they opened their door
and they climbed out.  They closed their door, and they strolled
along the sidewalk.  They climbed up the few stairs, and walked down
to Nick's desk.  Paul began with the computer while Nick ordered
roses for Molly.  He hung up the phone, and leaned towards Paul.
        Paul nudged his arm, "Well,"
        "One dozen yellow roses with that on the card; her
favorite."  Nick told him.
        "Good.  Let's tie up some loose ends, and you can tell me
every detail of your weekend."
        Nick laughed slightly; they began the paper work and Paul
filled in the files; closing some cases.
        
        At the Mills Elementary School, Carla had just finished
lunch with the kids when a young man lightly knocked upon her door
then entered.  He quietly approached her desk, leaned upon it with
his hands and glanced over to her eyes.  She looked up, jumped
slightly and excused herself from the class.  She followed him to the
door, and stepped into the hallway.  Carla closed the door, and
displayed a displeased expression glared into his eyes.
        Carla inhaled angrily, "Adam, you do not enter my classroom
while I'm teaching."
        Adam sighed, "But I needed to see you."
        "Why?"  Carla asked.
        "I tried to call you; you weren't home."  Adam told her.
        "Paul and I were skiing."  Carla told him.
        "Who's Paul?"  Adam inquired.
        "My future husband, why?"  Carla asked, feeling nervous.
        "I just thought…never mind."  Adam said, sadly.
        Carla exhaled, "Next time; wait until schools out.  Don't
call me at home; that's not for your use."
        "But," Adam started.
        "Goodbye.  I need to go back in."  Carla said opening the
door, and closing it behind her.
        Carla resumed teaching her class the art of writing while
Adam glared at her through the window for a few moments.  He became
angry; he hit his fist on the wall and blood red knuckles then into
the palm of his other hand.  Adam walked down the corridor slamming
his hands upon the door and pushed it open that it crashed on the
wall.  The door automatically closed; Adam vanished.
        
        Back at the station, Nick and Paul leaned back into their
chairs with a huge stretch to their body.  Nick let out a huge sigh
of relief while Paul yawned loudly.  Reese quietly approached them,
and stood along the desk observing them.
        "You guys bored?"  Reese asked.
        Paul coughed, "No, just finished the last of the paperwork."
        "Good."  Reese replied.
        Before Reese could utter another word, Nick's cell phone
rang; shocked everybody; even Nick.  He pulled it out of his jacket
pocket, and pushed his chair away; about two feet.
        "Knight," Nick announced.
        "Ebourn," Molly said softly.
        Nick smiled, "Hi.  You okay?"
        Molly sniffed slightly, "No, I'm sorry."
        "Why?"  Nick asked.
        "I didn't mean to hurt your feelings."  Molly apologized.
        "Want to do lunch?"  Nick asked.
        "Yeah, and we can share the roses.  There lovely."  Molly
expressed warmly.
        "Just like you.  I'm on my way."  Nick said as he hung up
his phone.
        Nick quickly stood up walking over to Paul and touched
Paul's shoulder then left quickly.  Paul knew by the smile where he
was going.  Reese watched Nick leave then looked to Paul; very
confused.
        "Now, where's he going?"  Reese asked.
        "Uhm---something suddenly came up."  Paul answered grinning.
        "Great."  Reese said walking away.
        Nick ran down the stairs over to his car, and unlocked his
door.  He opened it, and closed the door.  He started the engine, and
quickly drove to the Gallery; to Molly.  Nick saw the Gallery to his
left, and parked along the curb.  He turned the engine off, opened
his door and climbed out.  He closed it, and ran up the stairs.  He
quickly walked down the corridor to Molly's office on the left, and
knocked on the door.  Nick opened, and closed the door behind him. 
He removed his jacket tossed it into a nearby chair saw Molly sitting
on top of her naked desk eagerly waiting for him.  Nick slowly
approached her noticing a tear on her cheek and reached up wiping it
away.  Nick leaned over passionately kissing her ruby lips.  She
wrapped her arms completely around his waist.  Nick leaned up smiled
as she did.  Molly gazed into his blue eyes, Nick stroked her face
warmly; all was forgotten.  Molly slowly brought her hands around
touching his belt and looked up.  Nick smiled nodded his head, and
grinned.  She slowly unbuckled his belt, and unzipped his fly.  She
gazed up into his eyes as she lovingly stroked him.  Nick felt
himself becoming aroused.  Molly laid back as Nick slowly laid upon
her and they made love; made up.
        
        Adam returned to the school, but entered through a basement
window.  He quietly crawled in; carrying a bag, and closed it.  Adam
walked over to the fuse box, and opened it.  He reached down opening
the bag and pulled out a silver pipe-cylinder with a digital clock on
it.  He gently placed it inside, and set the alarm for three o'clock;
when school closes.  Adam gently closed the door to the fuse box
wiping it down and left the same way he got in then vanished.
        Paul sat at Nick's desk, when Reese appeared with a
frightened look in his eyes.  Paul took notice, and he felt his fear.
Paul stood up to face him, "What's wrong?"
        Reese exhaled, "Bomb threat; at the Mills Elementary."
        Paul gasped, "That's Carla's school."
        "Bomb squad are on there way.  Get Knight, and be there. 
She's fine.  There's a cruiser outside.  Jack will take you to him." 
Reese ordered.
        Paul ran out of the station, and jumped into the cruiser. 
He told Jack where the Gallery was located, and Jack quickly pulled
away with the siren on.  Paul called ahead, and informed Nick of the
situation.  Nick told him he would be outside with the car running;
waiting.  Nick fixed his clothes grabbing his jacket kissing Molly
and quickly left her office.  He ran down the corridor, and down the
stairs.  Nick unlocked the doors, and climbed in.  Nick quickly
started the engine placing his foot on the brake and placed the car
in drive waiting for Paul to arrive.
        A few moments passed, Nick heard the siren coming closer
from behind him.  The cruiser pulled up along side, Paul jumped out
and ran over to the caddy.  Paul opened his door, and closed it. 
Nick quickly pulled away, and headed for the Mills Elementary school.
Nick could see the terror in his face and eyes slowly building.
        When Nick and few cruisers slowly approached the school, all
they could see was pure black smoke and lights everywhere.  Paul felt
his heart stop; his breathing became erratic.  As they got closer;
they saw the bomb squad, ambulances all lined up and a dozen or so
fire trucks.  Nick pulled up where he could fit; Paul jumped out of
the car yelling Carla's name and Nick tried to stay close to him. 
Suddenly, a man's voice yelled, 'over here.'  Nick stopped dead in
his tracks, and ran into his direction Paul a foot or so behind. 
When Nick arrived; he stood very still and saw Carla lying on the
ground unconscious.  Two medics were trying to save her.  Paul
approached gasping at the sight; a tear or two flowing from his
painful eyes.  Nick held him back until the medic said it was safe.
        One medic stood to face Nick; saw Paul's face, "She's stable
now.  Is he the husband?"
        "Yes, Paul Coletti; they're engaged."  Nick told him.
        "I'm Ted.  Mr. Coletti, do you wish to ride with her?" he
asked.
        "Yes," Paul cried.
        "Hey, look at me.  Go with her, I'll meet you there, and
I'll finish up here.  Go on."  Nick told him.
        "Thanks man."  Paul whispered.
        "Go on."  Nick said.
        Paul left with the medics, Nick turned slowly to face the
school; or what's left of it.  He noticed Reese a few feet away
standing with some men wearing heavy protective gear and Kathy.  Nick
carefully approached standing by Reese with his hands in his pockets.
He saw two bodies covered with white sheets, and a black body bag
lying next to each one.  Nick sighed sadly, and shook his body in
fear.  Reese saw Nick, turned to face him directly; but noticed Paul
missing.
        "Where's Paul?"  Reese questioned.
        Nick exhaled, "With Carla, she was hurt.  These two?"
        Reese sighed, "We won't know for awhile.  We called the
principle to bring a list of the teachers, or maybe someone claiming
someone missing.  Until then unknown.  Allen's inside waiting to
explore; go join him.  All offices are involved with this one; Paul's
out."
        "I need his insight."  Nick said.
        "That's it."  Reese replied.
        "Thanks, later."  Nick said.
        Nick quietly left Reese's side slowly walking along what was
left of a sidewalk into the school.  Half the building was gone; the
rest was burned filled with smoke.  He pulled out his hanky from his
right back pocket, and covered up his mouth and nose.  Tons of debris
surrounded his feet, and small smoking pockets under the debris. 
Nick saw Allen searching Carla's classroom; everything in sight Nick
carefully walked in and stood by his side where her desk stood.  He
lightly tapped his shoulder to draw his attention.  Allen turned his
head slightly, and saw Nick's saddening face.  He stood, and faced
Nick directly.
        "Hey, man."  Allen said.
        "Hey.  What you got?"  Nick asked.
        "A sick person."  Allen answered, "How's Carla?"
        Nick sighed, "Not sure.  I sent Paul with her.  Lay it out."
        Allen scanned the room, "Well, a bomb, two dead, and one
hurt; possible revenge."
        "Agreed."  Nick said, "What kind?"
        "All right.  This is not the point of origin.  If you wanted
revenge, where would you put it?"  Allen replied.
        Nick hesitated, thought, "The basement."
        "Basement, let's go."  Allen said.
        They quickly left the classroom walking down the dark
corridor to the end.  Nick saw the door to his left; he used his
hanky to pull the chard door open, when the door opened the smell of
burned metal, wood, and ton of smoke came through.  They moved aside
until it cleared.  Allen took the lead with his flashlight; Nick held
his shirt and they slowly but carefully walked into the room.  The
room was completely black, and burned.  They slowly made it to the
other side, by the blown out black window.  Two men peeked in, and
told them to stay there; they're on their way in.  Allen slowly
scanned the room, and found the fuse box, or what's left.  They stood
in shock.
        "No basement, but I think we found the point of origin.  The
fuse box.  Here, hold this."  Allen said. 
         Nick took the flashlight held it on the fuse box while
Allen pulled his hanky.  He cautiously reached up, and grabbed the
side of the box.  He carefully opened it as the other men came in
with more light.  They added more light, and they saw what was left
of the bomb.  They saw burned wires; fused digital clock, and a metal
chard case.  They stood in horror.
        "Oh my, God.  The bomb; or what's left of it, thanks guys. 
Who are you?"  Allen asked.
        "I'm George Avery, head of the bomb squad.  My crew, Shan
Wyman, and Henry Towers.  You two."  George inquired.
        "I'm Allen Straton, FBI.  Nick Knight, Detective Metro
Homicide."  Allen announced.
        George sighed, "An amateur bomb; pipe mainly."
        "Yeah.  We'll need to take the whole box.  I want to see how
he wired it."  Allen requested.
        "All right.  You two go outside, in case it's not done. 
We'll send it to Forensics."  George replied.
        "Send it to Kathy Michaels, personally."  Allen requested.
        "Sure, okay."  George replied.
        Nick cleared his throat, "Meet at the station later for
round up.  We need to get him before he does it again."
        "Done."  George said, "Now go."
        Nick and Allen left them behind to do their job.  Nick led
the way outside where he saw Reese and Kathy waiting for them.  They
approached, and stood by Reese's side.
        "Well," Reese said.
        Nick sighed, "It was a pipe bomb in the fuse box.  The bomb
squad will send it to your lab.  Ryan can dust, and they will examine
it.  We'll do the round up later.  It also looks like revenge, and
Carla was the target."
        "I'll post someone at her door."  Allen said.
        Reese sighed angrily, "All right, you two team up.  You may
inform Paul, but he's off, O-F-F; the case.  It's too close to him. 
Got it."
        "Yeah," Nick said.
        "Okay, you two go see Paul and get a report on Carla.  Talk
to her, if she's up to it.  Kathy's lab."  Reese insisted.
        "I think I'll call Rubert in.  He's the best CSI in the
field.  We may need his talents."  Kathy suggested.
        "Get anyone that will help.  Let's go.  We need to stop this
before it gets out of hand."  Reese ordered.
        Nick looked to Allen, "Did you bring your car?"
        "No," Allen replied.
        "Let's go."  Nick said.
        Nick and Allen quickly left the scene slowly walking towards
Nick's car and Nick unlocked the doors.  They opened their door, and
they closed their door.  Nick reached into the backseat, and picked
up the file that Paul left behind.  He handed it to Allen to fill in
what they have so far.  Allen opened the file and saw what Paul had
written then looked to Nick slightly confused.
        "What is it?"  Nick asked.
        Allen, slightly confused, "He didn't write anything down."
        Nick sighed slightly, "When he heard it was Carla's school;
he got upset."
        "Understandable.  How did it begin?"  Allen asked, ready to
write.
        "Let's see.  Paul said Reese came to him with a note which
Kathy has.  That there was a bomb threat at the Mills Elementary
School at three o'clock.  He ran out of the building calling me and
came to the Gallery in Jack's cruiser.  I was outside waiting; he
jumped in, and drove there.  As we pulled up, black smoke and debris
everywhere.  Paul jumped out, I tried to follow; but heard a medic
yelling for a gurney.  I ran there; Paul followed; it was Carla.  I
sent him with her, and I went to Reese.  He told me you were inside. 
The rest you know."  Nick explained.
        Allen finished writing it all down, looked to Nick,
"Anything back on the note?"
        "There was no time; it happened so fast.  Rubert is an
excellent help."  Nick answered.
        Allen sighed, "Who's Rubert?"
        "His name is Rubert Degen, head of the CSI out in
California; Los Angeles I believe."  Nick replied.
        "Great.  Let's see Paul and Carla."  Allen recommended.
        Nick quickly started the engine, and drove to the St. Claire
Hospital.  He drove as quickly as he could without breaking the laws;
or the sound barrier.  Nick saw the hospital off to his left and
slowly drove into the parking lot.  He found an empty space near the
front door; he carefully rolled in and parked.  He turned the engine
off, and they climbed out.   He placed the keys into his right pant
pocket, and met Allen at his side of the car.  They slowly walked up
the path entering the hospital up to the front desk and asked for
Carla's room.  They were told fifth floor; room 502.
        Nick and Allen quietly walked down the corridor to the
elevators, and pushed the button.  The elevator doors slowly opened,
and they stepped in.  Allen pushed the number five button, and the
doors slowly closed.  The elevator quickly rode upward to the fifth
floor.  They quickly stepped out, and approached the nurse's station.
Allen was about to inquire Carla's room when Nick saw Paul at the end
of the hall leaning up against the wall, and his head buried into his
hands.  Nick tapped Allen; he saw him and they quietly walked towards
him.  Allen stood off to the side, and Nick stood directly in front
of Paul.  Nick gently reached up, and touched Paul's hands.  Paul
looked up, and saw Nick and Allen.  Nick saw the tears, and feared
the worst then Paul reached out to embrace Nick for comfort from his
friend.  Nick held him until he felt at ease then leaned back upon
the wall.
        Nick inhaled and cleared his throat, "Hey, what's going on?"
        Paul sniffed slightly, "When we arrived at the emergency
room, she flat-lined; but they got her back.  When she was stable;
they moved her up here.  She's stable with a broken arm, two ribs,
spleen swollen, and tubes everywhere."
        Nick exhaled, "Sorry man, but did she say anything at all?"
        "She hasn't woken up yet."  Paul answered.
        "Can I get you anything?"  Nick asked.
        Paul thought for the moment, "They will feed me; change of
clothes; easy stuff."
        Nick relaxed slightly, "Okay.  I'll send them over in the
morning.  Anything else?"
        "Not sure.  How's Molly?"  Paul asked.
        "She's fine."  Nick answered.
        "Good.  Made up."  Paul replied.
        "Oh yeah," Nick grinned.
        "Cool."  Paul uttered.
        Allen cleared his throat, "Let us know when she's up to
talking."
        "Yeah," Paul whispered.
        "Let's go see her, and get to work."  Nick said.
        "Done."  Allen replied.
        "You're off duty, and this case.  But we will keep you
posted."  Nick told him.
        "Thanks.  I would be no good to you."  Paul said.
        "You're the best.  You need to be with Carla.  I'll send
Molly in the morning with your stuff, and my phone is always on. 
Okay."  Nick replied.
        "Thanks Buddy.  Come on guys."  Paul said squeezing Nick's
upper arm warmly.
        Paul quietly led the way into Carla's room, before them they
saw her hooked up to many tubes and needles, a heart monitor, a cast
on her arm, and a few bruises.  Carla was unconscious and maybe
unaware of them.  Allen whispered, "Damn," while Nick's eyes filled
with sadness; a friend was hurt, and hurt badly.  Paul silently waved
them out into the corridor; but gave Carla a double look as he left.
        "Thanks, guys."  Paul said.
        "Okay, we need to go.  Call me, okay."  Nick said firmly.
        "I will, thanks."  Paul replied.
        Nick and Allen slowly left Paul alone with Carla.  They rode
down in the elevator walking out of the hospital and stood upon the
path for a moment then took in a deep breath of fresh air.  They
strolled down the path over to Nick's car, and Nick unlocked the
doors.  They closed their door, and exhaled quietly.  They sat there
for a moment to refocus themselves onto the case at hand.  Allen
lightly clapped his hands together to draw Nick's attention towards
him.
        "Hey, where to?"  Allen inquired.
        Nick hesitated, "Okay, let's start with Kathy, and I need to
stop by the Gallery to tell Molly.  The Raven later."
        "Sounds like a plan.  Where's Michael and Rose?"  Allen asked.
        "Not sure, it's been a week since I've heard from them. 
Call them later.  Let's go."  Nick replied.
        Nick pulled his keys out from his right pant pocket, and
started the engine.  He slowly backed out driving through the parking
lot into traffic and headed for the Forensics building.  Nick spotted
the building in the distance to the left.  He carefully pulled over,
and parked along the curb.  Nick turned the engine off, and they
climbed out.  They closed their door, and walked up the stairs
inside.  They quietly entered the lab, and saw Kathy and Rubert
working closely at one slab while George and Ryan were at the other. 
Nick and Allen quietly walked up to Kathy, Allen tapped her waist and
she turned to kiss him.
        "Hey, guys, how's Paul and Carla?"  Kathy inquired, concerned.
        Nick sighed, "Paul's okay, but upset.  Carla's still
unconscious with a broken arm and two ribs.  Her spleen is swollen,
and a few bruises.  She's hooked up to a lot of tubes and a heart
monitor."
        Kathy gasped at the picture she saw in her mind, "Oh my,
God, poor girl."
        "You okay?"  Allen inquired.
        "I'm okay, honey."  Kathy replied.
        "Are you up to the story telling of our victims?"  Allen
asked.
        "Yeah, but stay close by."  Kathy requested.
        "Always."  Allen replied warmly.
        Kathy inhaled then exhaled clearing her throat, "Okay.  No
names yet, but we have one male, and one female.  Both bodies burned
about 93 percent.  Right now, no signs of foul play; wrong place,
wrong time."
        "What kind of bomb?"  Nick asked.
        George cleared his throat, "After you two left, we removed
the fuse box and part of the wall.  So far, we know it was a pipe
bomb with a digital timer, and amateur made."
        "How can you tell?"  Allen asked.
        "The person left part of the serial number on the pipe. 
Hopefully, we can trace it."  George answered.
        "The FBI is open to you, if you need anything.  Okay." 
Allen told them.
        "Thanks."  George replied.
        Nick sighed loudly, "Do we know anything else?"
        George turned to face him, "Not yet.  I have a crew at the
school examining everything.  No ID yet, and I will run those partial
numbers through to see what pops up.  You're friend Carla is our only
key right now."
        "I sent someone to watch her; undercover, so keep it here. 
Don't tell Paul, he's upset enough and he may spill it."  Allen
requested.
        "Done."  Nick agreed, "All right, let's roll; call us if you
find anything else." he added firmly.
        "All right."  Kathy whispered.
        Allen gave Kathy a quick kiss upon her cheek, and followed
Nick out of the lab.  They walked down the stairs, and Nick unlocked
the doors.  They opened their door, and they closed them.  Nick
pulled his key out from his left pant pocket, and started the engine.
Nick carefully pulled away from the curb, and quickly drove to the
Gallery to see Molly.
        Nick noticed the Gallery in the distance carefully pulling
over and parked along the curb.  He turned the engine off, and they
opened their door.  Allen walked around, and leaned upon the hood
with Nick directly in front of him.  Nick stared at the building, and
Allen cleared his throat.
        "I'll wait out here, you go ahead."  Allen quietly suggested.
        Nick exhaled, looked to Allen's face, "Are you sure?"
        "Yeah.  You two need to be alone.  I'll come in five
minutes.  What's the call letters for us again?"  Allen replied.
        Nick licked his dry lips, "81 Kilo, and thanks."
        "Cool.  Don't worry."  Allen replied.
        Nick grinned slightly walking up the stairs, and strolled
down the hall.  He saw Molly's door wide open approached quietly, and
stood in the doorway.  Molly turned slightly away from her desk, and
saw the sadness in his eyes.  She placed the papers down on her desk,
and extended her arms to embrace him as he stumbled into her arms. 
Nick melted into her loving arms, and exhaled quietly.  Molly warmly
stroked the back of his head, and he leaned up to see her loving face.
        "Darling, what's happened?"  Molly asked.
        "There was an explosion at the Mills Elementary School." 
Nick said.
        "Carla's school."  Molly whispered.
        "She was hurt; she's in the hospital with Paul.  Allen and I
have teamed up.  But two people did die there.  I'll tell LaCroix
later."  Nick informed her.
        "Poor Paul.  What can I do to help?"  Molly offered.
        "Bring him some stuff in the morning; clothes, toothbrush,
etc.  Stay close."  Nick replied.
        "Done.  Call me if you need anything."  Molly replied.
        "Thanks love."  Nick whispered.
        "Knock, knock.  Sorry to intrude; but they want us at the
school."  Allen said clearing his throat, "Hi Molly."
        "Hi, Allen.  Go ahead; I'll handle the rest."  Molly said.
        "Love you."  Nick whispered kissing her forehead.
        "Love you, too."  Molly said with a warm smile.
        Nick gave Molly one last kiss upon her ruby red lips
following Allen down the hall, and out to the caddy.  They opened
their door, and climbed in.  Nick started the engine, and carefully
pulled away from the curb.
        
