©2004 Hush-a-bye 
            By: Cheryl Pillsbury









        It was early winter, the air cold and crisp, the ground had
a thin layer of white snow, and the wind blew with a slight chill. 
The golden sun slowly sat into the horizon while the moonlight shined
clear across the city; like a crystal ball.
        Along the east side of the city, up in Nick's loft, Nick and
Molly slowly rose from a deep sleep; regenerating from a traumatic
time in their past.  Nick slowly rolled over to see Molly smiling in
her sleep; from a dream.  He lay there, and glanced upon her glowing
face.  He gently leaned over, lightly touched her ruby lips with his
finger.  She slightly shook her head, and woke to his boyish grin. 
Nick tilted his head, and passionately kissed her.  Molly ran one
hand through his golden hair, the other, slowly ran down his back
then gave him a squeeze upon his butt.
        Nick moved slightly from her touch, "Thank you for breakfast."
        Molly seductively licked her lips, tasting Nick's kiss,
"You're welcome."
        Nick warmly moved her hair away from her eyes; he gently
stroked her upper arm then her soft breast, "What's for desert?"
        Her nipples became raised and with a slight moan, "All of
you, and more." Molly replied.
        Nick slowly lowered his hand downward, under the blanket. 
He stroked her thigh, he felt her, she was warm, "Whoa, my pleasure."
        Nick slowly loosened his pajama string on his pants, and
caressed her warm body.  He rolled in between her.  She wrapped her
legs around him; they kissed with every stroke Nick made.  Molly
moaned slightly, with each deep breath; as he held her tighter with
each kiss.  The heat of their affection, and bodies; intensified. 
The more motion he created; Molly moaned and breathed heavier.  Nick
felt his body pulsating with each stroke.  Molly slowly stroked his
back with her fingers; with each passionate kiss.
        Suddenly, Nick let out a slight groan; he felt the heat
which caused him to hesitate.  Molly held him tight, dug her
fingertips into his upper back.  The climax was overwhelming; they
exhaled, and held on for the ride.  Nick sniffed slightly, and Molly
stroked the back of his head.  He leaned up to gaze upon Molly.
        "What's wrong?" Molly asked winded.
        Nick grinned, licked his dry lip, "Nothing, just that I love
you so much."
        Molly laughed lightly, "Oh honey, I---too---love you very
much.  It was wonderful."
        They slowly held and loved each other as they relaxed after
a very intense love-making experience.
        However, in the other bedroom, Jamie laid in bed, gazing up
at the ceiling.  She looked over, and saw LaCroix sound asleep.  He
had red tinted sweat seeping from his forehead.  Jamie quickly rose
from the bed, ran to the fridge, and opened the door.  She returned
to the bed, sat along the side, and gently shook LaCroix.  LaCroix
struggled to rise; but couldn't.  Jamie placed the bottle on the
floor, jumped from the bed, and ran to Nick's door.  Jamie banged on
the door, with great fear, and Nick pulled the door open.  Nick saw
the fear; she grabbed him by his forearm, and pulled him into
LaCroix's side.
        Nick stood, hesitated, sat down by his side, and picked up
the bottle.  He carefully slapped LaCroix upon his cheek; to arouse
him.  Nick carefully moved his bottom lip down, slowly poured a
little blood into his mouth.  LaCroix jerked slightly, took the blood
in, and sat up on his elbows.  Nick placed the bottle to his lips and
tilted it.  LaCroix drank and absorbed the essence of the blood.  He
placed his own hand upon the bottle, as well as Nick's fingers, and
finished the bottle.  Jamie ran into the bathroom, grabbed a towel,
and sat down by LaCroix; on the bed, and handed Nick the towel.  Nick
gently patted the sweat from LaCroix's forehead; LaCroix took the
towel, and wiped his mouth.  Jamie lovingly placed her hands upon his
shoulders; to comfort him.  But mostly; herself.
        LaCroix slowly opened his eyes, and saw Nick sitting at his
side, but felt Jamie's warm touch.  He looked around; to secure his
nerves.  LaCroix placed the towel into his lap, and cleared his
throat.  He leaned towards Jamie, kissed her soft, but wet cheek then
looked to Nick.