        Downtown near the Raven, Jamie entered a small store to do
some light shopping.  She poked around, and placing items into her
basket for the club.  Just as Jamie reached for a bottle of white
wine, two men came in wearing masks, carrying guns and telling
everyone to hit the floor.  The alarm sounded, the owner cleaned out
his register and handed the money to them.  One guy took careful aim,
and shot the owner in the chest.  He flew backwards into the shelves,
and fell forward dead.  Jamie let out a slight scream, and he turned
towards her direction.  They stared at each other for a moment, but
he fled the store as he heard the sirens approaching.  Jamie noticed
the tattoo on his left hand.
        About five minutes later, Nick and Allen came into the store
with about six officers.  They looked around and saw the owner on the
floor then Jamie saw Nick.  She slowly stood up, and sniffed her
tears as she called to him.  Nick quickly turned in her direction,
and saw the fright in her eyes then ran to her.  Jamie clasped into
Nick's arms, and she shook all over.  She cried and sobbed
erratically.  Nick held her while Allen continued investigating the
scene.  Nick slowly reached into his back right pocket, and pulled
out his hanky then stepped back.  He wiped her eyes, and she blew her
nose.  She held the hanky while Nick tried to calm her down.
        "Jamie, Jamie, its okay; you're safe."  Nick said calmly.
        "I was so scared.  Where's Lucien?"  Jamie expressed
terrified.
        "He's at the Raven; I'll take you there in a minute.  What
happened?"  Nick inquired.
        Jamie sniffed her tears trying to calm down, "I was shopping
for the club, two men came in, and they robbed and killed him.  I
screamed; he aimed for me, and he heard the sirens then they ran out."
        "It's all right.  Did you see them?"  Nick questioned.
        Jamie exhaled, "No, but the guy with the gun had a small
tattoo on his left hand.  It looked like a red heart with a
lightening bolt through it, and two letters."
        "Great job.  Anything else."  Nick inquired.
        Jamie began to cry again, "No, I need Lucien, please
Nicholas."
        "Okay.  Allen got a minute."  Nick requested.
        Allen walked over towards Nick, "Yeah,"
        "Run down."  Nick said.
        "The usual.  Jamie's the only witness."  Allen implied.
        "Damn.  All right, the Raven's only a few buildings down on
the right.  I'll take her to Lucien; meet me there."  Nick requested
handing him the keys, "Let's go Jamie."
        Allen returned to the crime scene, and Nick walked Jamie
down to the Raven holding her as close as possible to his side to
protect her.  They approached the front door, and Nick unlocked the
door with his key.  Scott noticed them sensing trouble, and LaCroix
peeked in from the back room.  He senses Jamie's terror stepped out
to take her, and Jamie ran into his loving arms.  Nick stood by them,
and Scott stood along the other side.  LaCroix gently kissed the top
of her head, and to his son for answers.
        "What's happened?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "A lot.  One, Carla was hurt in an explosion at her school. 
She's alive; Paul's with her.  Two, the store that Jamie was shopping
at; was robbed and the owner killed.  Jamie's the only witness." 
Nick said exhausted.
        "Oh my…"  LaCroix whispered.
        "I'll come by later to talk."  Nick suggested.
        "Please do.  How was your trip?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "Heaven, more later.  I need to finish this up first at the
station."  Nick told him, "Calm her down.  I need to talk to her
more."
        "All right, then the journals."  LaCroix replied.
        "Oh yeah.  Done."  Nick said giving LaCroix a warm embrace
upon his upper arm with his hand.
        Nick gently stroked Jamie's upper back, and walked up the
stairs to Allen outside.  He saw Allen parked along the curb, and
sitting in the passenger seat patiently waiting for him.  Nick
strolled to the driver's side, and opened his door.  He climbed in,
and paused for a moment.  Allen noticed the silence.
        "Hey, man, spill it."  Allen said directly.
        Nick exhaled, "The bomb at the school, and now this.  My gut
says huge trouble."
        "Connection?" Allen queried.
        "Maybe.  Let's head back to the station.  Do up the
paperwork; I want to talk to Jamie some more, and be home for dinner
with Molly."  Nick said.
        "Cool.  Any word on Michael and Rose yet?"  Allen asked.
        "None yet," Nick answered.
        "Odd.  Should we file a missing persons report?"  Allen
suggested.
        Nick snickered, "No.  Their fine.  I left a message
everywhere; they'll call.  Let's roll."
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang; he reached into his left
jacket pocket and pushed the button, "Knight,"
        "Detective, it's Rubert.  Kathy asked me to call you, and
ask for you and Allen to stop in."  Rubert said.
        "On our way, thanks."  Nick said pushing the button, and
placed the phone back into his pocket.
        "Who was that?"  Allen asked.
        "Rubert; they want us to stop by."  Nick told him.
        "Cool."  Allen replied eagerly.
        "Down boy."  Nick whispered.
        "After you."  Allen said being wise.
        "No way, enough."  Nick said to end the sex talk.
        Nick carefully pulled away from the curb, and drove quickly
to the Forensics building.  Nick spotted it in the distance, and
carefully pulled over parking along the curb.  He turned the engine
off, and they climbed out.  They strolled across the sidewalk, and
climbed the stairs inside of the building.
        They quickly stood by the door, and saw Rubert examining the
male body while Kathy examined the female.  They slowly walked in,
and Allen placed his hand upon her upper arm.  She slowly turned her
head to face Allen.  Allen saw the stress and sadness, and exhaustion
in her eyes.  Allen lovingly placed his arm around her waist to
comfort her.
        "You okay?"  Allen inquired.
        "No, but that helps."  Michaels replied, "How's Carla?"
        "She's all right, still sleeping.  What you got?"  Nick
answered inquiring for the information.
        "Thanks.  Okay, we have this file for you.  Let's start with
the male; Rubert."  Michaels said giving him the floor.
        "All right, all we have is this.  His name was, Paul Davis,
thirty-three years old, single, and died from multiple burns." 
Rubert reported.
        "No family."  Nick questioned.
        "Don't know yet.  We posted it; we'll see.  He was a teacher
at the school."  Rubert added.
        "Okay Kathy; you're turn."  Allen said calmly.
        Michaels cleared her throat, and looked to Allen, "Okay. 
She was, Laura Johnson, twenty-one years old, and a teacher's aide. 
She was engaged to be married next month.  The boyfriend was here."
        "Man that sucks."  Allen uttered.
        "So true," Nick agreed.  "Anything else?"
        Rubert exhaled, "Sadly, if there was; it burned up."
        "We'll run the names, and get back to you.  Thanks for the
file."  Nick said.
        "Keep me posted on Carla, and I'll see you in an hour or
so."  Kathy replied.
        "Definitely.  Later love."  Allen said giving her a quick
kiss upon her soft cheek.
        Nick and Allen quickly left the lab with Allen carrying the
file, and left them behind to finish up with the victims.  They
exited the building walking down the stairs, and over to the caddy. 
Nick unlocked the doors, and they climbed in.  They closed their
door, and Nick started the engine.  He quickly drove a few feet down
the road to the police station.  Nick pulled up along the curb; but
Allen noticed his watch and it was getting late.
        "Hey, man, its getting late.  I'll run this, and see you
about eight.  Go see Lucien and Jamie, and roll with Molly."  Allen
suggested.
        "Are you sure?"  Nick asked.
        "Yeah.  In the morning we'll check out Carla.  Go on." 
Allen insisted.
        "Thanks man.  I'll have coffee ready."  Nick said.
        "Done.  Later."  Allen said opening his door then closed it.
        Allen walked up the few steps inside, and Nick pulled away
driving to the Raven downtown.  Meanwhile LaCroix had finished wiping
down the bar, and tossed the rag aside leaving Scott in charge. 
LaCroix strolled into the backroom and up the few steps into his
room.  He saw Jamie sitting on the couch reading a book, and enjoying
a small glass of wine.  He closed the door, and quietly approached
her.  LaCroix leaned over placing a kiss upon the back of her neck. 
She crinkled her shoulders upward, and her head tilted back slightly
to see his eyes.  LaCroix grinned, and lightly kissed her nose.
        "Hi."  Jamie said warmly.
        "How are you now?"  LaCroix asked.
        Jamie lightly moaned, "Better, now that you're here."
        LaCroix moved around the couch, and sat along the edge by
Jamie.  He placed one hand upon her upper arm, and stroked her warm
cheek with the other.  Jamie closed her book placed it on the floor,
and she placed her hand upon his thigh.  LaCroix glanced at her hand,
and at her devilish grin with that sparkle in her eyes.
        "Anything else I can do for you?"  LaCroix inquiring her
motive.
        Jamie inhaled leaned slightly upward, "Guess."
        "My pleasure."  LaCroix said eagerly.
        Jamie slowly moved her hand to his crotch, and slowly
massaged him.  He leaned over, and kissed her passionately.  She laid
her head back onto the couch.  LaCroix swung his body up and over
Jamie, and he slowly unzipped his fly when a knock echoed from the
door.  Nick saw them, and quickly turned around.  LaCroix quickly
fixed his pants sitting down in the corner of the couch trying to
hide his arousal.  Jamie stood up and fixed her clothes then sat down
by LaCroix trying to relax.
        "Nicholas, come sit down."  LaCroix said.
        "I'm sorry."  Nick apologized blushing.
        "It's all right.  New world to get use to, now in reverse." 
LaCroix said to calm him.
        "What's up?" Jamie said then closed her eyes from her choice
of words.
        "Uhm---I came by to see you remembered anything else."  Nick
said feeling uneasy.
        "He had a tattoo on his left hand; a red heart with the
lightening bolt, and two letters under it.  I couldn't see those. 
Brown hair and eyes.  He also had another tattoo on his upper left
arm, but can't remember right now."  Jamie answered.
        Nick noticed LaCroix a little shaky so he stood up, and
grinned, "Okay, thanks.  I'm leaving now, and I will do better in the
future.  See you later."
        Jamie felt LaCroix shaking; she turned to face him and he
had a painful look upon his face.
        "Lucien, what is it?"  Jamie inquired concerned.
        "I actually feel pain, discomfort and I'm still…"  LaCroix
expressed nervous and scared.
        "Say no more, I'll fix you up."  Jamie said.
        Jamie quickly unbuckled and unzipped his pants.  LaCroix
moved them slightly down his thighs.  Jamie sat upon his lap until he
was deep inside of her.  She slowly moved with him, and they made
love on the couch.  Suddenly, LaCroix let out a moan of relief
grabbing hold of Jamie's waist, and buried his face into her soft
breasts.  Jamie exhaled heavily kissing his head, and they held each
other tight.  Jamie gave him a few to calm his breathing, and LaCroix
laid his head back onto the back of the couch.  Jamie, sweaty and
breathing erratic, looked into his eyes.  She touched his face with
her warm hands, and felt his body.  A little hotter than it should be
for a vampire.
        "Lucien; tell me right now.  What you felt?"  Jamie insisted.
        "When Nicholas came in; I was aroused the whole time.  My
body felt hot, pain, and anxiety.  Then when he left and we could
continue; there was an uncomfortable surge raging in me; I had no
control then I---I felt I lost everything.  The heat, the pain, and
the anxiety suddenly disappeared."  LaCroix told her.
        "Lucien, darling."  Jamie replied with a slight giggle,
"That's call stopping at the worst moment.  Sadly, it won't be the
last, but you do lose control.  It's like the need for blood.  You're
hunger is so strong; nothing else matters until you have it to make
the urge calm, and the pain gone.  You're almost there."  Jamie
explained with tears in her eyes.
        "Where?"  LaCroix asked.
        "You're almost at your full sexual peak.  The most human
sensation ever."  Jamie answered.
        "This wasn't it?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "Almost.  You'll know when it does, and when you do; share
it with me."  Jamie requested.
        "Always, I love you."  LaCroix whispered.
        "I love you, too."  Jamie said, "Now, let's shower, and join
Scott in the club."
        "Lead on."  LaCroix said.
        Jamie carefully climbed off LaCroix's lap; he noticed his
clothes were slightly wet and grabbing hold of them as he stood up. 
LaCroix slightly puzzled by the wetness he followed Jamie into the
bathroom for a quick shower, and perhaps more love.
        
        Nick just entered the loft, and saw Molly sitting on the
couch sipping a glass of wine reading a book like Jamie's.  The door
closed automatically behind him with a slight bang startled Molly,
and she looked over to see his stressful face.  Nick slowly
approached her, and swung her legs down so Nick could sit down by her
side.  Molly placed her book and glass down on the coffee table then
leaned into the couch to give him her full undivided attention.
        "Okay, darling; spill the whole day."  Molly insisted.
        Nick laid his head back, exhaled loudly, "Well, you know
about the school.  After that; Forensics identified the victims then
Jamie got caught in a robbery at the convenient store near the Raven.
She was pretty shaken up, and I took her to Lucien.  I took Allen
back to the station, and I returned to the Raven to talk to Jamie,
and I caught them on the couch."
        "How embarrassing for Lucien."  Molly said slightly laughing.
        "Yeah, so I couldn't talk long because LaCroix looked like
he was in pain, so I left."  Nick said.
        "I'm sure he's fine, now."  Molly replied, "What a bad day;
painful and embarrassing as well.  Well, I made your favorite dish,
favorite wine and best of all; your favorite dessert."
        Nick smiled, "Alfredo, Carpi, and apple pie."
        "Apple pie," Molly said, slightly confused.
        "Yeah, dessert," Nick said smiling.
        Molly slapped his upper arm lightly, "If that's what you
want; no problem."
        "I'm kidding, I want you."  Nick replied.
        "Dinner first; you will need the energy." Molly told him,
smiling.
        "Uh-oh," Nick mumbled.
        Molly slowly stood up extending her hands to him, and he
placed his into hers.  They strolled into the dining room, and Nick
pulled out her chair.  He sat down next to her, and they warmly
enjoyed a hot meal and chilled wine.  They raised their glasses
clanging them together for a toast, and enjoyed the atmosphere for
about an hour.
        Nick and Molly cleared off the table; Nick blew out the
candles while Molly grabbed the wine bottle and glasses.  Nick loaded
up the dishwasher, and followed Molly up the stairs down to their
bedroom.  Nick makes a quick stop in the bathroom, a few moments
passed a flush echoed quietly, and he exited wearing his lounge
pants.  Molly set the bottle of wine and glasses down on Nick's
nightstand, and she took a turn in the bathroom.  Molly exited the
bathroom wearing a very short black lacey nighty with spaghetti
straps.  She saw Nick lying on the bed holding the wine bottle so she
crawled across the bed like a cat, and lay beside him.  She began to
stroke his chest, massage his nipples and looked up to his face. 
Nick was sound asleep.
        Molly laughed slightly gently pulling the bottle out from
his fingers, and placed it on his nightstand.  She leaned down at the
foot of the bed pulling up the blankets, and covered Nick then
herself.  Molly snuggled up next to Nick, and slowly drifted off to a
deep peaceful sleep.
        
        The night hours slowly passed into early morning.  Molly
woke up when Nick rolled over, and tapped her stomach.  She looked
over; he was sleeping so peacefully, but the alarm hadn't gone off
yet.  She leaned over his body turning the alarm off, and leaned back
beside Nick.  Molly kissed his lips; no reaction.  She thought for
the moment; she kissed his chest; still no reaction.  Molly's amazed
how sound asleep he was.  She seductively kissed him just below his
bellybutton; he moved slightly.  Molly sensed a set-up; she slowly
pulled the string on his pants, and slightly tugged at him; she
noticed the smile.  Molly quickly without warning, moved down, and
kissed his inner right thigh.  Which tickled him; he closed his
thighs together, laughed and rolled Molly onto her back.  Nick
climbed on top of her.
        "Morning," Molly said.
        "Hi!"  Nick said.
        "Are you still tired?"  Molly inquired.
        "Not any more," Nick replied.
        "Now what?"  Molly hinted.
        Nick gave his clock a quick glance noticing it was eight
o'clock.  He leaned up looked to Molly, "I'm late; Allen will be here
in thirty minutes.  Got to go."
        "Okay.  I'll cook breakfast; I don't go in until ten, and
you shower."  Molly said.
        "You don't mind?"  Nick questioned.
        "No, but you will owe me two."  Molly said grinning.
        "You're on.  Love you tons."  Nick said kissing her
passionately.
        "Get going.  Love you, too darling."  Molly said giving him
a slight push upon his stomach.
        Nick gave her a quick kiss, and stood up off the bed.  He
walked into the bathroom to get cleaned up while Molly strolled
downstairs to prepare a breakfast for Nick and Allen.  About twenty
minutes later, Nick came down the stairs all groomed and ready.  He
saw Molly just finishing the coffee and eggs.  He strolled up behind
her, and wrapped his arms completely around her with a slight
squeeze.  Molly turned around kissing him passionately, and he gave
her a loving smile.
        "Hi, uh-oh."  Nick whispered.
        "Uh-oh, what?"  Molly asked.
        "Uh-oh, and Allen's due here in two seconds."  Nick replied.
        "Oh, that uh-oh.  Sorry, it's my turn to shower.  Maybe
lunch."  Molly implied.
        "I'll try."  Nick said.
        Before Molly could reply, a knock echoed from the door and
Allen walked in.  Allen waved to Nick as he returned the wave, and
Molly reached up kissed Nick then gave a slight pinch to his butt. 
Nick shyly smiled, and watched Molly walk up the stairs then vanish. 
Allen strolled into the kitchen noticed the trance, and snapped his
fingers in front of Nick's eyes.
        "What?"  Nick asked.
        "Later, come on."  Allen replied.
        "Molly made breakfast, and coffee for us.  Let's sit down." 
Nick said with a slight stutter.
        "All right, sit and spill it.  Where's that brain?"  Allen
asked.
        Nick and Allen sat down next to each other, Nick poured the
coffee, and Allen poured the cream.  They each took a sip, and
exhaled.  Allen looked to Nick, very serious and knocked on the table.
        "Nick, my man."  Allen started.
        "What?"  Nick asked.
        "What's wrong?"  Allen inquired.
        Nick hesitated, "We've been back for two days, and something
always interrupts us when we…"  Nick briefed him, "I now know how
Lucien felt when I showed up unannounced."
        "Is that all," Allen said with a slight chuckle.
        "Thanks."  Nick replied, scoffed a little.
        "Catch up later.  Time to work; sadly.  We need to see if
Carla's awake.  Check out that tattoo, and meet up with the bomb
squad.  Also, I want to poke at the school without them there." 
Allen recited the list.
        "Time for lunch."  Nick inquired.
        "Maybe.  Let's go, Carla first."  Allen said eagerly.
        Nick picked up the dishes, and strolled into the kitchen
with Allen behind him carrying the rest.  They placed everything into
the dishwasher; Nick walked over to the small table by the couch and
picked up his things.  Allen led the way to the door with Nick, and
rode down in the elevator to Nick's car.  Nick unlocked the doors,
and they climbed in.  They closed their door, and Nick started the
engine.  Nick backed up and drove out of the lot heading for the
hospital.
        Nick noticed the hospital in the distance, and drove into
the parking lot.  He found a free spot near the front door, and
parked it in the space.  He turned the engine off, and they opened
their door.  They climbed out, and strolled up the path to the front
door which Allen opened.  They entered the building, and strolled
down the hall to the elevator.  Nick pushed the button, and the doors
slowly opened.  They carefully stepped in, and Nick pushed the number
five button then doors closed.  The elevator quickly rode upward to
the fifth floor, and stopped.  The doors slowly opened, and they
stepped out then walked down the corridor until they saw the guard
sitting out front.  They approached the guard flashing their badges,
and opened the door to Carla's room.
        
        The door slowly opened, and they saw Paul and Carla having a
soft conversation holding hands.  They walked over, Allen stood at
the foot of the bed and Nick gave Paul a friendly hug with a slight
tap to his upper back.  Nick turned and looked to Carla.
        "Hey, you look good."  Nick said.
        "Thanks.  I've been better."  Carla whispered.
        Paul touched Nick's upper arm, "Anything yet?"
        "All we know is, it was pipe bomb, and usually means
personal.  Any ideas?  Do you remember anything?"  Allen questioned.
        Carla paused a moment, "Adam,"
        "Who's Adam?"  Nick asked.
        Carla shifted her body a little, "My aide at the school.  He
was upset that I wasn't home for his call, and…" she stopped, "Oh my,
God, Nick."
        Paul moved to Carla's side to comfort her, "It's all right. 
Later guys, please."
        "All right, but just one question.  Does he have a tattoo?" 
Allen asked.
        "Yeah, his hand; a red circle with a yellow lightening
bolt."  Carla described.
        "Okay, thanks.  Get some rest."  Nick said, "Molly will be
by with your stuff."
        "Thanks.  How goes the wedding plans."  Paul inquired.
        "Haven't had the time."  Nick answered.
        "It's in a few months.  Don't wait too long."  Paul said.
        "I won't.  Talk later."  Nick said.
        Nick and Allen both grinned, and smiled as they left the
room.  They walked down the corridor to the elevator.  Allen pushed
the button, and the doors opened with Molly inside.  Allen reached
over and took the keys leaving Nick with Molly.  Nick and Molly
warmly embraced each other, and kissed each other seductively.
        "Oh, darling, I needed that."  Molly said.
        "Same here and more.  I'm still trying for lunch.  You
okay?"  Nick asked concerned.
        "A little frustrated, but I'm okay.  Don't worry, we have
tonight."  Molly said.
        "If I can last that long.  We'll squeeze it in somewhere. 
Go see Carla, and we'll talk later.  Love you."  Nick said.
        "Love you, too.  Uh-oh."  Molly whispered in his ear.
        "Same here.  Later."  Nick smiled back.
        As Molly strolled down the hall, Nick pushed the button and
the doors opened.  Nick stepped in, and the doors closed.  He pushed
the lobby button, and the elevator rode downward to the first floor. 
The doors opened, and walked down the corridor.  He saw Allen waiting
inside the car on the passenger side.  Nick opened the door and
climbed in.  Nick slowly pulled away from the path, and drove to the
temporary Mills Elementary School building next to the old one.
        Nick drove into the parking lot, and found a spot near the
front entrance.  He drove in and parked.  He turned the engine off,
and climbed out.  They walked along the sidewalk up the path, and
Allen opened the door.  They entered the school, and approached the
woman standing behind a desk.  They each flashed their badges, and
requested the principles presence.
        A few moments later, a stern man approached them and shook
hands with them.  He stood about six feet, and gray haired with green
eyes.  They displayed their badges then placed them into their
pockets.
        "I'm Detective Nick Knight, and this is Allen Straton of the
FBI.  May we talk somewhere private?"  Nick requested.
        "Mr. David Wilkins.  Call me Dave.  We can go to my office;
follow me."  Dave suggested, "Hold all calls."
        David led the way with Nick and Allen close behind into his
office at the end of the hall.  David opened his door for them, and
he moved around his desk then they all sat down.  David leaned upon
his desk, and exhaled.
        "What can I do for you?"  David asked.
        "What can you tell us about Carla's aide; Adam?"  Nick asked.
        "No last name?"  David asked.
        "No."  Nick answered.
        David paused a few, "Hold on."
        David turned slightly to face his computer typing his name,
and position at the school.  The computer hesitated a second, and a
file appeared on the screen.  He took a moment to read it then faced
Nick and Allen.
        "All right, it's printing out for you.  His name is Adam
Kulas, teacher's aide, and Carla's.  He's five foot six, brown hair
and eyes.  He's been with us two years.  I haven't seen him since the
explosion."  David read to them.
        "Is there an address on him?"  Allen questioned.
        "It's in the file.  You know who might know more, the
guidance counselor; Erik Jenson.  Here's your copy."  David said.
        "Thank you.  Is Mr. Jenson here?"  Allen asked.
        "Yeah, I'll take you to him.  The two teachers that died;
were they identified?"  David asked.
        "Yes, Paul Davis and Laura Johnson."  Nick told him, "Laura
was an aide as well."
        "So horrible.  Thanks.  Let me take you to his office." 
David recommended.
        David stood up walked around his desk, and escorted Nick and
Allen into the hallway.  They walked down the small hallway to the
second door on their right, and David knocked.  David slowly opened
the door excusing himself; and let Nick and Allen enter the office.
        "Erik Jenson, Detective Nick Knight, and Allen Straton of
the FBI.  They want to know about Adam Kulas.  See if you can help,
and we'll discuss the two who died privately.  Good luck gentlemen." 
David said.
        "Thank you."  Allen uttered.
        "Have a seat, and how can I help you."  Erik inquired.
        "Whatever you can tell us about him."  Nick answered.
        "Let's see, let's bring up his file.  Here we go.  Oh yes,
he was an emotional person, no family to speak of."  Erik read to
them.
        "Any trouble."  Allen inquired.
        "Nothing major.  He had a crush on another aide, but she
rejected him.  He also said, 'her loss; he had someone else.'  Now
usually, this means in medical terms; he must have been rejected by
his mother, a sister, or an aunt.  He now sees all women that way. 
I'm not a doctor, but it does fit the profile."  Erik briefed them.
        "I see.  Any name on the aide?"  Nick asked.
        "Laura."  Erik answered quickly.
        "Sadly, she was one who died."  Allen said.
        "I suggest you seek medical help with this one.  If he did
this, Laura died, and his other interest could be next; if she
rejects him."  Erik explained.
        "She's in the hospital."  Nick said.
        "All I can say to you is; he could try again, but use a
different weapon."  Erik said very concerned.
        "Thanks Erik; we'll be in touch.  Here's my card if you
think of anything else."  Nick requested.
        "I will good luck."  Erik said standing up as they left his
office.
        They strolled down the hall to the exit, and walked outside.
They walked over to the caddy, Nick unlocked the doors and they
climbed in.  Nick placed the key into the ignition starting the
engine, and paused slightly.  Allen looked over to Nick saw the
frustration on his face.
        "Hey, man, you okay?"  Allen inquired.
        "I'm fine.  Let's head for the station, and run this name. 
Let's see what pops up."  Nick suggested.
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang, and reached into his
pocket to pull it out.  He pushed the button and the phone to his ear.
        "Knight," Nick announced.
        "Hey, darling."  Molly said.
        "Oh, honey, I won't make lunch today.  Let's try for
dinner."  Nick said quickly.
        "Okay, you're on."  Molly said.
        "What would you like for dinner?"  Molly asked.
        "Just you."  Nick answered, "Got to go, love you."
        "Love you, too.  Done."  Molly replied.
        Nick hung up the cell phone, and placed into his pocket.  He
put the car in drive and quickly drove to the station.  Allen kept an
eye on Nick where he was stressed and frustrated; job and personal
wise.
        Nick spotted the station to his left, and quickly pulled up
along the curb then parked.  He turned the engine off, and they
opened their door.  They climbed out, and quickly ran up the stairs
inside.  They strolled down to Nick's desk, and Allen pulled a chair
to sit next to Nick.  Nick turned his computer on to warm it up, and
Reese caught a glimpse of them then exited his office to join in.
        "Hey, gentlemen; what you got so far?"  Reese asked.
        "Hey, Cap."  Nick said to greet him.
        "Uhm, we have a theory running; nothing solid yet.  The two
dead were identified as Paul Davis, and Laura Johnson.  A teacher;
and teacher's aide.  The man we're looking at is Adam Kulas.  The
school counselor said he's emotionally unstable."  Allen explained.
        "Great.  Did he do this?"  Reese asked.
        "Not sure; but it looks like it at the moment.  The
counselor said he had a crush on Laura, she rejected him.  He moved
onto Carla, and the tale continues."  Allen explained further.
        "Damn."  Reese said.
        "Allen, look.  He was brought up on harassment charges at
another school; but they dropped it if he left."  Nick read it to
them.
        "He's here now, and killing.  Find him fast."  Reese said.
        "Trying," Allen replied.
        "I know; I'm just as frustrated.  Sorry guys.  Keep me
posted."  Reese expressed.
        "No problem Cap."  Nick said.
        Reese slowly walked away, and returned to his office.  Nick
leaned back into his chair, and rubbed his stressed face sighing
loudly.
        Allen clapped his hands firmly, "All right Buddy, time to
talk to Adam's family, but one stop on the way.  I'm driving.  Hand
them over."
        "Why?"  Nick asked.
        "Trust me."  Allen answered.
        Nick handed him the keys, "Always."
        "Let's go."  Allen said standing up holding the folder.
        Nick turned his computer off, and followed Allen out of the
building.  Allen unlocked the doors, and they climbed out.  Allen
placed the file into the backseat, and started the engine.  He
carefully pulled away from the curb.  Allen drove the roads that led
to the Gallery; Nick was slightly confused, but remained quiet.
        Allen saw the Gallery pulled up along the curb, and parked. 
He turned towards Nick, and saw the confusion in his eyes.  Allen
cleared his throat, and stared at him directly.
        "What this?"  Nick asked.
        "This is your lunch.  You have an hour to enjoy it.  Don't
waste it."  Allen said.
        "But…"  Nick said, puzzled.
        "It's been how many days.  You're nuts, and you're going to
explode.  Give her a kiss for me."  Allen said smiling.
        "I owe you."  Nick said grinning.
        Nick quickly opened his door, and climbed out.  Nick watched
Allen drive off, and he ran up the stairs walking towards Molly's
office.  He lightly knocked on the door, and opened it.  He closed
then locked the door behind him, and saw Molly.  She dropped her book
to the floor ran into his arms, and kissed him seductively.  Nick
warmly rubbed her body with heavy breathing, and pulled his head back
to see her eyes.
        "Nick."  Molly said erratically.
        "I have an hour."  Nick said, "Please, I need to…"
        "I know, its okay; me too."  Molly said.
        "I'm so hot; I'm so out of control; I'm so…"  Nick said
shaking.
        "I know, come on."  Molly said.
        Molly backed up to her desk slipping her underwear off, and
sat down on her desk.  Nick approached her; she unbuckled his belt,
and unzipped his fly.  She felt his heat, and massaged him firmly. 
Nick lay upon her, and they made love.  They moaned and groaned;
moved to each others passion.  Nick moved more and more; deeper and
deeper he went.  Nick felt a sudden surge; the out of control surge;
he whispered, 'I can't hold it…' to Molly.  She whispered to him,
'don't.'  Nick went as deep as he could; his heat exploded.  Nick
held Molly as tight as he could as though he was falling.  Molly let
out a loud moan, and held on just as tight.
        "It's all right honey."  Molly whispered.
        "I can't.  I need to again."  Nick replied breathing very
heavy.
        "It's all right go ahead.  Do what you need to do.  Please,
again."  Molly said giving into Nick's desire.
        Nick slowly moved kissing Molly warmly, and he felt his
arousal once more.  But this time it would happen a little faster. 
The more he moved the more aroused he became, and Molly holding onto
him with every move.  Suddenly, Nick moaned and exhaled then felt his
heat once again.  He lay still upon Molly while she rubbed his back. 
He exhaled a few more breathes, and Molly calmed his body heat down,
and Nick felt himself cooling down.  Molly jumped slightly as he
exited her body.  Molly helped Nick stand up, held him for he was
still shaking.
        Molly reached over into the chair, and removed the towel she
had lying there.  She helped Nick clean up, and tossed it behind her.
Molly looked up, and saw the glow in Nick's eyes.  She smiled warmly
and squeezed his waist a touch.  Nick slowly stroked her hair, and
relaxed his breathing.
        "You okay?"  Molly asked slightly hesitant.
        "Yes, I have never felt that before.  I'm sorry."  Nick
replied.
        "For what?"  Molly asked looking up at him.
        "My need for release was so out of control.  I don't want to
use you that way."  Nick expressed his concern.
        "Oh, honey, you could never do that.  I needed it just as
much as you.  I love making love with you; one sided or two."  Molly
told him.
        "Believe me, I needed it, and thank you.  I think I need a
nap."  Nick said.
        Molly giggled slightly, "Wore yourself out did you?  Nick
look at me, even if it was just your desire; I would still love you. 
I'm here to love, and take care of you, and all your desires or
needs.  As you are for me.  Okay."  Molly explained.
        "Agreed."  Nick replied.
        "Is you're hour up yet?"  Molly inquired.
        Nick glanced at his watch, "We have ten minutes, or so; why?
Oh, you couldn't."
        "No, no, no.  I have some real lunch to eat; if you have
room after dessert.  Are you starving?"  Molly asked.
        "Oh yeah, big time."  Nick said.
        "All right, let's clean the desk off, I'll make a fast trip
to the bathroom, and we can eat."  Molly suggested.
        "One better, you make your run, and I'll clean up then we'll
eat."  Nick suggested in return.
        "Done."  Molly said smiling.
        Molly exited her office to the ladies room while Nick
cleaned the desk from their desert.  He used some paper towels to dry
it off, laid out the food, and munched on a few chips in the process.
Molly returned to witness a beautiful setting of their lunch on her
desk.  Nick sat down in her chair, and Molly carefully sat down on
his lap.  She reached over for a sandwich, and they fed each other
with glowing smiles.
        The ten minutes went rather quickly, a knock came from the
door, and Allen slowly turned the doorknob.  He walked in with his
hand over his eyes, and cleared his throat.  Molly and Nick just
laughed at him.
        "Hey, man, is it safe?"  Allen asked.
        "No, we're naked."  Nick said laughing.
        Molly gasped, "Nick,"
        "Yes, it's safe."  Nick replied.
        Allen slowly moved his hand exhaled, "Good.  Oh now, that's
my buddy; all happy and released.  Can you now concentrate on the
case?"
        "Yes, let's go."  Nick said.
        "I'll be outside.  Hi and bye Molly."  Allen said as he left.
        Nick sighed sadly, "Time to go.  I'll see you tonight."
        "Oh yeah.  Love you, and dessert was increditably…"  Molly
expressed her love.
        "Same here.  Love you, too.  Can you stand?"  Nick requested.
        "Sure, can you?"  Molly said standing up extending her hands
to Nick.
        Nick took hold of her hands, and stood up slowly.  They
kissed each other passionately, and Molly pinched his butt.  Nick
grinned grabbing his jacket giving her one last glance, and left her
office.  He strolled down the hallway, and down the stairs.  Nick
walked over to the driver's side, and climbed in.  He closed the
door, and looked to Allen who happened to have a smirk on his face. 
Nick just shook it off, or so he thought.
        "Enough.  What happened?"  Nick asked.
        "Well, I talked to his father; he was no joy, and told me of
this pool hall that he hangs out at.  Let's start there; maybe they
will know something."  Allen suggested.
        "Thank you.  Let's roll."  Nick said.
        "You're welcome.  Drive."  Allen politely insisted.
        Nick looked around him, and carefully pulled away from the
curb.  He drove to the pool hall that Allen had mentioned.
        
        Meanwhile, LaCroix had finished cleaning up his body, and
strolled into the bedroom saw Jamie getting dressed up.  She wore a
royal blue dress with black shoes and a silver chain upon her soft
neck.  LaCroix stood mesmerized by the vision before him.  Jamie
slowly approached him, and they wrapped their arms around each other
kissing passionately.  LaCroix inhaled a taste of her subtle perfume,
and smiled.
        "Jamie, you look like heaven."  LaCroix said lovingly.
        "Thank you, so do you."  Jamie replied, "Are we ready to
dance in the club and go for a ride in the car?  Maybe break in the
shocks."  Jamie suggested.
        "I see.  Do you think the car can handle it?"  LaCroix asked.
        "The car can; can you?"  Jamie replied.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "We shall see."
        They kissed each other passionately, but just as they were
about to walk away; the window shattered, and Jamie collapsed into
LaCroix's arms.  LaCroix glanced at the window saw the hole, and
glass scattered everywhere.  LaCroix leaned towards Jamie moved her
slightly back, and saw the bullet wound in her side, and blood
everywhere.  LaCroix's tears flowed like a river yelling in fear, and
screamed for Scott.
        Scott was cleaning the bar when he heard the scream.  He ran
into the back room, up the stairs and opened the door.  Scott ran in,
and saw Jamie's lifeless body cradled in LaCroix's arms.  LaCroix
sobbing like a child over her.  Scott ran to his side, and saw the
blood.  He shook LaCroix's shoulders, and drew his attention to him
for the moment.
        "LaCroix, let's go.  She needs a doctor."  Scott said.
        "Open the window."  LaCroix insisted.
        "The sun has not set yet.  You can't."  Scott said.
        LaCroix inhaled, "I would die for Jamie, now, open the
bloody window." he demanded, "Call Nicholas."
        "I will; be safe.  I'll be right behind you, and I'll call
ahead so they'll be waiting for you."  Scott said as he stood up, and
opened the window.
        LaCroix painfully held his tears back, and cradled Jamie
into his arms tighter then took to flight to St. Claire's hospital. 
The hospital does care for humans; but also, on the lower levels they
care for the vampires.  It was also about thirty minutes before
sunset.
        While Scott informed the hospital of Jamie; he also called
Nick and explained the situation.  Scott used the dark tunnels that
led to the lower levels of the hospital.  LaCroix touched down, a
little cinched; and placed Jamie upon the gurney waiting then they
wheeled her in.  They quickly walked down the hall took Jamie into
the operating room, and the Doctor took LaCroix aside.
        "Lucien, I know you're upset; but I need a little background
on her.  Speak fast."  The Doctor said.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Jamie LaCroix, she's a Dhampir; my wife. 
She was shot.  If you need blood… please." he said shaking.
        "I'm Doctor Arthur Mason.  She'll be fine.  Wait out here,
and don't worry."  Mason requested.
        "Love her, please."  LaCroix whispered.
        Mason smiled, "I know.  Here, hold this, and you can give it
back when she's better.  Have faith."
        "Oh, I do."  LaCroix said strongly holding Jamie's wedding
ring.
        "Wait here.  I'll be back soon."  Mason told him.
        Suddenly, Scott appeared walking quickly towards him, and
placed his hand upon his upper arm.
        "LaCroix," Scott replied.
        LaCroix slightly crying, "We have to wait."
        "I locked up the club, and Nicholas is on his way."  Scott
told him, "What happened?"
        "A stray bullet flew through the window, and into Jamie." 
LaCroix explained painfully.
        Suddenly, Nick came running in all shaken, and looked around
for LaCroix then saw him at the end of the hall with Scott.  Nick
stopped short in his shoes, spoke his name softly and walked quickly
towards him.  LaCroix saw him approaching, and fell into his son's
arms.  Nick embraced him to comfort his father's pain.  They stood
there in silence for about ten minutes.  The Doctor suddenly came
out, and stood by Scott.  Scott whispered for them, and walked
quickly towards him.
        "Doctor, my son Nicholas Knight.  Jamie, how's Jamie?" 
LaCroix asked with tear filled eyes.
        "Calm down.  Jamie's stable and sleeping.  The bullet didn't
hit anything vital, so she should heal up real soon.  All she needs
is some rest."  Mason informed them.
        "I need to see her, please."  LaCroix pleaded.
        Mason hesitated a moment, "All right, but be very quiet."
        "Doc, I'm a cop, can I have that bullet?"  Nick requested.
        "Sure, I'll bring it to you.  Down the hall room twenty-
three."  Mason replied.
        "Thanks.  Let's go."  Nick said holding LaCroix by his
forearm.
        Mason led the way pointing towards the door, and left them
to get the bullet that Nick requested.  Nick slowly opened the door,
and they entered her room.  LaCroix stood stunned by the view.  She
lay so peaceful in the bed hooked up to needles, monitors, and a
blood bag over her right shoulder.  They quietly walked in, but Scott
stood off to the side while Nick and LaCroix stood by her feet.  Nick
saw the flow of tears from his father's eyes, and Nick reached out
placing his hand upon LaCroix's forearm.
        "What happened?"  Nick spoke softly.
        LaCroix sniffed slightly, "We were getting ready for a dance
and ride later.  A stray bullet from outside came through the window,
and hit her."
        "Was that the only bullet you heard fired?"  Nick questioned.
        "Yes, why?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "It wasn't a stray.  Damn it."  Nick said.
        "Someone hurt her."  LaCroix insinuated.
        "Maybe.  You stay here with Jamie.  Scott, outside."  Nick
said, "Call me anytime.  Don't worry."
        LaCroix slowly moved over to Jamie's right side sitting down
in the chair holding her hand, and staring into her peaceful face. 
Nick and Scott quietly left the room, and stood in the hall.  Nick
observed his surroundings to be safe.
        "Scott, keep very close to them; mainly Jamie.  This may be
part of the case I'm on."  Nick requested.
        "All right."  Scott said.
        "How many shots did you hear?"  Nick asked.
        Scott thought for the moment, "One."
        "This case, all right, a bomb, robbery, Jamie shot, what
next?"  Nick said thinking out loud.
        "It's all connected."  Scott implied.
        "I think so.  Jamie did see the shooter.  He has the same
tattoo as our suspect." Nick stated.
        "Great."  Scott whispered.
        "I have to go.  Keep me posted."  Nick said.
        Just as Nick was about to leave, Molly came walking down the
hall and ran into Nick's arms.  They held and embraced each other
tight.
        "Hi, Scott.  Honey, what the hell is going on?"  Molly asked
scared.
        Nick exhaled sadly, "Jamie was shot.  She's fine.  LaCroix's
in there.  Stay with him; he has a hard time handling his emotions."
he requested, "I'll take you in then I need to leave."
        Nick quietly opened the door holding Molly at her waist, and
their eyes filled with wonder especially Nick.  They saw LaCroix
actually praying for Jamie's life.  Nick cleared his throat, and
whispered, 'Lucien.'  LaCroix raised his head seeing Molly, and
extended his hand to her.  She quickly walked over, and he buried his
face into her arms and waist then cried.  Nick warmly smiled, and
blew her a kiss then left them to comfort each other.  Nick slowly
closed the door, and walked down the hall with two tons of emotional
stress on his shoulders.  He slowly walked outside, and saw Allen
leaning upon the hood of the caddy with his arms folded across his
chest waiting patiently.  Nick slowly approached him, and stood in
silence.
        "Hey, man, spill it out or I'm driving."  Allen said firmly.
        Nick exhaled, "Carla in the bomb, and now Jamie shot.  My
friends are being hurt.  We have two dead teachers; and one very
dangerous suspect missing."
        "Feel better?" Allen inquired.
        "No," Nick said.
        Allen inhaled walking up to him, "Good.  Now, channel that
anger into the case, and let's find that bastard then make him pay."
        "Let's go.  I'll drive; I'm okay."  Nick said.
        "You sure?"  Allen inquired.
        "Yeah, come on."  Nick said.
        They walked over to the caddy opening their door, and
climbed in.  They closed their door, and Nick started the engine then
slowly pulled away from the parking lot.  Nick quickly drove to the
pool hall Allen mentioned earlier.  Allen kept a close eye on Nick as
he drove the city streets.
        Nick spotted the pool hall; Andy's, pulling up along the
curb and parked.  He turned the engine off; and they opened their
door climbing out.  They closed their door, and Nick placed his keys
into his left pant pocket.  They stepped up onto the sidewalk, and
entered the pool hall.  They saw wall-to-wall tables, men at every
table playing a game, but in the far left corner; they saw two young
men playing a very tense game.  They quietly strolled over standing
by the window, and watched the game.
        One gentleman noticed them, took a step or two towards them
leaning upon the table holding his pool stick.  He glared and
examined them then cleared his throat.
        "Who are you?"  The gentleman asked.
        Nick stepped up to him, "Detective Knight, and Allen
Straton; FBI.  Who are you?"
        "They call me Tank.  What do you want?" he asked.
        "Adam Kulas."  Nick answered.
        "Who?"  Tank questioned.
        Nick snickered, "Cute.  Look, I'm having a very bad day, and
his name is on it.  I want to talk to him.  Where is he?"
        "He ain't here; obviously."  Tank answered.
        "Yo, Nick, cool down.  Tank, he's in major trouble, and I
need to stop him fast.  He's killed two, and injured two.  If you
know anything; we can deal, cool."  Allen requested calmly.
        "I'll get back to you."  Tank answered glaring at Nick.
        "He's just upset; he's cool.  Here's my card, call me okay."
Allen recommended.
        "Later."  Tank said.
        "Who are your buddies?"  Allen inquired.
        "Brad, Erik, and my real name is Jack."  Tank responded.
        "Same deal for everybody."  Allen replied.
        "Later."  Tank said.
        "Cool.  Nick, come on.  Let's go."  Allen said.
        Allen tugged at Nick's jacket sleeve dragging him out of the
pool hall, and outside.  Allen extended his hand for the keys.  Nick
reached into his left pant pocket pulling out his car keys, and they
strolled over to the caddy.  Allen opened the doors, and they climbed
in.  They closed the doors, Allen picked up the mike and told
dispatch, '81 Kilo was taking a thirty minute dinner break at Nick's
loft,' and he placed the mike back down.  Allen started the engine
pulling away from the curb, and quickly drove to Nick's loft.  Allen
drove down through the alley pulling into the lot and parked next to
the elevator.  He turned the engine off, and looked over to Nick.
        "All right, time for a beer, food and yelling.  You need to
relax before Reese pulls you off next.  Let's go."  Allen demanded.
        They opened the doors climbing out, and they closed them
while Allen locked them.  Allen handed the keys back to Nick walking
over to the elevator, and Allen pushed the button.  The doors slowly
opened; they stepped in and Allen pushed the second button.  The
doors closed, the elevator quickly rode upward and stopped.  The
doors opened into Nick's living room.  Nick stood by the couch; Allen
walked into the kitchen by the fridge and opened it.  He grabbed two
beers closing the door, and opened the beers with his hands.  He
returned to Nick by the couch, and handed him a beer.  Nick stared at
it; Allen moved his hand with the beer up to his mouth and Nick
gulped about half of it down.  Nick lowered the bottle to the table
licking the beer from his dry lips, and a slight belch exited his
mouth. 
        Allen laughed slightly, "You're excused."
        "Sorry," Nick whispered.
        Allen inhaled, "Right now, you're stressed and you're
emotions are in overload.  You need to relieve some of it to work. 
I'll make up some sandwiches; you go, and chill."
        "Go is right, be right back."  Nick said.
        Allen strolled into the kitchen to make some sandwiches
while Nick walked up the stairs.  He entered his bedroom then the
bathroom, and unzipped his fly.  He just made it in time, a few
moments passed then a flush and he exhaled loudly.  He washed his
hands then dried them, and strolled into his bedroom.  Nick took
about five minutes sitting down on the bed, and stared at the floor. 
He breathed in then out, and cried slightly.  The emotional stress on
his body took its toll.  Suddenly, Nick heard Allen say, 'food's
ready.'  He dried his eyes, stood up and fixed his clothes.  Nick
walked out of his bedroom into the hall, and down the stairs.  He saw
Allen sitting on the couch eating, and Nick's food was on the table
waiting.  Nick strolled over sat down by Allen, and picked up his
sandwich.  He took a big bite, chewed and washed it down with a gulp
of beer.
        "Feeling better?"  Allen inquired.
        "Yes, thank you."  Nick replied calmly.
        "Hey, what are friends for.  You were overloaded, and no
place to go to unload it.  I've been there, its okay."  Allen said.
        "You are a good friend."  Nick expressed his gratitude.
        Allen smiled, "So are you.  Now, onto the case.  What do we
have so far?"
        "Great food, thanks.  We have an Adam Kulas, suspect for a
bombing, shooting, and two deaths.  He's emotionally unstable; can't
handle rejection.  First Laura then Carla.  Laura's dead; but Carla's
alive with Paul."  Nick started.
        "Anytime.  The pipe bomb was filled with gun powder, sulfur,
and a nitro-digital timer.  No word yet on the serial numbers.  What
if he caught Laura with Paul Davis; that pushed him to Carla?  When
she rejected him, which pushed him over the edge.  But why rob the
store?"  Allen explained.
        "Adam shot Jamie because she can identify him; Carla too." 
Nick replied.
        Allen thought for a moment, "Money to make another bomb; or
worse."
        Nick belched slightly, exhaled, "Possibly; but the girls are
in the hospital."
        "Yeah, and you put them there.  He could turn to you for
revenge."  Allen replied.
        Nick hesitated in slight fear, "Great.  I don't need that on
my nerves next." he said, "Be right back."
        Allen snickered, "Again?"
        Nick laughed slightly, "Funny, my nerves have calmed down."
        Nick stood up walking over to the right side of the kitchen
into the half bathroom, and closed the door.  Nick moved over to the
toilet unzipping his fly, a few moments passed, and a flush echoed. 
He zipped up, washed and dried hands then exited the bathroom.  He
walked around the corner, saw Allen cleaning up the kitchen, and Nick
joined in.
        "Thanks."  Nick said.
        "Kathy rubbed off."  Allen replied.
        Nick laughed, "Same here; with Molly."
        They both enjoyed a relaxing laugh, light conversation then
Nick's phone rang.  He strolled over to the table by the couch, and
picked up the receiver.
        "Knight," Nick announced.
        "Hey, Nick, can you and Allen pop in?  The hospital sent
over the bullet that you forgot to take with you."  Kathy said.
        "Damn.  Okay, we're on our way."  Nick replied hanging up.
        Allen walked over, stood by his left side, "What's up?"
        "Kathy.  The hospital sent over that bullet I requested, and
forgot to take it myself."  Nick said.
        "Don't worry.  You're mind was on your family.  No big. 
Let's go."  Allen said.
        Allen led the way to the front door, Nick pushed the button
and the doors slowly opened.  They stepped in, Allen pushed the
button and the doors closed.  The elevator rode downward stopping on
the bottom floor, and the doors opened.  They stepped out walking
over to the caddy, and Nick unlocked the doors.  They opened the
doors, and climbed in.  Nick placed his key into the ignition
starting the engine, and drove out of the parking lot.  He quickly
headed for the Forensics building.
        Nick spotted the building pulling up along the curb, and
parked.  He turned the engine off; they climbed out and Nick locked
them.  They walked up the stairs inside of the building, and stood in
the doorway.  They saw Kathy staring into a microscope, and tapping
her fingers on the slab.  They quietly approached her standing along
side of the gurney, and Allen lightly tapped her side.  Kathy jumped
lightly slapping his upper arm, and Allen laughed a little.
        "Don't do that."  Kathy said.
        "Sorry love."  Allen apologized warmly.
        "I'll make you pay for that."  Kathy said seductively.
        "Later, darling, Nick's behind you."  Allen told her.
        "Hey, Nick, sorry."  Kathy said blushing.
        "That's okay.  I'll get a bowl of popcorn for the show." 
Nick said jokingly.
        "Cute.  Anyway, the bullet from the store owner, and the one
from Jamie; they match.  Take a look."  Kathy said nudging Allen's
arm.
        Allen peeked into the microscope, and saw the two bullets
perfectly lined up; they do match.  Suddenly, George came running
into the lab slightly winded, holding a piece of paper and looked
towards Nick.
        "Detective.  We finally got a match to those partial serial
numbers.  The materials were bought at an Army Surplus store over by
the docks.  Here, look."  George said.
        "It's Nick.  Great.  The bullets from the store owner and my
cousin's wife match.  This is all tied to Adam."  Nick replied.
        "That's new."  George replied.
        "Let's meet up at the station, and we'll have a round-up." 
Allen suggested.
        "Lead on."  George said.
        Nick walked by Allen pulling his sleeve, and all three left
the lab while Kathy gave Allen a slight slap on his butt.  Allen
turned around grinning, and winked at her.  He then followed everyone
outside to the cars, and they drove down a few feet to the station to
play catch up.
        
        However; at the hospital in Jamie's room, LaCroix was still
sitting by her side.  Molly stood by the window, and glanced at him. 
She moved over placing her hand upon his shoulder, and he leaned back
into the chair.
        "Lucien, you look so pale.  You need some rest and food." 
Molly suggested.
        "I'm fine."  LaCroix replied.
        "You need to keep up your strength for Jamie."  Molly said
warmly.
        LaCroix reached over kissing her hand, and Molly embraced
him.  Suddenly, Scott entered the room.  He saw them bowed his head
away, and waited.  Molly walked by Scott saying, 'hello,' and exited
the room.  Scott quietly approached him, and stood by his side.
        "LaCroix, you don't look well."  Scott said concerned.
        LaCroix scoffed slightly, "Molly left for food."
        "But, I have yours.  Here you go before she returns."  Scott
showed him a bottle of cow's blood.
        LaCroix reached up taking the bottle, and pulled the cork. 
Offended by it, but no choice to drink the entire bottle and handed
it back to Scott.  Just as Scott hid the bottle into his jacket,
Molly entered the room carrying a tray of food and a bottle of water.
She walked over to LaCroix, and placed the tray down.  Molly removed
the cover; there on a plate was a turkey sandwich and an apple along
side of it.
        "Here you go."  Molly said.
        "Thank you, you're kind, but…"  LaCroix replied trying to
refuse.
        "Lucien, no buts."  Molly insisted.
        "All right, let's start with the water first.  I would like
to wait for Nicholas."  LaCroix replied.
        "All right.  He'll be here shortly."  Molly said.
        Suddenly, Jamie's eyes slowly opened; she looked around and
saw LaCroix.  Jamie whispered, 'Lucien,' and he turned to see her
loving eyes then smiled.  He moved closer to her kissing her
forehead, and tear rolled down his face hitting her hand.  Jamie
smiled slowly raising her hand to his face, and wiped the tears away.
LaCroix took hold of her hand, and kissed it gently.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "Darling, I'm all right.  No more tears."  Jamie requested
softly.
        Just then, Nick and Doctor Mason entered the room, and saw
that Jamie was awake.  Nick embraced Molly, and Dr. Mason stood along
side of Jamie to examine her closely.
        "Well, young lady.  You gave us quite a scare.  How do you
feel?"  Mason asked.
        "Weak," Jamie whispered.
        "That's to be expected.  Rest now."  Mason said as he exited
the room.
        Nick moved over to LaCroix's side touching his upper arm,
and LaCroix glanced at him.  He then returned to Jamie.
        "I need to go.  I will be back tomorrow."  Scott said.
        "Thank you, Scott."  LaCroix replied.
        "Anytime.  Nicholas, Molly, goodnight."  Scott said bidding
farewell, and exited the room as well.
        "Nick, are you hungry?"  Molly inquired.
        "Yes, thank you."  Nick said kissing Molly upon her cheek,
picking up the sandwich and eating.
        LaCroix looked to Jamie watching her fall off to sleep
again, and he looked up to Molly.  He cleared his throat.
        "Molly, may I speak with Nicholas alone; for a moment?" 
LaCroix asked politely.
        "I'll be in the hall; take your time."  Molly said kissing
Nick upon his warm cheek, and she slowly left the room leaving them
alone.
        Nick stepped an inch away to look at LaCroix with great
concern, "What's wrong?"
        LaCroix sighed slightly, "Nicholas, you have shown me so
much these past few years, and so much has changed which I'm grateful
for."
        "Lucien, just say it."  Nick said.
        "Nicholas, the one thing that remains a constant is this
Faith.  Faith in us, in love and in my joining with Jamie; but
mostly, in God.  How do you…?"  LaCroix paused.
        "Pray," Nick said finishing his thought.
        "Yes," LaCroix answered, "I'm grateful for all he has given
to me.  I'm thankful we're still together; family, but mostly; he
gave Jamie back again.  How do you pray to say thank you?"
        Nick smiled warmly approaching LaCroix, and embraced him
lovingly, "You just did.  Just talk to him; he'll hear you.  I'm also
thankful for all I have, but mostly, my father is still here.  Get
some rest, I'll see you tomorrow."
        "Thank you.  Were you able to find the person who did this?"
LaCroix asked.
        "Not yet.  Take care of Jamie.  Night, Lucien."  Nick said.
        "Night, Nicholas."  LaCroix said with a slight grin.
        Nick grabbed the other half of the turkey sandwich, smiled
and quietly left the room.  As he finished the last bite; he stepped
over to the door and gave it a slight crack open.  Nick carefully
listened to LaCroix's words.
        "Lord, you have blessed me with many wondrous things, a
perfect son, a life slowly returning, but mostly Jamie.  The woman I
love more than my own.  Thankful for all the wonderful gifts.  May I
continue to please you?"  LaCroix quietly prayed.
        LaCroix sat back down taking Jamie's left hand, and placed
the wedding ring back upon her finger.  He placed a gentle kiss upon
her hand, rested his head upon her thigh like a pillow and drifted
off to sleep.  Nick closed the door, and moved over to Molly's side. 
She noticed the blushing grin.  Molly squeezed his waist, and laughed
slightly.
        "What's so funny?"  Molly asked.
        Nick cleared his throat; "He called me the perfect son."
        "Son," Molly repeated.
        Nick paused, "Yeah, he raised me since I was seven when my
family died.  A personal thing between us."
        "That's wonderful.  Let's go home."  Molly said.
        "Great, I'm beat."  Nick said.
        Molly grinned, "Too tired."
        Nick snickered, "For you, never.  Let's go; it's getting hot."
        "Let's hurry."  Molly insisted.
        "Wait I have an idea.  Come on."  Nick said.
        They quickly walked down the hall, and outside to the caddy.
Nick unlocked the doors, and opened Molly's.  She climbed in and he
closed it.  Nick walked around to his side and climbed in.  He
started the engine noticing the confused look on Molly's face, but
grinned then winked at her.  He drove out of the parking lot driving
a few side roads, and turned right down a small dirt road.  Molly
just sat back, and waited.  Nick drove a few feet coming into a
clearing, and parked by a huge oak tree.  He turned the engine off,
and set the emergency brake.  Nick slowly turned and faced Molly.
        Molly looked around, no one in sight but them.  A gentle
breeze and a dark sky filled with stars and a touch of moonlight. 
Molly faced Nick with slight confusion.
        "Nick, what are you up to?"  Molly asked.
        Nick laughed slightly, "Up yes, but someplace different,
romantic and a peaceful escape."
        "Nick, you're kidding."  Molly replied.
        "No," Nick said.
        Nick opened his door climbing out, and closed it.  He opened
the rear door picking up a blanket and laid it across the seat. 
Molly opened her door climbing out and into the back with him.  Nick
pulled out a condom from his back pocket, and closed the door.  Molly
slipped her panties off, and Nick handed the condom to Molly.  Nick
unbuckled his belt, and slipped his pants down.  Molly looked at his
eyes stroking him, and kissed him passionately.  Nick returned the
kiss while Molly slowly slipped the condom onto Nick.  She carefully
rolled up onto his lap until Nick was deep inside of her.  Nick
massaged and kissed her breasts; Molly slowly rocked upon him, and
the heat became intensified.  Nick felt his essence surging and
pulsating; he suddenly grabbed hold of Molly's waist and he exploded
inside of Molly.  She wrapped her arms around his neck as he placed
his face into her breasts, and they savored the heat of their climax.
Molly slid off to his left side, and they both relaxed.
        Molly breathing heavy, "That was…"
        Nick smiled, "Different, increditable…"
        "Yeah, and more."  Molly said.
        Nick looked into Molly's eyes, "More,"
        Molly slowly reached up kissing him passionately and they
made love in the caddy until it was time to go home to the real world.
        
        The night hours slowly passed into daylight.  The sun beamed
through the blinds rolling up the blankets, and shined upon their
glowing faces.  Molly rose first; she stretched her body and looked
up into Nick's face.  She saw the pleasure emanating and the
contentment.  She leaned up and warmly kissed him.  Nick slowly
stretched over and returned the passion.  Molly leaned up smiled, and
gave him a quick stroke upon his chest.
        "Thank you for a heavenly night."  Molly whispered.
        Nick smiled, "Yes it was, and the shocks took it.  We must
do that again."
        "Later, it's a work day.  What's your agenda today?"  Molly
inquired.
        "Let's see, Carla goes home, visit Lucien, and work."  Nick
told her.
        "Poor soul.  I'll be working all day in my office; sorting
files."  Molly replied, "Oh, a Doctor Mason called, your physical is
today."
        "Oh, yeah."  Nick replied.
        "Well, you can tell him I said that you are in great shape."
Molly complimented him.
        "Really, only you would know."  Nick replied warmly.
        "I'm honored.  Let's make sure, shower time." Molly suggested.
        Nick grinned, "Play Doctor, oh boy."
        Molly crawled out of bed extending her hand, and Nick
quickly scooted out of the bed.  They took turns using the bathroom,
and they quickly took a shower to clean up for the day.  Nick grabbed
the towel to dry themselves off, but he noticed Molly staring at his
body.  He looked down then up to her eyes and snapped his fingers.
        "It's rude to stare."  Nick quoted.
        Molly smiled, "Only if its something bad."
        "Well?" Nick inquired.
        Molly moaned slightly licking her finger then embraced him,
"Delicious, a perfect fit."
        "Love you."  Nick said laughing.
        "Love you, too.  Let's get dressed; we both have a very busy
long day."  Molly said.
        Nick hung up the towel behind him, and opened the door.  He
let Molly walk by first then he followed close behind her.  They
walked over to their own dresser removing clean work clothes, and
tossed them onto the bed.  They got dressed then exited the bedroom,
and walked out into the hall.  They strolled down the stairs into the
kitchen.  Nick prepared the coffee while Molly started breakfast.  A
knock echoed from the door, Nick walked over to the door and pushed
the button.  At first he saw no one but Paul jumped out and Nick got
a slight jolt to his nerves.
        "Did you miss me?"  Paul asked.
        "Of course.  Welcome back."  Nick said hugging him.
        They closed the door quietly walking into the kitchen, and
Paul stood along side of Molly whispering her name.  She turned
seeing him, and warmly wrapped her arms around his neck.  Paul
returned the embrace.
        "Whoa; I guess I was missed."  Paul said.
        "Breakfast?" Molly inquired.
        "Oh yeah, how's the case going?"  Paul inquired.
        Nick exhale angrily, "Frustrating.  Business later.  How's
Carla?"
        "Well, she's back to normal.  Meaning, she's looking for
housework, and seeing the kids again."  Paul said.
        "That's Carla."  Molly replied.
        Paul snickered, "She's looking to play catch up."
        "Sounds like fun."  Nick whispered.
        Molly gasped, "You're ahead."
        "Yeah, by a land slide."  Nick said proudly rubbing his chest.
        Paul inhaled in shock, "You devil you.  Where?"
        "Later, time to eat and we'll go get Carla."  Nick said.
        "I need a lift."  Molly yelled out.
        "And take Molly to work."  Nick added to his agenda.
        They walked over to the dining room table, sat down and
enjoyed a hot meal.  After about thirty minutes of eating, and light
conversation; they each picked up their dishes and carried them into
the kitchen while Molly loaded up the dishwasher.  Molly set it to
clean automatically; Nick walked over to the table by the couch and
picked up his things then removed his gun placing it into his belt in
the back.  They walked over to the front door, Molly pushed the
button and the door opened.  They stepped in, Nick set the lock and
they rode down to Nick's car just outside of the elevator.  Nick
unlocked the doors, and they climbed into the caddy.  Paul sat in the
rear.  Nick started the engine, backed up and drove out of the lot
down through the alley.  Nick slowly headed for the Gallery to drop
Molly off first.
        Nick pulled up along the curb, and parked.  Paul discreetly
turned around gazing out the back window.  Nick turned to look into
Molly's soft eyes as she smiled in return.  They slowly leaned
forward kissing each other passionately, and a slight exhale.  They
leaned back slightly with a little laugh, and Nick warmly stroked her
soft cheek.
        "If you need anything just call me okay."  Nick replied,
hinting.
        "Same to you.  Good luck with the physical."  Molly replied.
        "Oh yeah.  You can cure what ills me later.  Have a good
day."  Nick suggested.
        "You bet.  Love you."  Molly said.
        "Love you, too, darling."  Nick replied softly.
        They quickly gave each other a slight kiss, a smile and
Molly slowly exited the car.  Paul also climbed out of the back
waving to Molly and climbed into the front next to Nick.  Nick
watched Molly walk up the stairs then inside, and gave Paul a slight
stare.
        "What?"  Nick asked.
        Paul with a slight snicker, "You keep that up, you'll go
blind."
        "So will you.  Let's get Carla."  Nick told him.
        Paul rubbed his hands together, "Cool."
        "You visit with Carla while I get poked at."  Nick said
slightly hesitant.
        "Lucky you," Paul said laughing slightly.
        "Very funny, let's roll."  Nick said scoffing at him.
        Nick carefully pulled away from the curb and quickly drove
to the hospital.  He spotted the parking lot, and slowly drove in
looking for a space.  He parked near the front door, and turned the
engine off.  They climbed out, and walked along the path then inside
of the building.  Paul strolled left while Nick went right, and
walked down the hall.  There he saw LaCroix waiting for him by the
entrance to Doctor Mason's office.  They greeted each other with a
warm embrace, and Nick opened the door as LaCroix followed him. 
LaCroix closed the door seeing Doctor Mason leaning up against his
desk holding three white plastic cups with lids.  Nick and LaCroix
glanced at each other, and approached him.
        "Hello, gentlemen.  Lucien; let's begin with you.  According
to you and your son here; you have regained most of your human
sensations including sexual arousal."  Dr. Mason briefed him.
        "Yes," LaCroix whispered.
        "That's wonderful.  You deserve to regain your soul.  What I
need from you, if you can, a sample in this cup."  Dr. Mason said
handing a cup to him.
        LaCroix glares at it, "How?"
        "Guess, and now you.  Nicholas, where you are human, and
have enjoyed the new life, soul, I have two cups for you."  Dr. Mason
said.
        "Two," Nick uttered.
        "Yes, same as your father, and pee in the other.  Lucien's
not there yet.  Now, you may call your ladies to help; that's it. 
There are two rooms behind you.  Call me when you're done."  Dr.
Mason requested with a slight grin.
        "Great."  Nick replied.
        They glanced at the cups then at each other, and exhaled
loudly.  They each pulled out their cell phones strolling into a
separate room, and closed the door.  About thirty minutes later; they
exited their room and stood by the desk.
        "You okay?"  Nick asked.
        "I think so.  You?"  LaCroix inquired.
        Nick paused, "I hope it's a very long time before I need to
do that again."
        "I agree."  LaCroix agreed.
        "All done boys.  Good.  Place them on my desk, and I need
your arms next."  Dr. Mason replied.
        "What for?"  LaCroix asked.
        Doctor laughed, "Blood, I need some."
        "I see."  LaCroix sighed.
        "All right, roll up the sleeves then Nick; I need to talk to
you privately then Lucien."  Doctor said.
        Nick hesitated, "Why?"
        "Although you two are related, but some things do remain
private."  Doctor said, "Thanks, Lucien.  Wait outside please.  If he
wants to share, he will."
        As Doctor Mason finished up with Nick's blood sample, Lucien
left closing the door behind him.
        "Thanks, Nick.  Have you fully adjusted to being human now?"
Doctor asked.
        "Yeah.  I don't remember much about the past except for
Lucien, Scott, and a few memories pop up once in awhile."  Nick said.
        "Good.  How's work, food, and stuff in general?" Doctor
inquired.
        "I think I gained a few since Molly joined me."  Nick
replied rubbing his stomach.
        "I see, and the sex life.  How's that?"  Doctor asked.
        "Doc," Nick whispered shyly.
        "You are fully human and active; which means the gun works. 
Now."  Doc insisted.
        "We had that fright, and it was a false alarm.  But Molly
and I are planning to marry in October.  Sex life, very satisfying." 
Nick answered proudly.
        "Good.  I will give you the results later.  Stay in touch,
and send Lucien in."  Doctor requested.
        "Thanks, Doc."  Nick said blushing.
        Nick quietly left his office telling LaCroix it was his
turn.  They embraced each other then Nick slowly walked away while
LaCroix entered the Doctor's office closing the door.  LaCroix stood
by him quietly folded his arms in front of his chest.
        "Is Nicholas all right?"  LaCroix inquired concern for his
son.
        Doc exhaled, "He's fine.  Heart and lungs clear and beating
very strong.  He doesn't remember much of his vampire past."
        "Good.  The less he remembers the better."  LaCroix said.
        "True, for now.  Okay, Lucien LaCroix.  I read your list of
things that you have regained.  The most recent is your sexual
experience.  No vampire has ever regained that use; not even
Nicholas.  Care to share."  Doc requested.
        "Well, Jamie is a Dhampir.  I have felt my body become hot,
sweaty, and at times, I felt the surge at the climax."  LaCroix
quietly expressed.
        "Hmm.  Do you feel anything as the erection approaches,
during and when you ejaculate?"  Doc asked.
        LaCroix paused slightly, "Only as the surge emerges."
        Doc paused a moment, "Have you felt your body temperature
rise at all?"
        "Some," LaCroix said.
        "Were you able to get a sample?"  Doc asked.
        "Yes, with Jamie's help.  It's behind you."  LaCroix replied
pointing at his desk.
        "Oh yeah.  That's very rare for a vampire.  Looks like you
will be joining your son.  I'm very pleased for you.  I will let you
know later.  Go see Jamie."  Doc suggested.
        "Thank you, Doctor.  I hope so."  LaCroix replied politely.
        "Lucien, always remember.  Like you told Nicholas, the true
fight begins after, and if, you receive this gift."  Doctor expressed
strongly.
        "I know.  Thank you."  LaCroix said leaving his office.
        LaCroix slowly left his office walking down the hall to
Jamie's room.  Thinking about what the Doctor had told him.  Fear
slowly filled his body, opened the door to Jamie's room and gazed
upon her very still but sleeping body.  The reality of being human
terrified him.  After two thousand years; was it possible?  LaCroix
quietly strolled over to her sitting by her side, and drifted into
deep thought gazing at her soft glowing face.
        
        Nick lightly knocked on Carla's door and slowly walked in. 
He saw Paul leaning over her body kissing her passionately with a
slight moan and a giggle from Carla.  Nick quietly snuck up to them,
and cleared his throat with no response.
        "Excuse me, that's old."  Nick said jokingly.
        Paul looked up, started blushing, "Hey, man.  How was the
physical?"
        Nick snickered, "Not as much fun as you were trying to have."
        "Funny guy.  For that remark; how many cups?"  Paul asked.
        "Two."  Nick answered.
        "How was it?"  Paul inquired.
        "Later, let's go home."  Nick strongly suggested.
        Paul assisted Carla out of her room while Nick carried the
bags.  Nick stood by the door next to Paul while the nurse helped
Carla into the wheelchair.  They slowly strolled down the hall then
outside to Nick's car, and Paul opened the rear passenger door. 
Carla slowly stood up leaning on Paul, and the nurse returned to the
hospital with the wheelchair.  Paul climbed in next to Carla, and
Nick placed the bag in the front seat.  He walked around, climbed in
and started the engine.  Nick quickly drove out of the parking lot,
and headed for Paul and Carla's apartment.
        Nick drove into the parking lot, and parked near the front
door.  Nick grabbed hold of the bags while Paul helped Carla out of
the car, and inside of their apartment complex.  They climbed the few
steps to the second floor walking down the small corridor to their
front door on the right, and Paul unlocked the door.  Paul slowly
opened the door taking Carla into the bedroom to rest, and Nick
placed the bags onto the chair next to the couch.  Nick strolled into
the kitchen, and helped himself to a beer.  Paul strolled out of the
bedroom into the living room, and saw Nick daydreaming drinking his
beer in the kitchen.  Paul, slightly concerned, joined him and tapped
his forearm.
        "Hey, man, spill it."  Paul insisted.
        Nick coughed a little, "Carla all right?"
        Paul exhaled, "She's sleeping.  It's just us, talk to me."
        Nick inhaled placing his bottle into the sink, and folded
his arms across his chest, "Allen and I discovered the bomb and the
shooting are connected."
        "Shooting," Paul inquired slightly puzzled.
        "Sorry man.  Jamie was caught in a robbery with Adam.  A
short time later, she was shot.  She's down on the first level with
Lucien.  She's fine.  Adam is emotionally unstable.  Apparently, he
was in love with Laura Johnson.  She had an affair with Paul Davis. 
She rejected him, and he moved onto Carla.  When she rejected him
then he bombed the school."  Nick explained.
        "Damn."  Paul whispered.
        "He robbed the convenient store where Jamie was shopping,
and she saw him.  Later, drove by shooting her through the window of
the Raven.  We feel he's planning something huge.  We talked to a few
of his buddies, but Adam is no where in sight."  Nick added.
        "Great.  The two that died." Paul inquired.
        Nick exhaled, "Paul Davis and Laura Johnson.  He's starting
to make this personal.  It's getting…"
        "Scary.  I hear you.  No hide outs."  Paul suggested.
        "The Pool Hall.  We checked it; not there.  Allen checked
the family; not there either."  Nick said with anger in his voice.
        "Cool down.  You need to think straight.  Okay."  Paul
recommended.
        "Yeah, yeah," Nick replied sarcastically.
        Paul paused a moment, "What about searching their homes; the
bedrooms?"
        "That's today."  Nick answered.
        Paul exhaled, "Good.  Hungry?"
        "Yeah," Nick sighed.
        "Cool.  Let's raid the fridge, and you can tell me about the
mystery adventure with Molly."  Paul replied.
        "Oh that.  Let's just say the caddy has great shocks."  Nick
said laughing.
        Paul stunned, "You animal you.  That's my buddy."
        They quickly searched the fridge for some food to make
sandwiches, and sat down at the table to enjoy a friendly lunch. 
They shared friendly conversation, and a few laughs that Nick truly
needed.  Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang.  He reached into his
jacket pocket pulling it out, and pushed the button.
        "Knight,"  Nick announced.
        "Hey, Buddy, where are you?"  Allen asked.
        Nick cleared his throat, "Hey, Allen.  I'm in Paul's
kitchen.  What's up?"
        "I have two search warrants; wanna play?"  Allen asked.
        "Oh yeah.  Where are you?"  Nick inquired.
        Allen laughed, "Behind Paul's front door."
        Nick laughed, "Cute.  Get in here.  Carla's home."
        "Done."  Allen said.
        Allen quickly opened Paul's front door closing it behind
him, and entered the kitchen standing by Nick's side like a statue. 
Nick returned his phone to his pocket, and leaned back into his
chair.  Allen sat down by his side, and glared at him then towards
Paul.
        "This is the Nick we all know and love.  Frustration gone." 
Allen inquired.
        "Very funny, and yes."  Nick replied.
        "Hey, Reese asked me to ask you, did you go for your
physical?"  Allen asked.
        "Yes.  Let's go to work.  Later Paul, and thanks for lunch."
Nick said politely.
        "Later guys.  Keep me posted."  Paul said, "Let yourselves
out."
        Nick and Allen quietly excused themselves from the table
strolling to the front door, and exiting the apartment leaving Paul
behind.  They walked down the corridor down a few steps, and outside.
They climbed in, and Nick started the engine.  Allen showed Nick the
directions to Tank's home.
        "Where to first?"  Nick asked.
        "First, tell me about that grin then Tank's home."  Allen
insisted.
        "What grin?"  Nick asked puzzled.
        "That one.  That's glued to your face."  Allen said showing
him the address of Tank's home.
        "Oh that.  Later.  Let's plan a night after the case is
done.  A beer night with Paul's idea of, 'Truth or Dare.'"  Nick
suggested.
        "You're on.  Let's roll."  Allen replied smiling, "here from
Michael yet?"
        "Not yet.  Next thing to do is an APB.  That'll make him
call."  Nick suggested.
        "Cool.  Let's go play."  Allen said.
        Nick drove out of the parking lot into traffic, and drove
quickly to the other side of the city to Tank's home on the north
side.  Allen spotted the driveway on Nick's left side, and Nick
slowly drove in.  He turned the engine off, and they climbed out. 
They strolled up the path to the front door, and Allen lightly
knocked on the door then waited patiently.  Suddenly, the door slowly
opened and a worn old woman appeared.  She stood about five feet,
gray-haired with brown tired eyes.  She cleared her throat looking
towards Allen.
        "Yes," she replied.
        "Mrs. Dion, I'm Allen Straton of the FBI, and this is Nick
Knight; Metro Police.  May we come in and talk?"  Allen asked.
        "Call me Edie.  Come in."  Edie said opening the door.
        Allen and Nick quickly entered her home, and Edie closed it
behind them.  They patiently stood in the doorway of the kitchen. 
Edie quietly approached them and stood very nervous.
        "Edie, we have a search warrant for these premises."  Allen
told her.
        "Why, why my home?"  Edie asked with a slight stutter to her
voice.
        "You're son Tank, Jack, is a friend of Adam Kulas and we're
trying to find him."  Allen explained.
        Edie exhaled, "That Adam, I knew he was bad news.  He and
Tank had a huge fight the other day.  I haven't seen jack in a few
days.  Can you find him for me?"
        "Edie, do you know where Adam was calling from?"  Nick
questioned.
        "No, please, search his room.  It's down the hall on the
left.  Find Jack, too."  Edie pleaded.
        "Sure, okay.  Wait here for us."  Allen recommended.
        "All right, thank you."  Edie whispered.
        While Edie sat down at her kitchen table, Nick and Allen
strolled down the hallway to the room on their left, and Allen
cautiously opened the door.  Allen carefully observed the room, and
they entered the room.  The room was like most boys; posters covered
all the walls, clothes scattered on the floor, and the bed unmade.
        "This will be fun."  Allen replied.
        "Not," Nick whispered.
        Allen exhaled, "True.  All right, you go right and I'll go
this way."
        "See you in the middle."  Nick said, "Got some gloves."
        "Here you go."  Allen said pulling gloves from his pocket.
        "Thanks."  Nick replied.
        They slipped their hands into the gloves and strolled
separately to search the room.  Nick carefully scanned through the
tossed clothes, and debris.  He stood in front of the dresser, and
pulled out the drawers.  As he opened the bottom left drawer, his
eyes filled with shock and whistled for Allen.  Allen turned about,
and stood along side of him.  His eyes were stunned to witness a semi-
automatic with several boxes of ammunition, a few pictures and one
dagger.  Allen carefully picked up the pictures to examine them
closely.
        "Uh-oh," Allen uttered.
        "What is it?"  Nick asked.
        Allen held out two pictures, "Look,"
        Nick glared at the pictures Allen had found, and Nick
appeared stunned.  Allen held two pictures one of Carla, and one of
Jamie; both with red X's across their faces.  Allen placed them into
his pocket, and returned to his side to continue the search.  Allen
made his way to the bed at the nightstand.  He sat down on the bed,
and pulled out the small drawer.  He found a letter that was slightly
crumbled up.  Allen removed it, and carefully unfolded it.  Suddenly,
Allen called for Nick to come and see the letter.  It wasn't a
letter, but a list of names.
        "What you got?"  Nick inquired.
        "A list of names.  It has Jamie and Carla on it.  But it
also has you and Lucien.  It's become personal."  Allen said.
        "Don't tell Reese yet.  I need to end this.  I'll tell
Lucien later, so he will be aware of this.  Let's finish up."  Nick
replied.
        They quickly returned to the search, and came to the closet
at the far right corner of the room.  Allen cautiously opened the
door while Nick stood ready.  The door opened, and Nick stood in
horror.  Allen saw Nick's eyes, and came around the door.  Inside the
closet were pictures of Carla everywhere, in every pose possible and
to the far right a few of Jamie.
        "Oh my, God, we have to find Tank and Adam; fast."  Allen
said.
        "Let's go."  Nick whispered.
        "Adam's place.  He's a few houses down."  Allen suggested.
        Nick slowly turned about and led the way out of the bedroom.
Allen closed the door behind him, and they strolled down the hall
into the kitchen.  Edie jumped slightly as they entered the kitchen. 
She looked up, and saw Nick's eyes.  She became frightened, and stood
to face Allen.
        "Thank you, Edie.  We'll be in touch; I promise."  Allen
told her.
        "Thank you.  Just find Jack, please."  Edie pleaded.
        "We will.  We'll let ourselves out."  Allen said, "Let's go
Nick."
        They quickly turned around leaving Edie in the kitchen, and
they strolled to the front door then outside to the caddy.  They
climbed in, and Nick placed the key into the ignition then hesitated.
Allen noticed him and tapped his forearm.
        "Hey," Allen said.
        "Sorry.  Carla because she rejected him, Jamie, she can
identify him and me because I'm there in his face, but why Lucien?" 
Nick questioned.
        Allen paused, "Maybe because he's protecting Jamie and you."
        "Why not Paul?  He's protecting Carla."  Nick suggested.
        "There home right?"  Allen inquired.
        "Yeah.  The hospital still has Jamie with Lucien."  Nick
stated, "Paul will have to leave her alone to shop or something."
        "I'll send an undercover agent to watch them."  Allen replied.
        "You do that, and I'll drive to Adam's." Nick said starting
the engine.
        Nick carefully backed out of the driveway, and Allen called
in for a guard for Paul and Carla.  Allen directed Nick to Adam's
place.  He slowly drove into the driveway to his right and turned the
engine off.  They quickly climbed out, and walked down the path up to
the front door.  Allen gently rang the doorbell, and they waited
patiently.  Suddenly, a rough looking man appeared at the door, and
noticed Allen immediately.  He took a quick glance at Nick, and
scoffed him off.
        "What is it now?" he said sarcastically.
        "Mr. Kulas, I have a search warrant for these premises.  Can
you please step outside?"  Allen requested.
        "He ain't here."  Mr. Kulas uttered.
        "We know that.  Outside please, unless you need a hand." 
Allen insisted.
        "Whatever.  Who's he?"  Mr. Kulas asked.
        "Detective Nick Knight, Metro Police.  Need a hand?"  Nick
questioned.
        "Knight; Adam mentioned you." he said.
        "All good I hope.  You're name?"  Nick inquired.
        Mr. Kulas approached Nick rather close, "Joe.  He said he
saw you at the Gallery."
        Nick glanced over to Allen, "What did he say?"
        "Not much, but he said it was x-rated.  Who was the broad?"
        Nick stepped closer, "My wife." he answered, "Allen, we need
to go.  Do this later."
        "You're on."  Allen said.
        They quickly ran back to the caddy, and climbed in.  Nick
pulled out his cell phone, and called Molly at the Gallery.  Nick
looked to Allen; no answer.  Nick hung it up, and placed it into his
pocket then started the engine.  He quickly backed out, and headed
for the Gallery.  Nick pulled up along the curb, and turned the
engine off.  They jumped out, and ran up the stairs running down the
corridor to Molly's office.  Nick quickly opened the door, and there
was no Molly.  Her office was a complete shambles; papers everywhere.
Nick stood in horror, and gasped at the disaster at his feet.  Allen
reached out, and tapped his shoulder.  Nick jumped in fright.
        "Hey, Nick, Nick!  Come on.  We need to see Lucien.  Come
on, let's go.  We'll get her back."  Allen said.
        Nick turned to face Allen with tears, "Molly,"
        Allen glared into his eyes, "We need Lucien, let's go. 
Think straight so we can find her." he said, "Come on."
        Nick handed him the keys, "Please, I can't,"
        "Let's go."  Allen said.
        They quickly ran out of the Gallery down the stairs and over
to the caddy.  They quickly climbed in, and Allen started the engine.
He pulled away, and quickly drove to the hospital to see LaCroix. 
Allen spotted the hospital in the distance, and carefully drove into
the parking lot.  He parked near the front door at the lower levels. 
Allen turned the engine off, and they jumped out.  They ran up the
path inside the building, and down the hall.  Allen quickly grabbed
Nick by the arm, and held him back.
        "All right, wait here.  I'll send him out.  No sense in
upsetting Jamie."  Allen said.
        Nick nodded his head with a loud sigh, and Allen quietly
entered Jamie's room.  He saw LaCroix standing by the window, and
deep in thought.  LaCroix heard the creek of the door and saw Allen
standing there.  He sensed something terribly wrong.  LaCroix walked
over and stood by his side.
        "Nick's out in the hall, he needs you."  Allen said.
        "What's happened?"  LaCroix asked slightly terrified.
        Allen exhaled, "Adam's got Molly."
        LaCroix quickly ran out of the room, and saw Nick leaning up
against the wall terrified like a small child.  LaCroix whispered,
'Nicholas,' and Nick looked up to see his father's eyes.  Nick slowly
walked up to him embracing him, and cried in LaCroix's loving arms. 
LaCroix held him tight until he cried his last tear.  Nick leaned
back; LaCroix pulled his hanky out from his pocket and handed it to
his son.
        "Nicholas, Allen told me.  What happened?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "We searched Tank's home, and we found pictures of Carla and
Jamie.  A list of names with our names on it.  Then went to Adam's
home, and his father knew me.  Adam's been following me and Molly. 
He saw us at the Gallery."  Nick said shaking all over.
        "Oh dear.  All right, I'll place Scott here with Jamie, and
you stay with me at the club.  He needs to go down."  LaCroix said.
        "Molly," Nick whispered.
        "Nicholas, she'll be home soon.  I promise.  I will tell
Jamie so she won't worry that I'm gone.  Now, go with Allen, and I
will see you at the club.  Don't worry." LaCroix said trying to calm
him.
        "No promises."  Nick replied.
        "Stay here.  I'll send Allen to you.  Be at the Raven later,
no buts."  LaCroix insisted.
        "All right."  Nick said.
        "Thank you.  Wait here."  LaCroix said.
        LaCroix embraced his son, and slowly entered Jamie's room. 
He saw Allen standing by Jamie's feet staring at her sleeping
peacefully.  LaCroix quietly walked over and stood by his left side.
        "How is he?"  Allen asked.
        "Almost destroyed.  Bring him to the Raven later.  It's not
safe at the loft.  Keep me informed, especially on Nicholas." 
LaCroix requested.
        "No problem friend.  Have two beers waiting."  Allen
suggested.
        "Friend," LaCroix whispered.
        "Always."  Allen said looking into LaCroix's face.
        "Same in return, thank you."  LaCroix said.
        Allen inhaled, "Cool, later."
        Allen stepped into the hallway, and saw Nick pacing the
floor like a nervous father-to-be.  Allen walked up to him, and
tapped his upper arm.  Nick looked to Allen, and they left the
hospital for outside to the car.  They climbed in, and Allen started
the engine, Allen looked to Nick and paused a moment.
        "Let's check in, see the bomb squad and talk to Tank or Brad
at the pool hall."  Allen said.
        "Done."  Nick whispered.
        "Don't let Reese see you this way.  That's a hint."  Allen
implied.
        "I'll handle it."  Nick replied.
        Allen quickly started the engine, and drove out of the
parking lot.  He quickly drove through the city heading for the
Police Station.
        
        Meanwhile, by the docks, a small building almost condemned,
a light was emanating through the broken windows.  Inside, Molly
chained at the ankle to a brick pole and curled up like a ball in a
corner crying.  Adam slowly walked in, and knelt down by her side. 
He slowly stroked her hair then her upper arm.  Molly moved away and
hid her face.  Adam placed his hand under her chin and pulled her
head up to face him.  He pulled out a small knife, and pressed it up
against her throat.  Molly gasped at the coldness of the blade.
        "Don't pull away again.  You are so pretty."  Adam said
glaring at her.
        "Please, don't hurt me."  Molly said terrified.
        Adam laughed, "Hurt, never.  Love you, maybe." he said as he
lowered his hand to her breast.
        Molly shook in fear, crying, "Please don't,"
        Adam's anger became enraged; he quickly slapped her face and
Molly fell side ways away from him, "You don't order me." he yelled. 
Adam slowly stood up glaring at her, and left her there alone and
frightened.
        
        However, back at the station Nick and Allen had just sat
down to meet with George and his crew.  George walked around, and
leaned upon Allen's desk with his back side.  Allen stayed close to
Nick due to his emotional overload.  George cleared his throat to
draw everyone's attention.
        "All right people, settle down.  Here's what we know so far.
His name is Adam Kulas, a teacher's aide who is now emotionally
unstable and extremely dangerous.  The pipe-bomb he created had C-4,
sulfur, and a digital mercury timer.  We investigated the store where
he got it, and found out he has enough for another bomb maybe two, or
a huge one.  Because he's targeting Carla, Allen placed a guard
around her.  No one seems to know where he's hiding.  Allen."  George
reported.
        "Well, we talked to the families, friends and the schools;
no clues.  We have now realized he's taken a hostage."  Allen told
them.
        George gasped, "What?  Who?"
        "Detective Knight's future wife, Molly Ebourn.  It appears,
Adam has made this personal and he's focused on Nick."  Allen
explained.
        "Nick," George said, "I'm sorry man.  We'll help get her
back."
        "Thank you.  It seems I'm in his way, and he's pissed.  We
found a list of names at Jack Dion's, a.k.a., Tank's home.  It has
Carla's and Jamie's names on it.  Jamie is my cousin's wife.  Also my
name and my cousin Lucien."  Nick briefed them angrily. 
        Suddenly, Nick's cell phone rang, and everyone around him
stood in dead silence including Nick.  He slowly reached into his
pocket pulling out his phone, and Allen stood directly in front of
him showing him to be calm and talk slowly.  Nick quietly pushed the
button, and cleared his throat.
        "Knight," Nick announced nervously.
        Adam laughed sarcastically, "Knight that was quite a show
you put on."
        "I'm glad you enjoyed it.  Where's Molly?"  Nick asked.
        "Safe, so far.  You have ruined everything for me.  You took
Carla way, so I took yours.  How does if feel to lose one you love?" 
Adam inquired.
        Nick licked his dry lips, "It sucks.  What do you want?"
        "I'll trade you.  Molly for Carla then back off."   Adam
said, "You have twelve hours to decide.  I'll call you at noon
tomorrow.  That's the deal."
        Nick hung up the phone placing it back into his pocket. 
Anger filled every pore and nerve in his body.  Allen tapped his
upper arm, "Hey,"
        "Adam.  He'll trade Carla for Molly."  Nick told him.
        "Damn it.  Paul will blow a gasket."  Allen said.
        "We can't do that guys.  We'll find another way."  George
replied.
        "How?"  Nick asked loudly.
        Allen inhaled, "Cool down.  George, check out that surplus
store again.  Nick and I will shake the pool hall then we'll stay at
the Raven with Lucien."
        "Done.  Knight, don't worry; she'll be back."  George
replied assuring him.
        George broke up the meeting, and each team went their
separate ways to carry out their mission to find Adam.  Also to save
Molly's life before it's too late.
        
        At the hospital LaCroix sat down by Jamie's side as she
slowly awoke from a restful sleep.  Jamie smiled as she gazed into
his blue eyes, but saw the sadness and pain.  She carefully sat up
close to him, and stroked his warm cheek.

        "Lucien, what's happened?"  Jamie asked softly.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "Lucien, I'm here, it's all right."  Jamie replied to
comfort him.
        LaCroix allowing the tears to slowly roll down, looking into
Jamie's loving eyes, "The man who hurt Carla, and you; has now taken
Molly hostage."
        Jamie gasped at the horrifying news, "What?"
        LaCroix sniffed slightly, "Yes, and Nicholas is crushed." he
said, "I need to be with him.  Scott will stay with you to keep you
safe.  Do you mind?"
        Jamie smiled, "No, darling, I understand, and I'm fine,
really.  You're son needs you.  Got to him."
        LaCroix grinned, "I love you so much.  We'll plan a special
night for us."
        "I can't wait.  Go on."  Jamie replied.
        LaCroix stood leaning over to Jamie, and kissed her
passionately.  Warmly stroked her cheek and slowly walked away as
Scott entered the room.
        "Scott, you are to stay with Jamie until I return.  I'm
going to Nicholas."  LaCroix requested.
        "Becareful, and stay safe."  Scott said.
        LaCroix grinned, "I will, thank you." he said leaving the
room giving Jamie one last glance.
        LaCroix quickly walked down the corridor outside to the cool
night air.  The sun had just set, and he scanned the area around him.
He looked upward to the star filled sky, and took to flight.  He
quickly flew to the Raven to wait for Nick and Allen to appear.
        Downtown Toronto at the pool hall, Nick and Allen entered
the building and saw Brad in the extreme far right corner.  Allen led
the way as Nick followed close behind, and Allen stood directly in
Brad's face almost nose-to-nose.  Brad exhaled slowly giving Nick a
quick stare.
        "He ain't here."  Brad said.
        "I know that.  Where are they?  Where's Adam and Tank?" 
Allen demanded softly.
        "Adam, I don't care, he's bad news.  Tank was at the docks
last time I heard."  Brad answered.
        "Are you sure?  Do we need to take a ride?"  Allen implied.
        "Yeah, I'm sure."  Brad replied.
        "If I ever find out you lied, I will be on you worse than a
rash.  Hear me?"  Allen said with a strong threat.
        "Yeah," Brad whispered in fear.
        "Yeah, let's go Nick.  I suddenly need some fresh air." 
Allen suggested.
        Nick exhaled turning around with Allen at his left side of
the pool hall, and stood outside.  They took in a deep breath of
fresh, and exhaled.  Nick sniffed slightly turning to Allen, "Where
to now?"
        "It's late, time for a beer, see Lucien and I'll take the
bus back."  Allen suggested.
        "But…"  Nick started.
        "No.  You need to relax, think straight to get her back and
you need to be with family right now.  Come on."  Allen said.
        "You drive," Nick said. "I'm tired."
        "Come on, Buddy."  Allen said slapping Nick on his upper arm.
        They walked over to the caddy, and climbed in.  Allen
started the engine while Nick stared out the window, and Allen
carefully pulled away from the curb heading for the Raven to see
LaCroix.  Allen saw the club off to his right, and drove along the
curb parking near the front door.  They slowly climbed out with Allen
locking the doors, and handed the keys to Nick.  They strolled up to
the front door, and entered the club.  They saw LaCroix cleaning the
new tabled in the club.  Dark wooden circular tables that surrounded
the poles on the dance floor.  Allen spotted the beers on the bar,
and waved Nick along down the stairs.  Allen sat down and inhaled his
beer.  Nick quietly approached LaCroix, and lightly touched his arm. 
LaCroix jumped slightly turning to see Nick, and saw Nick's eyes.
        "Nicholas, I didn't hear you.  What's wrong?"  LaCroix
inquired.
        "You didn't hear or sense me.  A new one."  Nick said.
        "That's true.  Something else took place.  Tell me what's
wrong?"  LaCroix insisted.
        "I miss Molly.  He called me; he wants to trade Molly for
Carla."  Nick told him.
        "Oh dear.  Let's go and sit down."  LaCroix requested
feeling it will a long night.
        They walked over to the bar, Nick picked up his beer and
Allen bid him farewell leaving them alone.  Nick and LaCroix strolled
into the backroom and sat down on the couch facing each other.
        "That's a tough decision; you're bride or Paul's.  Does he
know?"  LaCroix asked.
        "No, I can't."  Nick answered.
        "He has the right to know.  Adam could take her, and their
both lost."  LaCroix implied.
        "Never thought of that.  I'll talk to him tomorrow."  Nick
replied.
        "Good.  The day Jamie was shot; I flew her to the hospital."
LaCroix told him.
        "That was an emergency," Nick replied.
        "In the sunlight," LaCroix added.
        Nick stunned, "What?"
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "Yes, I was a little cinched, but
unharmed."
        "I'm stunned, but thrilled for you.  Not to be too personal,
but how much of your sensation has come back?"  Nick inquired.
        "Sensation," LaCroix slightly puzzled asking to force him to
say the word.
        Nick cleared his throat slightly blushing, "Lucien, come on.
THE sensation."
        "Are you referring to my sexual arousal, Nicholas?  We're
family, just say it."  LaCroix implied applying some pressure.
        Nick exhaled, "All right.  How much of your sexual arousal
do you feel?  Better."
        LaCroix laughed, "Very good.  The day you came to see Jamie,
I felt hot, pain, and an out of control surge.  When you left, Jamie
and I continued, but it was an overwhelming surge.  Then afterwards,
the heat was intense and the pain was gone."
        "You are almost human.  Oh here, I managed to get these
along the way."  Nick said pleased handing him a silver box.
        LaCroix warmly accepted the gift, and carefully opened it. 
Inside he saw it was divided in half, and pills on each side. 
LaCroix looked up over to Nick and appeared puzzled.
        "That's vitamin B6 and B12."  Nick told him, "That's what
Natalie started me with.  It will be a little rough at first, but
your body will adjust."
        "Thank you.  Now, let's go upstairs and discuss our personal
matter in private."  LaCroix suggested.
        LaCroix stood up as Nick joined him, and they slowly walked
over to the stairs then entered LaCroix's room for a private father
and son talk about sex and life in general.
        
        Down at the docks, Adam slowly entered the small room
carrying a black metal box.  Molly was curled up in the far corner;
Adam stood five feet away from her and knelt down to face her. 
Molly, quivering and scared, looked towards him then turned away.
        "Molly Knight, are you hungry?  I have this candy bar for
you."  Adam inquired.
        Molly sniffed her tears back, "No,"
        "Fine," Adam uttered.
        Molly glanced back; Adam unaware, carefully opened the black
metal box and carefully removed a screw driver from his left pant
pocket.  He gently connected the digital timer to the silver box
inside.  His bomb was ready to be set, and armed.  Adam carefully
stood up carrying the box to the other side of the room, and placed
the box down in the corner.  Molly observed every move he made, and
Adam returned to Molly's side.  He gently stroked her head then left
her alone dropping the candy bar at her feet.
        
        LaCroix had stretched out on the couch, and Nick joined him
after exiting the bathroom.  Nick sat down in the far corner of the
couch in a daze.  LaCroix noticed his manner turning to face him, and
tapped his left knee to draw his attention.
        "Nicholas."  LaCroix said, but no response, "Nicholas,"
        "What?"  Nick asked in a whispered sigh.
        "What's wrong?"  LaCroix asked.
        Nick sighed, "Molly, I miss her so much."
        LaCroix looked to Nick, "As I do Jamie."
        "True," Nick said; "If he hurt her…"
        "Stop."  LaCroix insisted firmly, "Don't do this.  She's
fine, have faith.  She will be back soon."
        "It's hard not to."  Nick replied sadly.
        LaCroix leaned forward placing his hand upon Nick's leg, "I
know.  Let's get some sleep. You need to be alert to find her, and
Jamie comes home tomorrow."
        "When Molly comes home; we'll have a cozy night at the loft.
We can play a game called, 'Truth or Dare,'" Nick said.
        "Done.  Tell me what it is later."  LaCroix replied, "Night,
Nicholas."
        "Night, Lucien."  Nick warmly returned.
        Nick slid down laying upon the couch, and LaCroix sacked out
on his bed.  LaCroix turned the lights off, and they slowly drifted
off to sleep.  LaCroix could hear Nick sniffing slightly as he tossed
and turned on the couch trying to sleep.
        
        The night hours slowly passed into daylight.  The sun shined
high above Toronto.  LaCroix's alarm sounded rolling over and turning
it off. LaCroix rose and sat along the edge of the bed.  He stretched
his upper body, and glanced over to Nick sleeping soundly.  LaCroix
laughed slightly and stood up walking over to the couch.  He leaned
over and gently shook Nick's hands laying on his stomach.  Nick
slowly opened his eyes, and saw LaCroix's smile.
        "I'm going to shower.  Pick out some clothes then you can
shower.  I will have some food waiting for you."  LaCroix suggested.
        "All right, thanks."  Nick replied half asleep, "Can I use
it before you shower?"
        "Sure," LaCroix replied.
        Nick slowly rose to his feet giving his body a huge stretch.
He walked around the couch and into the bathroom.  Unaware of the
door still open, he stood by the toilet and a few moments passed then
a flush echoed.  He zipped up stepping over to the sink and washed
his hands.  Nick dried his hands with the towel hanging on a rack by
his right side, and strolled back into the room with LaCroix standing
by the couch.  Nick slowly approached LaCroix, and lowered his face
away.  LaCroix sighed slightly, and warmly touched Nick's arm.
        "Nicholas, what is it?"  LaCroix asked.
        Nick paused slightly, "Molly,"
        LaCroix exhaled, "I know.  She'll be home soon."
        Nick slowly walked into LaCroix's arms, and LaCroix embraced
his son to ease his heartache.  Nick cried slightly to release his
pain, and stepped back.  He wiped his eyes, and looked to his father.
        "Feel better?"  LaCroix inquired concern for him.
        "No, I'll get some clothes; go ahead and shower."  Nick
said, "Oh, something you should be aware of.  Allen and I found a
list of names.  It has Carla and Jamie.  But also, our names on it."
        "Why?"  LaCroix asked.
        "Because, I'm in the way, and you are protecting Jamie and
me."  Nick explained.
        "I see.  What of Paul and Carla?"  LaCroix inquired.
        "I haven't told him yet."  Nick replied.
        LaCroix exhaled, "He has the right to know."
        "I know," Nick said.
        LaCroix inhaled, "I'll be out in a few moments."
        "All right."  Nick whispered.
        LaCroix gave Nick a warm squeeze upon his upper arm, and
strolled into the bathroom closing the door behind him.  LaCroix
started his shower while Nick poked into LaCroix's dresser for
clothes.  Nick heard the water being turned off, and LaCroix exited
wearing a towel.  Nick snickered slightly and took his turn in the
shower.  LaCroix got dressed walking out of his room and into the
club's dance hall.  He strolled behind the bar preparing hot coffee
and placed a few rolls on a plate for Nick.  Nick slowly entered the
room wearing black jeans, a white t-shirt with his jacket.  Nick
placed a bag onto the stool next to him, and sat down on the other. 
LaCroix carefully poured his coffee, and placed the plate of rolls in
front of him.
        "It's not fancy, but its food."  LaCroix said.
        Nick exhaled, "Its fine.  I'm not that hungry."
        LaCroix placed his left hand on the bar pushing the plate
with his right, "You need your strength.  Eat."
        "All right."  Nick whispered.
        LaCroix grinned, "Thanks.  What's in the bag?"
        Nick chewing his food, "My clothes."
        They quietly enjoyed light conversation when Allen strolled
in from outside, and stood by Nick's side.  Nick looked up swallowing
the last bite, and saw the disgust look in his eyes.  Nick knew
something was wrong.  LaCroix hung close in case it was about Molly. 
Nick slowly stood to face him.
        "Is it Molly?"  Nick asked terrified all over.
        Allen exhaled, "No, no, no.  I'm sure she's fine.  It's
Tank.  He's been found at the alleyway on fifty-two and third street;
dead."
        "What?"  Nick asked shocked.
        "Yep.  Sorry, Lucien, how are you?"  Allen inquired.
        LaCroix sighed, "I'm fine.  You two go ahead.  I will see
you later Nicholas."
        "Yes.  Call me."  Nick suggested.
        "I will.  Becareful."  LaCroix said.
        Nick grinned slightly at LaCroix, and followed Allen up the
stairs to the outside.  Nick unlocked the doors, and they climbed in.
Nick started the engine while Allen placed the red light in the
window, and Nick drove quickly to the alley that Allen had mentioned.
Nick spotted the cruisers lined up along the curb, and parked behind
them.  They climbed out, and slowly walked along the sidewalk.  They
carefully approached the edge of the alley, and saw Kathy and Reese
standing off to the side.  They walked over and stood by Kathy's
right side.
        "Hey, guys."  Allen said.
        Reese exhaled glaring at Nick, "I heard about Molly.  Any
word yet?"
        "No," Nick whispered, "Still working on it.  What you got
here?"
        "Jack Dion, a.k.a., Tank.  This was serious overkill.  He
was shot six times, and has multiple stab wounds.  Here are some
gloves.  Becareful, there's blood and flesh everywhere.  I'll see you
guys back at the lab later."  Kathy briefed them.
        "Thanks, Doc."  Nick said.
        Nick and Allen slowly slipped the gloves on glancing at each
other, and cautiously entered the alley.  The sight was horrifying
beyond words could ever express.  Tank lied in the middle of the
alley blood surrounding his body.  Nick and Allen slowly inhaled then
exhaled, and carefully walked towards the body, but there was no way
to avoid the pools of blood.  Allen roamed left while Nick roamed the
right side.  They examined the body very closely then slowly walked
back to Kathy.  She held out a bag for their gloves.  They angrily
peeled the gloves off placing them into the bag, and exhaled loudly.
        "Well, guys."  Reese inquired.
        Allen cleared his throat, "It was difficult to see anything,
but I'm willing to bet Adam's name is all over him."
        "Agreed.  Nick."  Reese requested his opinion.
        "Sadly, Kathy will have to tell us."  Nick told him very
frustrated.
        Reese glared at him, "All right, meet up at the station. 
Knight, anymore calls?"
        Nick inhaled, "No!"
        Reese watched him, "Straton, how's he handling it?"
        "About as good as you or I would.  We need him here.  He's
the only one Adam is calling right now, so…"  Allen explained.
        "I know.  Stay with him.  Oh, Paul knows about the trade
threat; he's at the station waiting for you.  Get moving."  Reese
told him.
        "Great.  We were hoping to spare him."  Allen said walking
over to Nick.
        Reese sighed loudly looking towards Kathy, "It's in you're
ball park.  Let us know."
        Allen watched Reese drive away leaning over grabbing Nick's
forearm, "Hey, man, Paul knows."
        "Damn it."  Nick said leaning his back side upon the hood of
the caddy.
        "Maybe he can help."  Allen suggested.
        Nick scoffed slightly, "I will not let Carla get hurt
again." he said as his cell phone rang, "Knight,"
        "Hello, Knight, have you decided?"  Adam asked.
        "Adam, I want to talk to Molly first."  Nick requested.
        Adam sighed, "Fine,"
        "Nick," Molly cried.
        Nick inhaled, "Don't worry love, I'll find you."
        "I love you."  Molly whispered.
        "Enough.  Well?"  Adam inquired.
        Nick exhaled, "Two things.  One, don't hurt her, and two,
we're on our way to talk to Carla.  Call me back, and talk to her."
        "We'll see."  Adam said hanging up.
        Nick hung up his cell phone, and placed it into his pocket. 
Allen saw Nick's blood pressure slowly rising.
        "Hey, what did he say?"  Allen inquired.
        "I heard her; she's fine but upset."  Nick said.
        "Understandable.  What about talking to Carla?"  Allen
replied.
        "We'll see.  Let's head to the station."  Nick said.
        "I'm driving, no buts."  Allen insisted.
        Nick smirked slightly, "All right."
        They quickly climbed into the car, and Allen started the
engine.  He drove away from the curb, and quickly headed for the
station.  Allen drove up along its curb and parked the car.  He
handed the keys back to Nick, and they quickly climbed out running up
the stairs inside the building.  Nick saw Paul waiting in Allen's
office.  Nick silently requested a few moments alone.  He strolled to
the far right corner opening Allen's office door then closed it. 
Paul stepped up to him glaring at his face, and extended his arms to
his friend.  Nick fell into his embrace and they held each other. 
Paul took a few steps back to see his pain.
        "Why didn't you tell me?"  Paul asked.
        Nick sighed, "You had enough to worry about."
        "Shame on you.  Reese and I talked about this with Carla. 
Let's plan it out."  Paul told him.
        "Paul," Nick said.
        "Nick, Buddy.  You're my best and closest friend, and I love
you.  I won't let Molly get hurt or Carla.  We have an idea that may
work.  A way Carla and Molly will come home safe and sound."  Paul
expressed warmly.
        Nick smiled, "Feelings mutual.  Come on."
        Everyone involved stood around Nick's desk.  Carla stepped
in from the ladies room and faced Nick.  Nick embraced her warmly and
she smiled in return.  Reese scanned the surroundings, and cleared
his throat.
        "All right.  Everyone is aware of the case, and the
kidnapping of Molly Ebourn."  Reese stated, "Good.  Adam has been
calling Nick.  He wants Carla for Molly.  Paul has come up with a
plan to get Molly back and keep Carla.  Adam goes down regardless. 
Paul, the floor is yours."  Reese briefed them.
        Paul cleared his throat, "Okay, next time he calls have
Carla talk to him.  Nick told me he made that suggestion to him. 
We're waiting to see if he calls.  We set up a trade date and time
then we take him down.  We'll leave it in Allen's hands to plan the
set-up with George in case he has another bomb.  Thoughts; ideas."
        "What if there is another bomb?"  Nick asked.
        George stepped in, "Let the trade take place.  Carla can get
him to turn it off." he said.
        "What?"  Paul said loudly.
        Carla moved closer to Paul, "Hey, it's all right.  If he
loves me like he says he does; he will do anything for me.  We need
Molly back safe."
        "I know, but…"  Paul started.
        "I promise Carla and Molly will be safe.  Allen said firmly,
"Nick plan it so that you and Paul take her in.  Carla play the
farewell to Paul big time.  Paul, you object to the idea while Nick
grabs Molly."
        "Got it," Nick said.  Suddenly, his cell phone rang, "Knight,"
        "Where's Carla?"  Adam asked.
        "Hold on.  Carla," Nick said handing the phone to her.
        Carla nervously took the phone, and placed it to her ear,
"Adam,"
        "Carla, I'm so sorry you were hurt, but Paul doesn't deserve
you."  Adam said.
        Carla sighed, "No, he doesn't.  How's my friend Molly?"
        "Fine, at the moment."  Adam answered.
        "Please don't hurt her, she's my best friend.  I didn't
realize how much you loved me.  Can we trade?  Let Molly go, and I'll
meet you."  Carla requested.
        "What about Paul?"  Adam asked.
        Carla looked to Paul, "You love me more, and I'll leave him
for you.  What do you say?"
        Adam hesitated a moment, "I'll call you tomorrow."
        Carla handed the phone back to Nick, "Well?"
        "He'll call back tomorrow."  Carla said.
        Nick felt his rage intensifying, his blood pressure rising
and quickly left the building.  Carla turned to Paul, and he gently
kissed her as he followed Nick outside.  Nick stood outside leaning
up against his car extremely tense.  Paul carefully walked over
standing directly in front of him.
        "I'm losing it man.  I want Molly; I miss her so much.  I
miss…"  Nick uttered.
        "I know."  Paul replied.
        "NO!"  Nick yelled, "She's been gone three days and two
nights."
        "Hey, man, it sucks.  We will get him.  Carla made him an
offer he can't refuse.  I'll tell you what, you go help Lucien bring
Jamie home, hang out and meet me at Kathy's lab in about two hours. 
Deal."  Paul suggested.
        "Thanks.  See you then."  Nick replied agreeing.
        Paul stepped closer to him, "Hey, remember what I said
earlier?"
        "Yeah, I know."  Nick answered.
        "Okay, friend.  You need time away to think, I will handle
Tank's home with Allen.  The Three Musketeers ride again.  Now, go
away."  Paul demanded politely.
        Nick smiled, "Big party at my place."
        "Done.  I'll call Lucien and tell him you'll meet him at the
hospital.  Bye."  Paul said forcefully.
        Nick strolled around climbing in and started the engine.  He
gave Paul one last wave and pulled away from the curb.  As Paul
watched him drive away; he pulled out his cell phone and called
LaCroix.
        "Hello."  LaCroix said answering his phone.
        Paul cleared his throat, "Hey, Lucien, it's Paul.  Nick's on
his way to you to help bring Jamie home.  His gasket is ready to
blow.  We need to calm him down.  He loves you, can you help him?"
        "Oh dear.  Yes, I will talk to him.  Thank you."  LaCroix
replied.
        "Thanks man, later."  Paul said hanging up.
        LaCroix hung up his phone as Jamie reached out to embrace
him.  She saw the concern and pain in his eyes.  She felt his body
very tense and cold.
        Jamie sighed slightly, "Lucien, what is it?"
        LaCroix glanced at her then turned away, "Nicholas.  Paul
said he's going over the edge."
        Jamie moaned a touch, "Poor, Nicholas.  His heart is truly
breaking.  Everyone is going home except for Molly.  When we get
home, you sit with him at the bar while I rest.  Talk to him about
places he's been and people he's talked to.  Maybe it will set off a
bell.  Invite Allen or Paul to join in."
        "Wonderful idea."  LaCroix agreed.
        "You need to help him think straight."  Jamie replied.
        LaCroix grinned, "You know how much I love you?"
        Jamie smiled warmly, "As much as I love you, and more."
        LaCroix placed a gentle kiss upon the back of her hand, "So
true."
        A slight knock echoed from the door, and Nick slowly
strolled in.  He quietly approached the bed, and leaned over kissing
Jamie upon her soft cheek.  Nick leaned back embracing LaCroix.  Nick
sniffed a touch, and looked to Jamie.
        "How are you?"  Nick asked.
        "I'm fine.  Let's go."  Jamie said eagerly to leave.
        LaCroix helped Jamie while Nick carried her bag and followed
them to the underground garage where Nick had parked.  Nick quickly
stepped out to lead the way.  He placed the bag up front while Jamie
crawled into the backseat, and Nick quickly opened the trunk for
LaCroix.  LaCroix scoffed a little as he climbed into the trunk and
Nick closed it.  Nick climbed in starting the engine and drove out of
the garage heading for the Raven at the rear entrance.  Scott saw the
caddy coming, and the door was ready for LaCroix.  Nick requested
Scott to take Jamie, and he would assist LaCroix.  Nick opened the
trunk holding the door open, and LaCroix quickly climbed out running
inside.  Nick closed the trunk, and entered the club following
LaCroix to the bar.
        LaCroix gently kissed Jamie, and asked Scott to attend to
her needs.  He reached over filling two glasses with ice-cold water
and sat down by Nick.  Nick drank it about half way down, and belched
slightly.  LaCroix chuckled at him, and cleared his throat.
        "Nicholas, when Paul called about you're arrival; he said
you blew a gasket."  LaCroix informed him.
        "Molly," Nick whispered.
        LaCroix sighed rubbing his face, "All right Nicholas, listen
to me.  Allen will handle the pool hall and Jack's home.  Paul's
coming here before Kathy's lab.  You, my dear boy; you need to get a
handle your emotions."
        "What?"  Nick uttered in shock.
        LaCroix inhaled to maintain his emotions for Nick's welfare,
"Nicholas, you need to handle this to find her, one wrong move or
word, and she's dead."
        "No!"  Nick yelled.
        "Easy.  Now, let's go back to the phone calls you received. 
Did you hear anything in the background?"  LaCroix asked.
        "No," Nick answered.
        "What about the places you examined?"  LaCroix inquired.
        Nick hesitated, "The pool hall, their homes and Tank in the
alley.  That's it."
        "Hey, guys.  Where are we?"  Paul yelled running down the
stairs, and joined them at the bar.
        Nick smiled slightly, "The phone calls."
        "Anything?" Paul inquired.
        Nick exhaled frustrated, "No," 
        Paul placed his hand upon Nick's upper back, "Okay, relax. 
Carla said she heard wind in the background."
        "Wind," LaCroix repeated clearly.
        Paul inhaled, "Yeah, but she also said it's a different kind
of wind from trees blowing."
        Nick, very confused, "Different, how?"
        "I don't know.  She can't think of it, but we have heard it
before; somewhere else."  Paul replied.
        "We have."  Nick said.
        "Yeah.  Okay, Allen handled the pool hall, and he will tell
Tank's mother.  You and I will have fun at the lab.  You okay?"  Paul
said.
        "I'm trying.  Let's go see Kathy.  Thanks, Lucien."  Nick
said.
        LaCroix smirked, "That's what family is for.  If Jamie and I
are not here, make yourself at home."
        "I should go home.  The loft must need a cleaning."  Nick
said.
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "No, its not safe for you yet. 
Besides, Scott's been caring for it until Molly's home.  Come here."
        Nick stunned with a slight grin, "Yes sir."
        "Bye, Nicholas."  LaCroix said.
        "Bye, Lucien, thank you."  Nick said squeezing LaCroix's
forearm warmly.
        Nick and Paul slowly walked away up the stairs, and outside.
LaCroix stayed and cleared the bar.  They climbed into the caddy, and
Nick started the engine.  He carefully drove away from the curb, and
headed for the Forensics building.  Nick noticed the building off to
his left, and drove along side of the curb parking the car.  He
turned the engine off climbing out of the car, and they ran up the
stairs inside of Kathy's lab.  They quietly entered the lab seeing
Kathy and Rubert hunched over Tank's body closely examining his
chest.  Paul approached Kathy with Nick close behind.  Kathy saw him
out the corner of her eye, and smiled.
        "Hi kids.  What you got?"  Paul asked.
        Kathy exhaled, "Hey.  Hi, Nick, anything yet?"
        "No," Nick whispered.
        "Hi, Rubert." Paul said to greet him.
        Rubert looked up, "Hello, hello Nick."
        "Hey," Nick sighed.
        Kathy cleared her throat, "Okay, try and follow us."
        "Beginning to end.  Leave nothing, even if its very
minimum." Paul requested.
        "Okay, but I'll send your copy over later to Lisa.  Jack
Dion, a.k.a., Tank.  He was thirty-two years old, red hair and brown
eyes.  Five foot eight and about one hundred eighty pounds.  Six
bullet wounds; three in the head, two in the heart and one in the
groin area.  Also, about sixty to sixty-five stab wounds.  Its about
an eight inch knife in length and a steel blade.  Serious over kill."
Kathy informed them.
        "Man," Paul whispered.
        Rubert gasped loudly drawing Nick's attention, "Wait a
minute," he said, "What's this?"
        "What is it?"  Nick asked.
        Rubert picked up a pair of tweezers, and lifted something
from his jeans, "Fibers, and they seem to be blue with a hint of
green on it.  I'll call you later."
        Rubert quickly left the lab to the other lab at the opposite
side of the building to analysis the fibers.  Nick turned to Kathy
with a stunned look in his eyes.
        "Kathy, the fibers?"  Nick inquired.
        Kathy inhaled, "It may tell us where he was before he was
killed.  He will call you, don't worry." she told him, "Where you
going now?"
        "Food, we're starving and we're meeting Allen there.  Call
us a.s.a.p."  Paul requested.
        "I promise, I will."  Kathy said.
        Paul exhaled, "Thanks, good.  Let's go, Buddy.  Allen's
waiting; its pizza time."
        "I guess," Nick whispered.
        "Move, and give me the keys.  I want a turn."  Paul
requested strongly.
        Kathy laughed slightly as Paul shoved Nick out of the lab,
and outside.  Nick handed the keys to Paul as they climbed in, and
Paul started the engine.  He carefully pulled away from the curb, and
drove to Charlie's pizza place near Nick's loft.  Paul quickly drove
along the curb and parked on the right side of the building.  He
turned the engine off handing the keys back to Nick, and they climbed
out.  They walked along the sidewalk inside of the restaurant, and
saw Allen waving from a booth in the far left corner.  They strolled
over, and joined him.  Paul joined Allen while Nick sat alone.
        A waiter approached carrying two pizzas and carefully placed
them in the center of the table.  When he left, a waitress came up
with a pitcher of beer, and three frosty mugs.  They sat there
quietly and enjoyed a hot meal.
        
        However, at the Raven, LaCroix strolled into the room, and
saw Jamie dressed.  He slowly approached her embracing her tightly. 
She returned the embrace with a slight giggle.  LaCroix stepped back
to gaze upon her warm smile.
        LaCroix grinning, "Why are you all dressed and not resting?"
        "You promised me a ride, and test the shocks earlier. 
Remember."  Jamie suggested.
        LaCroix slightly stunned, "Are you up and ready for that?"
        Jamie seductively stroked his chest downward to his belt,
"Are you?"
        LaCroix laughed a little, "Let's go find out.  The sun is
down and the sky is filled with stars.  Come on."
        LaCroix gently escorted Jamie out of their room through the
club, and out the back door to the car.  LaCroix opened her door, and
she climbed in.  LaCroix walked around to his side climbing in, and
started the engine.  He carefully backed up and drove down the alley.
LaCroix drove to the place that Nick had mentioned that he and Molly
parked.  LaCroix spotted the dirt road and slowly drove down entering
the clearing, and parked near the oak tree.  They climbed out moving
the seats as far up as they would go, and climbed into the backseat. 
They gazed out the rear window for a moment at the stars and the
moonlight shining high above them.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "Yes," Jamie softly answered.
        LaCroix sighed gazing into her innocent eyes, "I was so
frightened when you were hurt.  I feared I would lose you."
        Jamie exhaled smiling, "No way.  I love you."
        "I love you so, but still, I had never felt that way, except
for Nicholas.  But with you, it's different."  LaCroix said.
        Jamie warmly snuggled close to him, "Darling, that's so
sweet of you." she said, but noticed the new expression on his face,
"What is it?"
        LaCroix slightly stunned, "Feel for yourself."
        LaCroix gently took her hand, and placed it upon his
hardness.  LaCroix looked to Jamie very surprised.  Jamie grinned and
smiled, "Lucien, did you actually feel this occur?"
        LaCroix smiled, "Yes.  I felt it as we were talking.  It was
warm and a little exciting."
        "Go on."  Jamie said.
        LaCroix shyly speaking, "I also feel anxious and the arousal
is slowly intensifying."
        "Tell me more later, so am I."  Jamie said breathing
erratically.
        Jamie slowly began to stroke him and LaCroix kissed her
passionately.  As he did, he felt every motion of her hand, the surge
pulsating and his heat rising.  Jamie slowly unzipped his fly while
LaCroix moved his pants to his knees.  Jamie, leaving her hand on
him, stroking him, moved slowly and sat upon his lap.  LaCroix,
stunned by the new experience he's feeling, placed his hands around
her waist.  He moaned softly with every move she made.  She slowly
removed her hand, and LaCroix was deep inside.  He felt her heat, the
wetness of her arousal.  Jamie wrapped her arms around his neck,
LaCroix whispered her name, and she moved more quickly, but deeply
surrounding him.  'Jamie, I feel,' LaCroix whispered as he felt his
first full sexual arousal experience.  He felt his essence surging
and pulsating.  Jamie held him tight as he felt his essence surge
into her.  They held on tight, LaCroix buried his face into her warm
breasts and hard nipples.  Jamie moaning slightly while LaCroix
breathed erratically out of control.
        Jamie noticed him leaning back, "What is it Lucien?"
        LaCroix looking up at her, "I felt everything, all of it."
        Jamie smiled with a tear rolling down her soft rosy cheek,
"You have regained your full sexual drive.  Fantastic."
        "Yes, it's so amazing, its been so long."  LaCroix shared
with her.
        Jamie inhaled, "Yes it was."
        LaCroix smiled with watery eyes, "Again,"
        Jamie giggled, "Again,"
        "Yeah," LaCroix requested.
        "You're on."  Jamie said slowly stroking him.
        They spent most of the time there making love, and enjoying
LaCroix's new experience.
        
        Back at Charlie's; they had just finished the pizza and
enjoying the last few drops of the cold beer.  Nick let out a loud
yawn with a slight belch, and stretched his back.  Paul looked to
Allen laughing and pointing towards Nick.
        "Nick, are we keeping you awake?"  Paul asked.
        Nick laughed, "No, but its time to head home.  I'm tired and
need a shower." 
        "Well, that's what happens when you eat a whole pizza, you
get tired.  When was your last meal?"  Allen inquired.
        Nick paused, "Don't know.  My place."
        Paul sighed, "Lucien said…"
        "I know.  I need new clothes.  I'm wearing his.  Come on." 
Nick replied.
        Paul exhaled giving up, "Then the Raven or Lucien will have
my head.  Okay."
        "All right."  Nick agreed.
        They each placed some money upon the table, and slid out
from the booth.  They exited the restaurant, and climbed into Nick's
caddy.  Nick started the engine driving slowly away from the curb in
an angle, and over then up into the alleyway.  He slowly drove into
the parking garage and parked next to the elevator.  Nick turned the
engine off, and they climbed out.  They headed for the elevator. 
Allen pushing the button, and the doors slid open.  They carefully
stepped in as Nick pushed the number two button, and the doors
closed.  The elevator slowly rode upward, and opened into Nick's
living room.  Nick was amazed how clean his loft was, but very lonely
and empty without Molly.
        Nick tossed his jacket into the chair, "Okay, help
yourselves, but check it first.  I'm going to shower and change my
clothes.  Be back in a few."
        "Cool.  Let's raid the place."  Paul said grinning.
        "Later."  Nick sighed.
        Nick slowly climbed up the stairs strolling down the hall
and into his bedroom.  He glared at the bed knowing Molly hasn't been
in it.  His eyes became watery and painful.  He moved over to his
dresser, and removed a fresh set of clothes.  Nick tossed them onto
the bed walking into the bathroom.  He slowly stripped down tossing
the clothes into his hamper and faced the toilet.  A few moments
passed; a flush and turned to start the shower.  He carefully stepped
in, and cleaned every part of his body then rinsed out his golden
hair.  He leaned over turning the water off and carefully climbed
out.  Nick grabbed his towel drying his body, but noticed the towel
had a slight hint of Molly's perfume.  He hung the towel back up, and
strolled into the room by the bed.  He slowly got dressed, and walked
to his mirror to fix his hair.  Nick exited the bedroom into the
hall, and down the stairs.  He saw Paul and Allen sitting at the
kitchen table with a hot pot of coffee and mugs.  One mug was waiting
for him.  Nick strolled in, and sat down by Paul's side.  Paul poured
his coffee, and tapped the table to draw attention to him.
        "First Nick, feel better?"  Paul inquired.
        Nick exhaled slightly, "Yes,"
        "Good.  Now, Carla said the wind noise on the phone; she
said we have heard it before."  Paul told Allen.
        Allen paused, "Trees,"
        Paul shook his head, "No,"
        Nick slightly ran his finger along the rim of his mug, "We
have heard this before."
        Paul nodded his head, "The last time the four of us were
together."
        They grew very silent staring at their coffee mugs in deep
thought.  Suddenly, Nick leaned forward resting his arms on the table
eyes lighting up and quickly turned towards Paul.  Paul saw the light
shining through, and inhaled.
        "What?"  Paul asked.
        Nick whispered, "Lighthouse,"
        Paul gasped, "Lighthouse, the water."
        "Yo, guys."  Allen uttered confused.
        Paul turned his head to face him, "The Lighthouse at the
beach.  Where we proposed to the girls.  You think?"
        Allen waving his hands, "Slow down a few.  That's a pretty
far trip.  He wouldn't have the time, and he would be spotted."
        Nick thought for a few, "Docks,"
        Paul snapped his fingers, "Close to the docks, but closer to
the beach.  Oh my, algae."
        "What?"  Nick asked.
        "Remember the green stuff Rubert found.  What if its algae
from the water."  Paul suggested.
        "Let's go."  Nick said eagerly.
        Allen grabbed Nick's arm, "No, wait."
        "Molly," Nick said firmly.
        Allen exhaled, "I know, Buddy.  But if we fly in there;
he'll kill her.  We need to search, and be sure.  Let's head for
home, rest and meet at the station tomorrow with George and my guys
to plan a huge search party."
        "But…"  Nick uttered slightly upset.
        Paul placed his hand upon Nick's shoulder, "Hey, don't
worry.  We will get her and nail him.  Time to go back to the Raven
with Lucien.  Come on."
        "Let's clean and lock up first."  Nick suggested.
        They slowly stood up strolling into the kitchen carrying
their dishes.  They washed and cleaned up, and exited the loft.  Nick
locked the door behind him following his friends to the elevator. 
They quickly rode down to the parking garage, and out to Nick's car. 
They bided each other farewell, and Nick climbed into the car while
they rode the local bus.  Nick started the engine, and backed out
down the alley.  He quickly drove to the Raven and parked around
back.  He turned the engine off, and climbed out.  He used his key to
open the door, and entered the club.  As he approached the dance
floor, he could hear people talking and laughing.
        Nick carefully walked in and saw LaCroix sitting on a stool
with Jamie between his legs kissing passionately.  Nick jokingly
applauded them, and Jamie laughed while LaCroix buried his face into
Jamie's breasts totally embarrassed.  Nick walked over and stood by
LaCroix with his elbow leaning upon the bar.  Jamie winked at Nick,
and slowly walked away as LaCroix glued his eyes on her until she
vanished.  Nick lightly slapped his arm to draw his eyes back to him.
        "Down boy."  Nick replied.
        LaCroix scoffed at him, "Cute,"
        Nick laughed, "We think we know where Molly is."
        LaCroix faced him directly, "Where?"
        "Near water.  The Lighthouse, or around there, but near a
beach.  Carla heard wind over the phone but it was a different sound
then tree's."  Nick told him.
        LaCroix smiled warmly, "Wonderful."
        Nick noticed something calming about LaCroix's manner,
"Something happened, you seem different."
        LaCroix smirked widely, "Two things.  One, the shocks are in
great shape."
        Nick blushed, "You did it.  How was it?"
        "And two, I experienced a full sexual encounter; before,
during, and after."  LaCroix shared happily.
        Nick smiled slapping him on his upper back, "Wonderful."
        LaCroix taking a slight bow, "Thank you.  It was
exhilarating, to say mildly."
        "No doubt.  I'll sack out in Scott's bed in the backroom. 
I'll see you, maybe, in the morning."  Nick said chuckling.
        "Maybe," LaCroix replied, a little lost.
        Nick cleared his throat, "Guess.  Night, Lucien."
        LaCroix slowly stood up fixing his belt, "I intend to. 
Night, Nicholas."
        LaCroix slowly walked away into the backroom while Nick
entered Scott's room.  LaCroix opened his door, and saw Jamie lying
on the bed wearing only her black-lace nighty.  LaCroix couldn't help
but smile widely slowly approaching the bed, and laid down by her
side.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Jamie, you look inviting."
        Jamie smiled, "Thank you.  What do you feel now?"
        LaCroix smiled, "Well, I believe this is the best hard-on I
have had yet."
        "Whoa, I'm honored.  What shall we do about it?"  Jamie
inquired.
        LaCroix paused a few kicking his shoes off, and moved closer
to her, "Push ups,"
        Jamie laughed, "Goodie,"
        They slowly undressed each other kissing passionately. 
LaCroix firmly massaged Jamie's firm breasts as her nipples became
raised and hard.  Jamie slowly stroked his hardness as he became even
harder.  Jamie rolled onto her back as LaCroix carefully rolled in
between her warm thighs.  Jamie moaned as LaCroix went deep inside of
her.  As LaCroix moved, Jamie moaned breathing erratically.  LaCroix
felt the heat of his body rising along with his labored breathing. 
Jamie slowly began to move with him, and LaCroix felt his essence
slowly approaching.  The closer he came, the faster and deeper he
went.  Jamie clinched her fingers into the blanket with his heat fast
approaching.  LaCroix grabbing hold of her and with one quick
downward stroke his essence exploded inside as Jamie shook her body
from their intense climax.  Their bodies were intertwine, sweaty and
slightly shaky.  Their breathing erratic and LaCroix gently rested
his head upon her breasts.  Jamie slowly stroked his upper back and
his head.  They lovingly held each other tight.
        "Lucien," Jamie said slightly shaky.
        LaCroix raised his face to see her eyes, "Yes,"
        Jamie inhaled, "That was,"
        "Yes," LaCroix said softly.
        Jamie smiled, "Fantastic,"
        LaCroix laughed, "Yes it was,"
        Suddenly, Jamie shook slightly, and moaned.  LaCroix moved
slightly lying by her side gazing into her loving eyes.
        "Sorry," LaCroix whispered.  "You all right."
        "Yes, you're smiling still."  Jamie said.
        LaCroix chuckled, "Yes, because of you and they have a clue
of where Molly might be."
        Jamie smiled widely hugging him, "Wonderful.  Nicholas is
hurting so much for too long."
        "True," LaCroix agreed.  "I mentioned my new experience to
him."
        Jamie inhaled, "And?"
        "He was thrilled for me, but mostly for us."  LaCroix quoted
Nick.
        "He's so sweet.  We should plan a welcome for Molly's
return."  Jamie suggested.
        LaCroix thought for the moment, "We shall, later."
        "Why later?"  Jamie asked.
        "Because we're busy right now."  LaCroix answered.
        "We are?" Jamie queried.
        "Yes, round two."  LaCroix said warmly leaning over kissing
her seductively.
        
        The night hours slowly faded away into daylight.  At Paul
and Carla's apartment, Paul rolled over hugging Carla's mid-section. 
Carla slowly woke up rubbing his arm, and opened her eyes to a warm
smile on his face.
        "What is it?"  Carla asked.
        "Lighthouse or a beach near here."  Paul replied.
        Carla inhaled, "Molly,"
        "Yes," Paul said.  "Allen will send out search parties, but
the trade is still on."
        Carla warmly stroked his cheek, "All right.  How's Nick
holding up?"
        "He's a mess, but trying.  Lucien's been a tremendous
comfort to him."  Paul replied.
        Carla cuddled up next to him, "Their family; they love each
other.  Lucien is someone very special."
        "Yes he is.  That's why we're friends."  Paul replied.
        Carla stroked his chest then his arm, "We have a little time
to play, now what?"
        Paul laughed rolling over caressing her, "Guess,"
        Carla giggled as they intertwine their bodies making love
all morning.  
        
        However, at the Raven, Nick was at the bar making a fresh
pot of coffee when LaCroix entered from the backroom.  LaCroix leaned
upon the bar, and watched.  Nick noticed him out of the corner of his
eye, and placed a mug by his arm with a grin.
        "Morning, sleep well?"  LaCroix asked.
        "No, you?"  Nick replied.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Yes,"
        LaCroix and Nick share a quiet conversation when Allen
quickly entered the club, and ran down the stairs.  He sat down on a
stool, and Nick handed him his coffee.
        "What's up?"  Nick asked.
        Allen sipping his coffee, "Hey, guys.  Well, I talked to
George and my crew, and its all set up.  Sadly, we wait, and you and
I get to scare Brad today."
        "Sounds like fun, about Molly?"  Nick inquired.
        Allen exhaled tapping his forearm, "Relax, I have a team at
the Lighthouse, and the entire water front here.  He's going down,
until then, the trade is still on."
        "Okay," Nick whispered.
        "Come on, Buddy.  Hey, Lucien, what's shaken?"  Allen asked.
        "The usual."  LaCroix replied.
        Allen whistled waving for Nick to follow him, "You animal. 
Let's go Nick."
        "Yeah, before it starts to fly.  Later, Lucien."  Nick said
quickly walking around the bar, and followed Allen outside.
        LaCroix slightly laughed as he cleaned up the bar for
business.  Allen and Nick climbed into the car, but Allen noticed
Nick very still.  Allen tapped his forearm.
        "Hey, what's you thinking about?"  Allen asked.
        Nick exhaled, "Molly,"
        "I can't call them because he would hear them ring.  They
will call me.  After the pool hall; we'll check in with Kathy.  Paul
will meet us there later."  Allen told him.
        "Yeah," Nick whispered.
        "Come on, we're wasting play time."  Allen replied.
        Nick started the engine, and carefully pulled away from the
curb heading for the pool hall.  He saw the pool hall off to his
left, and drove along the curb parking at the front door.  They
climbed out, and slowly strolled inside.  There were about a handful
of people, but Allen spotted Brad at the far left corner.  Allen
tapped Nick's arm, and they walked over towards him standing along
each side of him.  Brad sensed trouble and became terrified of what
will be said.
        "Hello, Brad."  Allen said.
        "Hey," Brad said feeling very nervous.
        Nick exhaled clearing his throat, "Talk Brad.  Here or
downtown."
        Brad sighed, "About what?"
        Nick slid closer to Brad to face him directly, "I haven't
seen or talked to Molly in days.  I'm in a very bad mood.  Don't make
me ask twice, or I will hall your ass in, and work you over but good.
Now, answer the damn question."
        Brad saw the anger in his eyes, and heard it in his voice,
"Only if I get protection."
        "Fine, let's go."  Allen said grabbing him by his arm and
roughly escorting him out of the pool hall then outside to the car.
        Allen opened the rear passenger door, and shoved Brad in
closing the door.  Allen and Nick climbed in, and Nick started the
engine.  He carefully pulled away from the curb, and drove to the
police station.  Nick saw the station, and drove into the empty space
along the left side of the building.  He turned the engine off; they
climbed out and Allen helped Brad out from the backseat.
        As Nick and Allen escorted Brad inside, LaCroix had just
entered the room, and saw Jamie standing by the window staring into
the daylight.  LaCroix uttered her name, and she lowered the blinds
to block the sunlight.  Jamie walked over to LaCroix and embraced him.
        "Lucien, what is it?"  Jamie asked.
        LaCroix grinned, "Missed you."
        "Where's Nicholas?"  Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix exhaled, "He left for work."
        Jamie sniffed slightly, "Lucien, you smell like beer."
        LaCroix laughed, "Yes, a case had a broken bottle.  I need a
shower."
        "Hmm," Jamie mumbled, but then her cell phone rang.
        "You answer that then join me if you wish."  LaCroix replied.
        Jamie kissed his nose, "All right."
        LaCroix warmly stroked her soft cheek walking by her as she
reached for her phone.
        "Hello."  Jamie answered.
        "If you wish to see Molly alive, meet me by the docks under
Pier five in thirty minutes."  Adam demanded hanging up.
        
        Jamie hung up the phone writing down what was said and
quickly ran out of the room.  Jamie ran out the back door climbing
into the car, and quickly drove to the docks under Pier five.  She
parked the car by the docks turning the engine off, and climbed out. 
She carefully walked down the ramp onto the beach, and under Pier
five.  There she saw Adam holding a gun aimed directly at her.  She
took a few steps in to face him.  Adam held a hand up flat telling
her to stop then he started to smirk at her.
        "Where's Molly?"  Jamie asked.
        Adam inhaled walking towards her, "She's safe.  Follow me,
now."
        Jamie felt her fear rising, and slowly turned around as he
shoved her forward.  He took her by the arm, and walked towards a
van.  Adam opened the door, and they climbed in.  He handed Jamie the
keys, and instructed her where to drive.  After about thirty minutes
of driving, Jamie pulled onto a narrow dirt road that led to a cabin
in the woods by the lake.  Jamie turned the engine off, and they
climbed out.  Adam escorted Jamie into the cabin to the far right
door.  He opened the door, and there was a flight of stairs leading
to the basement.  He pushed Jamie up against a wall.  He gave her a
flashlight then closed locking the door behind her.  Jamie walked
down the stairs turning the light on to scan the room.
        There in the far left corner she saw Molly all curled up in
a ball shaking.  Jamie ran to her, and lightly touched her arm. 
Molly jumped terrified then noticed Jamie's face.  She quickly
embraced Jamie crying erratically Jamie held her until she calmed
down enough to talk.
        "Molly, are you all right?"  Jamie asked.
        "Jamie," Molly uttered.
        Jamie lifted her head to face her, "Molly, did he hurt you?"
        Molly sniffing her tears back, "No.  How's Nick?"
        "He's scared, worried, and missing you a lot."  Jamie said,
"But he's fine."
        "Why are you here?"  Molly inquired.
        "I don't know.  I received a phone call, and now I'm here." 
Jamie told her, "Don't worry, they will find us."
        Molly and Jamie hovered each other to calm and comfort one
another.  LaCroix strolled out of the bathroom fully dressed, but saw
that Jamie had left.  LaCroix noticed her note lying on the edge of
the bed.  He walked over picking it up to read, and his eyes filled
with fear.  LaCroix screamed for Scott.  LaCroix quickly left the
room running into Scott at the bar, and handed him the note.  Scott
read the message fearing the worst, and immediately called Nick on
his cell phone.
        
        One of Allen's men escorted Brad to a safe house while Allen
walked back to Nick at his desk.  Nick, staring at the floor, jumped
slightly as his phone rang.  He reached into his pocket pulling it
out, and pushed the button.
        "Knight," Nick announced.
        "Nicholas, it's Scott.  Jamie's been taken."  Scott told him.
        "What?"  Nick yelled.
        Allen watched him closely, and rubbed his face in fear.
        "I have a note here, with Lucien by me.  It says, 'if you
wish to see Molly alive, come to the docks under Pier five.'"  Scott
read the note to him.
        "All right.  Stay there with Lucien, and I'll check it out. 
I'll come there when I'm done."  Nick requested hanging up his phone.
        "What?"  Allen asked nervously.
        "Adam's got Jamie now."  Nick answered.
        Allen slammed his fist into his opened hand, "Damn it."
        "Pier five.  Call the guys in, let's roll."  Nick said
leading the way out of the building.
        They ran down the stairs running to the caddy, and climbed
in.  Nick started the engine, and Allen set up the siren and light. 
Nick quickly pulled away from the curb driving to Pier five at top
speed, and Allen called in a code red to that location.  As they
approached the docks, back-up pulled up behind them, and followed
them in.  They sealed off the area with the cruisers, Nick parked
near the ramp, and they climbed out.  Nick and Allen led the way down
and under Pier five with four other officers close behind.
        "All right.  Fan out, and search.  Be very careful where you
walk.  Anything can help us find her.  Go to it."  Allen ordered.
        They fanned out about three feet, and carefully scanned the
area.  Nick led one side while Allen led the other.  Suddenly, after
about an hour, an officer yelled out for Nick.  They quickly walked
over and looked downward at what he was pointing at.  Allen pulled
out a latex glove, and reached down picking up a small brown box with
Nick's name on it.  Allen slowly turned to face him, and gently
opened it.  Inside was a note with two diamond rings.  Nick felt his
anger rising.
        "Molly and Jamie's rings.  What does the note say?"  Nick
inquired.
        Allen handed the box to Nick, and carefully unfolded the
note, "Friday night, midnight, bring Carla."
        "Damn it."  Nick whispered.
        Allen yelled, "Hey guys, anything else?" 
        They shook their heads, and Allen waved them out.  Nick and
Allen hung out for a few, but Allen pulled out his cell phone.  He
called Paul to tell him to be at the Raven.
        "Let's go, hide that."  Allen said.
        "What?"  Nick asked.
        "Later, hide the rings.  Let's go see Lucien.  Come on." 
Allen said tugging him at the forearm.
        They quickly walked up the ramp to the car, and climbed in. 
Nick placed the box into his pocket, and started the engine.  He
backed up, and quickly drove to the Raven parking out front.  He
turned the engine off, and they climbed out.  They ran inside, and
saw Lucien leaning on the bar with Scott by his side.  They ran down
the stairs, and Paul suddenly entered following close behind them. 
LaCroix quickly turned to face Nick with his tear-filled eyes.  Nick
slowly pulled out the box, and showed the rings to LaCroix.  He tried
to reach in, but Nick hesitated.  Allen nodded his head, and LaCroix
removed Jamie's ring as Nick took Molly's.
        "I didn't see anything.  Paul?"  Allen asked.
        "See what?  What happened?"  Paul inquired.
        Nick exhaled, "Adam's got Jamie too, and the trades on for
Friday; midnight."
        "Damn it."  Paul said angrily.
        Allen thought for a moment, "All right, you two stay here. 
Paul, let's go see Rubert on those fibers.  Be back in a few."
        "Thanks," Nick whispered.
        "Hang in there."  Allen said.
        Paul slapped Nick's arm then Lucien's upper back.  Allen and
Paul quickly left the Raven for the Forensics building leaving Nick
and LaCroix alone.  Nick slowly sat down on the stool next to LaCroix
who was slowly rolling Jamie's ring in his fingers.  Nick placed
Molly's into his pant pocket.
        "Jamie," LaCroix whispered.
        "She'll be home with Molly."  Nick told him.
        LaCroix angrily sighed, "I could fly and find them."
        "How would you explain it?  What about your vow?"  Nick
questioned.
        "Jamie and Molly."  LaCroix answered.
        Nick exhaled, "I understand, but no.  I know its hard."
        Suddenly, the door opened, and Doctor Mason entered the
club.  He walked down the stairs, and stood by Nick.
        "Hello, gentlemen.  Something wrong?"  Dr. Mason asked.
        "Molly and Jamie were kidnapped.  We're on it.  What brings
you here?"  Nick replied.
        "I'm so sorry, but you missed your appointments, so I
thought I'd check in."  Dr. Mason said.
        LaCroix sighed, "Thank you."
        "Alright.  You want it separately or together?"  Dr. Mason
inquired.
        Nick glanced at LaCroix nodding, "Together is fine."
        "All right; Nicholas, you are fully human.  Nothing of your
vampire past exists.  You're sperm count is a touch high, but you are
fully functional.  Lucien, I received the new sample you sent me, and
tested it.  I'm shocked.  You have regained so much of your humanity,
and you're sperm count is almost normal to a human male.  Which
means, unless you want one, start using condoms.  Congratulations,
Lucien."  Dr. Mason briefed them.
        "Lucien, that's fantastic."  Nick said warmly, "We'll
celebrate when the girls come home."
        LaCroix sighed sadly, "Done."
        "Time to go.  I want to see the ladies when they do. 
Later."  Dr. Mason said slowly leaving the club.
        Nick turned back towards LaCroix, but before he could speak
his cell phone rang.  Nick reached into his pocket pulling it out,
and pushed the button.
        "Knight," Nick announced.
        "Knight, how's life?"   Adam asked.
        Nick gasped, "Where's Jamie?"
        Adam laughing sarcastically, "You mean your step-mother, and
Daddy, the big vampire."
        "Vampire.  What are you talking about?"  Nick questioned.
        Adam exhaled, "I'm not stupid.  There here and safe, for the
moment.  You and your Daddy bring me Carla and a million bucks or
their history."
        Nick slowly hung up his cell phone glancing at LaCroix, "He
knows."
        "Oh dear.  You know the rules Nicholas."  LaCroix said
refreshing his memory.
        "I know."  Nick replied, "Adam's changed the drop off.  He
wants us to bring Carla."
        Just as LaCroix stood up, Paul and Allen with Carla at
Paul's side entered the club and joined them at the bar.  Allen
noticed the silence in the air, and from them.
        "What happened?"  Allen asked.
        "Adam called.  He wants Lucien and me to bring Carla."  Nick
told them.
        "What?"  Paul said holding Carla closer.
        Allen let out a slight scream, "Fine, fine.  The fibers are
a rug of some sort, and that green stuff is algae.  We know he's near
water.  Damn, I hate this guy."
        Paul looked at his watch, "All right, its six o'clock, and
I'm starving."
        "I have food in the fridge.  Eat here."  LaCroix said.
        "Thanks, man.  Allen, any word yet?"  Paul asked.
        Suddenly, Allen's cell phone rang, "Maybe.  Straton."
        "Sir, we found a dirt road that leads to a small hut along
the lake." an agent informed him.
        "Yeah!"  Stay close and observe only.  Wait for my call." 
Allen said very excited, "Yeah, maybe something.  They found a dirt
road that leads to the lake."  
        Nick and LaCroix glanced at each other, "The clearing,"
        "The clearing," Allen repeated puzzled.
        Nick cleared his throat, "A make-out place."
        "Cool."  Paul said.
        Allen thought for a moment, "All right, us two in the truck,
and you two in the caddy.  Let's go see if it's him.  Lucien,
becareful.  You're not a cop or have a gun.  Stay very close to Nick."
        "Always have."  LaCroix replied.
        "Let's nail this asswhole's ass."  Allen said firmly rubbing
his hands together.
        They quickly walked up the stairs and outside.  They climbed
into their assigned cars, and slowly drove away from the curb.  Nick
led the way with Allen behind him to the hut by the lake in the
clearing.  As they approached; they turned the lights off then the
engines.  They quietly climbed out and met up at a cruiser with the
agent waiting patiently for Allen.
        "Rick, this is Nick, Lucien, Paul and Carla.  This is Rick. 
Do tell us."  Allen requested.
        "I haven't seen anyone coming or going, but there has been a
candle burning.  Someone is in there."  Rick reported.
        "All right, thanks.  Paul, Nick, follow me.  Lucien and
Carla stay here with Rick."  Allen ordered.
        "Nicholas," LaCroix said slightly edgy.
        "Don't worry."  Nick replied.
        The three of them moved over to the oak tree, and stood very
still.  They each observed their surroundings, and checked their guns
taking the safety switch off.  Allen silently pointed for Nick to go
left, Paul go right and he will hang back to cover.  They slowly
separated scanning everything they see and feel.  Nick started at the
edge of the hut.  He held his gun out in front of him, and peeked
around the corner.  He saw a light shining through a small window at
knee level.  He carefully got down on his knees, and crawled towards
the window.  Nick slowly moved his head to the corner, and he saw
Molly and Jamie holding each other in a far corner.  Nick quietly
whispered, 'Molly,' and crawled away heading back to the edge of the
house.  He stood up and walked towards Allen with Paul close behind. 
They walked back to the huge tree where LaCroix waited for them.
        "Lucien, I told you…"  Allen started.
        "I saw Molly and Jamie.  There downstairs in a small room
with a flashlight."  Nick said, "We could use all the help we can
get.  You two team up, and Lucien and I will get the girls.  Get him."
        "We will.  Hug the ladies for us."  Paul said.
        "We will.  Let's go."  Nick said.
        Each team went there separate way.  Nick took Lucien with
him to the window.  They looked all over for a way in.  Nick looked
to LaCroix.
        "LaCroix, use your vision, scan the room."  Nick requested.
        "But…"  LaCroix started.
        "Like I did before, use it for good reasons.  Go on."  Nick
pleaded quietly, "For Jamie and Molly."
        LaCroix slowly closed his eyes, and he quickly opened them. 
A fiery red glow emanated, and his fangs exposed shining from the
moonlight.  LaCroix sat in front of the window and scanned the entire
room.  Outside of Jamie and Molly; no one else.
        "No one."  LaCroix snarled slightly.
        "Good.  Open the window, but quietly."  Nick said.
        LaCroix grabbed hold of each side and with his vampire
strength, pulled the window out, and tossed it aside.  LaCroix slid
through the window, and helped Nick in safely.  LaCroix closed his
eyes to place his demon side asleep.  They turned to face the ladies.
Molly and Jamie gasped crying seeing them again.  Jamie ran to
LaCroix's loving arms, and Nick walked over kneeling down by Molly's
side.  Nick placed the safety switch on, and placed the gun into his
pocket.  He gently touched Molly's cheek, and she jumped slightly. 
Molly looked up shaking, and saw Nick's blue eyes.  She whispered his
name, Nick nodded and Molly leaped into his arms crying happily; as
well as Nick.
        "Shh, it's all right.  No noise."  Nick whispered.
        "I love you."  Molly cried.
        Nick laughed slightly, "I love you, too.  But we need to go.
Come on.  Can you walk?"
        "I think so."  Molly said.
        Nick helped her to her feet walking towards LaCroix and
Jamie, "You ready?"
        "Going somewhere."  Adam said holding a gun in one hand, and
a remote in the other.
        Nick glanced at LaCroix to take Molly.  Nick slowly turned
around to face him, but standing in front of the ladies.
        "Adam," Nick said.
        "You know, you and your vampy father have been a pain in my
ass long enough."  Adam said.
        "My what?  Whatever.  You took Molly and then Jamie.  You
killed two innocent people plus you hurt Carla.  You're going down." 
Nick told him.
        Adam laughing sarcastically, "Laura rejected me and so did
Carla.  Jamie saw my face.  No, I don't think so.  Where is Carla?"
        "Gone."  Nick answered.
        Nick placed his hand into pocket realizing he felt his gun. 
He slowly removed the safety switch and aimed it at Adam through his
pocket.  
        "Gone.  I wanted her."  Adam said shaking the gun, then
displayed the remote, "See this."
        "Yeah," Nick replied.
        "Look to your right, a nice neat bomb.  We're going for a
ride unless I see her."  Adam insisted.
        "Just relax.  I can call her for you.  Okay."  Nick suggested.
        "Fine, but hurry.  Finger is getting itchy."  Adam said.
        Nick slowly removed his cell phone, and secretly dialed
Allen's phone.
        "Straton," Allen said softly.
        "Carla, its Nick.  Adam's here and he's dying to see you." 
Nick told him.
        Allen whispered, "Shit.  Keep him talking, we're almost
there."
        "Thanks, Carla, hold on.  Adam, she said she's on her way. 
Just calm down, and defuse that thing."  Nick requested.
        "I don't think so."  Adam said.
        "Bombs scare her.  If she sees that, she won't come in. 
That won't turn her on."  Nick suggested.
        Adam hesitated sweating all over, "Fine,"
        "Good," Nick said.  "Mind if I see my wife."
        "No, but no slight moves."  Adam implied.
        Nick held up his hand walking towards Molly glancing at
LaCroix, "Just listen for Allen to knock."
        Nick turned to LaCroix, "Nicholas,"
        "Shh.  Look for my move, and duck.  Molly, you all right?" 
Nick inquired.
        "Yes, you're here."  Molly whispered.
        Nick held Molly close to his side kissing her soft cheek. 
Suddenly, a knock echoed from the door, and Nick glared at LaCroix. 
Nick lifted the phone to his ear.
        "Carla, is that you?"  Nick asked.
        Straton whispered, "You ready?"
        "Yeah, okay."  Nick answered, "She said she's ready."
        Nick hung up his phone placing it into his pocket, and
placed a tighter grip onto his gun.  Adam watched Nick as he walked
side ways towards the door.  He slowly placed his hand on the
doorknob, and turned it.  The door flung open, and there stood Allen
and Paul with their guns aimed directly at his forehead.  Adam
finally reached his boiling point.  He turned screaming, 'no,' at
Nick.  He aimed his gun, and Nick fell to his right knee pulling out
his gun, and fired.  Allen and Paul moved aside, out of the line of
fire also fired their guns.  LaCroix quickly flew Jamie and Molly out
of the way.
        Suddenly, the gun fire ceased, and Adam was lying on the
floor in a pool of blood.  Allen and Paul entered the room with six
officers, and George with his crew.  Nick pointed out the bomb to
George and they went to work.  Allen and Paul joined Nick then the
others.
        "You guys, okay?"  Allen asked.
        LaCroix exhaled, "We're fine."
        "Nick," Molly yelled.
        "I'm here."  Nick answered winded.
        Molly ran to Nick's arms hiding her eyes from the scene. 
Nick and LaCroix escorted the ladies out of the hut and outside for
some fresh air.  Allen and Paul followed close behind.  They walked
towards the tree where Paul saw Carla waiting.  She saw Paul, and ran
into his arms.
        "Okay people.  Time to go home and to your neutral corners. 
Kathy's waiting.  Get wild."  Allen politely ordered.
        "I'm for that."  Nick said, "Follow me."
        "Lead on."  LaCroix said.
        Nick held Molly leading the way towards the car, and they
climbed in.  Molly snuggled very close to Nick as he started the
engine, and drove away.  LaCroix and Jamie snuggled in the back seat.
Nick spotted the loft and drove into the parking garage.  He turned
the engine off, and they climbed out.  Nick pushed the button, the
doors slid open and they rode upward to the loft.  The doors opened
into the living room, and they saw Scott standing by the couch. 
Scott walked up to them kissing the ladies cheeks and shaking hands
with Nick and LaCroix.
        "Welcome home.  Everything is clean and restocked.  I will
handle the club.  I'm glad you and Molly are safe and home. 
Goodnight."  Scott said.
        "Thank you, Scott."  LaCroix replied.
        Nick and Molly strolled by with LaCroix and Jamie behind and
Scott quietly flew away to the Raven.  LaCroix and Jamie entered
their room closing the door, and Nick and Molly entered theirs.  They
held each other very tight kissing passionately.  They took turns
using the bathroom, and Molly started the shower.  She quickly
stripped down and helped Nick do the same.  Molly took a few moments
to glance at Nick's naked body.  They carefully stepped into the
shower, and made love.  Nick leaned over turning the water off, and
they carefully stepped out.  He grabbed a towel and they dried each
other off.  Nick opened the door, and escorted Molly to their bed. 
He walked around pulling the covers down and crawled under them. 
They snuggled into each others arms and just held each other tight.
        "I missed you so much."  Nick said.
        "Same here."  Molly replied lovingly.
        Nick exhaled, "Honey, we haven't talked about the wedding
much.  I would like to make two suggestions."
        "They are?"  Molly inquired.
        "One, a night wedding at the garden with a candle lighting
ceremony."  Nick suggested.
        Molly looked up to his blue eyes, "And two?"
        Nick exhaled, "A double ceremony with Lucien and Jamie."
        "I thought you would never ask.  I love the idea, both of
them.  Perfect."  Molly said smiling.
        "Great."  Nick said, "Now what?"
        Molly slowly stroked his chest downward to his groin and she
felt his hot arousal.  Nick grinned widely sliding down, and rolling
on top of her legs.  Molly wrapped her arms around his chest.  He
slowly moved kissing her passionately until he was deep inside of
her.  Molly moaned with a slight laugh.  She gazed up into his blue
eyes.
        "It's been so long, darling."  Molly whispered.
        Nick slightly moaning, "I know,"
        They slowly moved kissing each other.  Molly suddenly dug
her fingers into Nick's upper back.  Nick felt his essence surging
and pulsating.  Molly whispered, 'please,' and he moved slightly
faster going deeper.  Suddenly his essence exploded inside, and Molly
gasped holding Nick very tight.  Nick's body slightly shook from the
sudden heat he felt from her climax.  Nick exhaled with a moan, and
Molly smiled widely.  Nick rested his head upon Molly's breasts.  He
slowly slid off to the side lying very close to her.
        "I needed that, I missed it so much."  Molly stuttered.
        "Same here," Nick agreed.  "He didn't hurt you, did he?"
        "No, just scared me a lot."  Molly told him.
        Nick exhaled, "Good.  How much time did you take off, and
you need it."
        "I took a week.  I want to save the rest for our honeymoon."
Molly told him.
        Nick smirked, "Oh yeah, I'll take a week off, and we'll
spend the time here planning the wedding also get that mini van."
        Molly smiled widely, "Perfect."
        "Done."  Nick said.
        "What did Dr. Mason say about your physical?"  Molly asked.
        "He agrees with you."  Nick said smiling.
        Molly moaned slightly, "I'm glad.  Now what?"
        "Well, he wants to see you and Jamie.  To make sure you two
are okay."  Nick said.
        "But I'm fine."  Molly replied.
        "For me, please." Nick pleaded.
        Molly hesitated, "All right, what else?"
        "I have to check in with Paul and Allen to close this case,
plan a party for everyone here.  Michael called, finally."  Nick said.
        "Great, where has he and Rose been?"  Molly inquired.
        "They will tell us Saturday night at the party."  Nick
replied.
        Nick sat up straight, "Shower time, and I will cook you a
very warm breakfast."
        "Whoa.  How about a massage?"  Molly suggested.
        Nick smiling widely, "Anytime.  Lead the way M'Lady, but I
need to go first."
        "Hurry."  Molly requested eagerly.
        "Yes ma'am."  Nick saluted jokingly.
        Nick quickly entered the bathroom while Molly pulled the
door closed, and then a flush echoed.  He exited the bathroom, and
Molly took her turn.  When Nick heard the toilet flush, he entered
the bathroom and saw Molly standing there by the shower naked.  Nick
strolled up to her; she reached out and pulled the string on his
lounge pants.  They slowly fell down around his ankles, and he
stepped out kicking them aside.  Molly grinned as Nick did in return,
and she led him into the shower turning the water on.  Nick slid the
door closed, and they made love.
        Jamie slowly woke up, and saw LaCroix sleeping peacefully. 
She lied there gazing upon his face and smiled.  Suddenly, LaCroix
woke up to her staring at him.  LaCroix stretched his body inhaling
then exhaled.  Jamie smiled wider which made him a little nervous.
        "Jamie, what is it?"  LaCroix asked.
        "I missed you so much, and I thought I would never see you
again.  He was…"  Jamie expressed her fear.
        LaCroix reached over embracing her warmly then leaned back,
"Jamie my love, never fear.  I will always be here with you until I
die."
        "I'm so glad.  Same here love."  Jamie replied.
        LaCroix sat up kissing her passionately, and smiled, "Time
to shower and join Nicholas and Molly for breakfast."
        "Let's go, darling."  Jamie said seductively.
        "One thing before we do that we need to discuss."  LaCroix
replied.
        "That is?" Jamie inquired.
        LaCroix inhaled, "Dr. Mason ran that test on my essence,
we'll say.  All of my sexual functions have returned.  Unless we want
to have a child now, we can, but if not, we need to use something to
prevent it."
        "Lucien, that's wonderful.  You must be so happy.  You can
have a child of your own body."  Jamie said.
        "Yes, but what do you want?"  LaCroix questioned.
        "I want children, very much, but right now, I want you to
myself.  Do you mind?"  Jamie said.
        "No, it's a major decision, and we will decide that later. 
Right now shower."  LaCroix replied.
        Molly grabbed the dishes and the hot coffee pot, and brought
them to the table.  Nick had finished cooking a hot breakfast, and
carried it in on two plates.  Nick placed the plates upon the table
sitting down by her side, and they enjoyed a cozy hot meal together. 
LaCroix held Jamie's hand escorting her through the kitchen and
grabbing two mugs on their way.  They sat down next to each other
across from Nick and Molly.  Both men reached into their pockets, and
placed the rings back on their fingers.
        Nick jokingly laughed, "Are you sure still?"
        Molly grabbed his hand placing the ring on, "You're stuck
with me."
        "My pleasure."  Nick said warmly.
        Molly whispered, "Later,"
        Nick cleared his throat, "Lucien and Jamie, we have a
request for you, and we're hoping you will say yes."
        "A request, do go on."  LaCroix suggested.
        "Well, we took a week off to hang here, and plan the
wedding.  Molly and I are planning a night wedding with a candlelight
ceremony, but we want you and Jamie to make it a double wedding." 
Nick requested.
        "Nicholas, a double."  LaCroix said stunned.
        "Yes, you two and us getting married on October 31st, one
big ceremony."  Nick said.
        LaCroix glanced at Jamie, and saw the glow in her eyes, "We
would be honored."
        "Great."  Molly said happily.
        Nick held up his hand, "Separate honeymoon rooms though."
        "Cute, of course.  Where are you planning?"  Jamie asked.
        "Not sure yet," Nick said, "You?"
        "We were thinking Europe."  LaCroix replied.
        Nick smiled, "Wonderful.  Can you take our ladies to Dr.
Mason; I need to tie up the case before I can take time off?"
        "Jamie can, I need to check the club, and I need you to pick
something up for me at the store."  LaCroix said.
        Nick puzzled, "What's that?"
        LaCroix standing up kissing Jamie's soft cheek, "Take me to
the club, and we will discuss it."
        "All right, bye love, I'll be home soon."  Nick replied
kissing Molly's moist lips.
        "Lucien," Jamie uttered.
        "Later, darling, it's a good thing."  LaCroix said.
        The ladies went about their business while Nick and LaCroix
exited the loft.  They rode down in the elevator out to Nick's car. 
Nick left LaCroix behind walking towards his car climbing in.  He
started the engine backing up to the elevator, and popped the switch
to the trunk.  LaCroix quickly climbed in, and Nick drove to the
Raven's rear entrance.  Nick turned the engine off climbing out, and
opened the door to the club.  He reached over unlocking the trunk,
and LaCroix climbed out running into the club.  Nick closed the
trunk, and followed LaCroix inside to the bar.
        "Okay, what's the big secret?"  Nick asked.
        LaCroix shyly cleared his throat, "I'm very new at this as
you were once.  Paul taught you to use them, and I need you to do the
same for me."
        "What?"  Nick asked confused.
        "Nicholas, I need you to purchase a box of…"  LaCroix replied.
        Nick grinning, "Just say it, we're family."
        LaCroix glared at him, "A box of condoms."
        "Feel better?"  Nick said laughing.
        "No, will you?"  LaCroix inquired.
        Nick snickered, "Of course, no problem.  What did Jamie say?"
        "I told her, and we're not ready yet where this is new to
us.  But we will discuss it further later."  LaCroix said.
        "Good boy.  I will pick them up; I need more anyway, and
leave them on your bed.  I'll see you later, be good."  Nick replied
warmly.
        "Thank you."  LaCroix said.
        Nick embraced his father and quickly left the club through
the back door, and climbed into the car.  He started the engine
backing out of the alleyway, and quickly drove to the station.  He
drove along the curb out front, and parked.  He turned the engine off
climbing out, and ran up the stairs inside to his desk where Allen
and Paul were waiting.  Nick suddenly felt uneasy and very nervous by
the looks he received approaching them.  Nick stood by Paul's side.
        "What's wrong?"  Nick asked.
        Paul smiled, "Caught up yet?"
        "Are you?"  Nick inquired.
        "Enough children.  Let's finalize this, and its party time
at Nick's tonight."  Allen said.
        Nick smiled, "And a week off at home, with Molly and plan
the big day."
        "Cool."  Paul said.
        "Oh, Michael finally called; he and Rose will be there
tonight with a big surprise."  Nick told them.
        "Great."  Paul said.
        Allen picked up a file looking towards Nick, "Okay, and
business time.  How did you and Lucien get in?"
        Nick cleared his throat, "Lucien pulled the window out.  The
wood around the frame was all rotted so it was easy to pull it out. 
He climbed in then I did.  We comforted the girls, and Adam came into
view."
        "All right.  George defused the bomb, it was a real one. 
What made him turn it off?"  Allen questioned.
        "I told him Carla was in the hut, and I knew he didn't want
to hurt her.  When you knocked, he thought it was Carla."  Nick
explained.
        "Good move."  Paul said.
        "I fired three in him, Paul got two, but you Nick, got all
six in him."  Allen replied.
        "Am I in trouble?"  Nick inquired.
        "No way."  Allen answered quickly, "That was it."
        "Yeah, we left with the girls, met up with Carla and we all
went home."  Nick said.
        "Great job musketeers sign here and we can party." Allen
requested.
        Nick pulled out his pen signing the file, and rubbed his
face of stress, "There you go."
        "Great.  You're place, eight o'clock."  Allen inquired.
        "Yeah," Nick replied.  "I'll see you guys later.  I need to
make a stop or two on the way." 
        They shook hands grinning that the nightmare was over, and
now time to relax and celebrate.  Nick strolled out of the building
walking down the stairs, and over to his car.  He climbed in, and
started the engine.  He carefully pulled away driving to the store
near the loft.  Nick quickly parked out front turning the engine off,
and climbed out.  He strolled into the drug store, purchased two
boxes of condoms, a box of chocolates, and quickly paid leaving the
store.  He ran into the liquor store grabbing a bottle of Carpi wine,
a bouquet of flowers, and paid then left.  Nick climbed into the
caddy, and started the engine.  He drove a short distance to the
loft, and parked next to the elevator.  He grabbed his things
climbing out, and rode the elevator upward to the loft.
        Nick quietly entered into the living room saw Molly resting
on the couch under a blanket.  He placed his things into the chair,
and sat down on the coffee table.  He gazed upon her peaceful face,
and lightly stroked her cheek.  Molly jumped slightly then saw Nick,
and embraced him tight.  Nick held her until she stopped shaking.
        "You okay?"  Nick inquired.
        Molly inhaled then exhaled, "I will be."
        "I'm right here, and he's dead."  Nick said.
        "I know.  I'll be all right.  What's that?"  Molly asked.
        Nick reached over picking them up one by one, "Well, let's
see.  Flowers and candy for you.  One box of condoms for us, and one
for Lucien and Jamie."
        "Great.  We'll test them out later.  Let's get ready for
them.  Everyone else is coming later."  Molly replied.
        "Eight o'clock," Nick answered, "Let's get moving."
        Molly took the flowers and candy into the kitchen to put the
flowers into a vase of water, and prepare a fresh pot of coffee. 
Nick strolled upstairs down to LaCroix's room, and opened the door. 
He removed a box of condoms from the bag, and tossed the bagged box
onto the bed.  He then strolled into his room over to his nightstand
pulling the draw out, and placed his inside then closed it.  Nick
walked around the bed into the bathroom standing in front of the
toilet, and unzipped his fly.  A few moments, a flush, and washed his
hands.  He stripped down to his underwear and socks, and exited the
bathroom walking over to his dresser.  He opened the drawers removing
a pair of lounge pants and a white t-shirt.  He quickly got dressed
walking into the hallway down the stairs and joined Molly in the
kitchen.  He wrapped his arms completely around her waist kissing the
back of her neck, and she jumped slightly from his touch.  Molly
turned to face him noticing the lounge pants.
        "Not fair," Molly uttered.
        Nick slightly confused, "What's not fair?"
        "Those," Molly said.
        "Sorry," Nick said.  "Saves time for later."
        Molly hesitated, "Agreed."
        Nick kissed her passionately, "Uh-oh,"
        "Sorry, later."  Molly said giggling.
        Nick placed his hand over his heart, "Cruelty,"
        "My poor baby."  Molly said.
        Suddenly, a knock echoed from the door, LaCroix and Jamie
entered the loft seeing them in the kitchen.  Nick gave Molly a quick
kiss walking over to greet Jamie kissing her cheek, and embraced his
father.  They sat down on the couch, and Molly walked in joining Nick
by sitting on his lap; feeling a slight arousal.
        "Hello, Molly, feeling better?"  LaCroix asked.
        "Much.  Jamie?"  Molly inquired.
        Jamie smiled, "Great.  Here."
        "Thank you."  Molly said standing up holding a bottle of wine.
        Molly strolled into the kitchen grabbing four wine glasses,
and returned to Nick's side.  Molly passed out the glasses while Nick
poured the wine.  He placed the bottle down by his foot taking a
glass from Molly, and they made a silent toast to each other sipping
their wine.
        "Now, Nicholas, what's this game, 'Truth or Dare?'"  LaCroix
asked.
        "Well, let's start it and learn as you go along.  Lucien,
truth or dare?"  Nick asked.
        LaCroix paused, "Truth,"
        Nick laughed, "All right, I will ask you something and you
must tell the truth."
        "All right," LaCroix replied hesitating.
        Nick thought for a few, "Okay, where was the oddest place
you and Jamie made love?"
        LaCroix blushed slightly, "All right, on one of the new
round tables in the club."
        "Whoa," Nick said stunned.
        "Oh, yeah," LaCroix replied grinning.
        "You're turn."  Nick said.
        LaCroix exhaled, "Nicholas, what new thing have you done
within these last two weeks?"
        Nick cleared his throat, "I urinated on a tree at the
mountains."
        "What?"  Jamie said shocked.
        "We went for a walk in the woods for about two or three
hours, and had a picnic lunch.  I needed to go, badly, so Molly
suggested that I aim at a tree."  Nick explained.
        "Then what?"  Jamie inquired.
        Molly grinned, "Made love under the blanket."
        "You didn't?"  LaCroix asked laughing.
        "Molly," Nick said.
        Molly laughed, "We did, and it was a lot of fun."
        "So there."  Nick replied.
        "Nicholas, I'm stunned."  LaCroix said.
        "Why?"  Nick asked.
        Before LaCroix could answer him, a knock came from the door,
and all of their friends entered the loft carrying food, drinks and
balloons.  They stood up off the couch and greeted everyone.  Nick
grabbed hold of Michael, and whistled for silence.  Everyone stood in
silence staring at Nick holding Michael by his upper arm.
        "Friends, and family, these two have been missing for about
two or more weeks.  We were playing a game called, 'truth or dare.' 
My turn, Michael said truth."  Nick replied.
        "I did," Michael said.
        "Yes, so Michael, where in the hell were you two?"  Nick
asked.
        Michael paused, "Rose,"
        "We got married."  Rose announced.
        "What?"  Nick said shocked, "and you didn't tell or call us,"
        "Sorry, it was one of those, 'spare of the moment' things." 
Michael said.
        "Well, the fun party is now a wedding party."  Nick said.
        "Let's eat."  Allen yelled leading everyone to the kitchen
table except for LaCroix.
        Nick grabbed his arm holding him back to have a quiet
conversation.
        "LaCroix, why were you stunned by the sex in the woods?" 
Nick inquired.
        "Oh that," LaCroix chuckled slightly, "In all the time we
have been together, you were, as they say, 'the squarest type ever,'
hearing about the tree, the woods, her desk, and the caddy.  It
wasn't the old Nicholas.  The new one is more open, adventurous, and
more fun."
        "And?" Nick queried.
        "Although I have always loved and admired the old one, but I
must say, the new one, I love and admire more.  Teach me as the time
goes by."  LaCroix said.
        "Let me see, 'the evil one,' is drinking cow's blood,
coffee, fully sexual, condoms, etc.," Nick replied.
        "And?" LaCroix queried.
        "Welcome home friend and father.  Let's celebrate all the
warm gifts we have received and about to receive in October.  Come
on."  Nick suggested.
        Nick and LaCroix joined their friends and loved ones for a
celebration of a wedding, LaCroix's gifts and Nick's.  They ate and
drank, and shared many stories and created new memories for a life of
friendship and love, above all, Faith.