        "You okay?" Nick asked with great concern.
        LaCroix let out a sigh of relief, "Yes, thank you."
        "What happened?" LaCroix inquired.
        Nick grinned with ease, knowing LaCroix felt better.  He
crinkled his eyebrow slightly, "Apparently, you didn't feed enough,
and you were slipping."
        LaCroix turned, and sat along the edge of the bed, "Did this
happen to you?"
        "Yes and quite often." Nick answered.
        LaCroix carefully stretched his back, rolled his head
around, "It's horrible."
        Nick snickered slightly, "Part of the process."
        "Great." LaCroix said, with slight anger, "We need to
discuss this."
        LaCroix looked then glared into Nick's face, "Relax first,
then we will." Nick said, with a warm slap to LaCroix's thigh.
        Molly quietly stepped in the doorway; arms wrapped around,
and gazed into the room.  She cleared her throat, "Nick, is
everything okay?" she asked, in slight fear.
        Nick glanced over; saw Molly nervously standing there, with
fear-filled eyes.  He stood, walked over, and gently rubbed her arms.
Nick turned slightly to see LaCroix, who gave Nick a slight wave of
the hand, letting him know he could; that he was fine now.  Nick
grinned, placed his hands upon her shoulders, and escorted her back
to their bedroom.  Nick closed the door behind them.  He showed her
to the bed, and they sat down.  Nick gently stroked her cheek, to
reassure her; he's fine.  Molly warmly placed a hand upon his thigh.
        "What happened?" Molly asked quietly. 
        Nick hesitated, "Allergy reaction.  He's fine."
        Molly sighed in relief, "Oh good; how about you?"
        He slowly looked up into Molly's soft brown eyes, smiled,
"Calming down."
        Nick raised his hand to her soft cheek, "Where was I?"
        Molly saw the slight twinkle in his eyes, she smiled in
return, and "We were heading for the shower."
        Nick seductively extended his hand, with a devilish grin,
"Lead on."
        Molly slowly stood, and turned.  Molly took him by the hand,
he stood, and she walked him into the bathroom.  Molly slid the
shower door, set the water, and faced Nick.  She reached over, placed
her fingers upon his pajama string, and pulled it.  Molly loosened
them, and they slowly fell to the floor.  She slipped out of her
nightgown, and led him into the shower.  Nick closed the door; he
stepped very close to Molly, and wrapped his arms around her waist. 
She placed hers up and around his neck.  Nick lowered his hands
downward, and slightly lifted her upward.  Molly gently wrapped her
legs around his waist, kissed each other affectionately.  He
penetrated her and they began to move together, making love in the
shower.
        LaCroix turned to face Jamie; she crawled across the bed,
and embraced him warmly.  Jamie took the bottle from his side, and
placed it on the floor; by the nightstand.  
        "Thank you." LaCroix said.
        Jamie sat very close, laid her leg across his lap, LaCroix
slowly massaged her calf, "I love you so much."
        LaCroix lightly touched her soft cheek with his other hand,
"As do I."
        Jamie slowly stroked his chest, "How do you feel?"
        "Getting better," LaCroix uttered softly.
        Jamie, practically sitting on his lap, asked shakily, "Do
you need more?"
        LaCroix placed his hands upon her lower back, and pulled her
closer, "All I need---or want---is you."
        Jamie warmly kissed him and stroked his back with her
fingertips.  LaCroix slowly became aroused, and Jamie felt his heat
touching her, "Same here shower time."
        "Splendid, lead on," LaCroix agreed.
        Jamie carefully climbed off his lap, and stood directly in
front of him.  She extended her hands; palms up, and grinned warmly. 
LaCroix stood, placed his hands into hers, and they strolled into the
bathroom.  LaCroix closed the door, stood on the rug, and Jamie slid
the door open.  Jamie turned the water on, set it slightly hot, and
turned to LaCroix; saw his smile with sparkling blue eyes.  Jamie
grinned, pulled the string on his pants, and they slid down to the
floor.  Jamie lightly licked her lips and looked heatedly at him.  
        LaCroix blushed shyly, looked down, and saw his arousal,
"You enjoy doing that."
        Jamie laughed slightly, "Oh yeah."
        LaCroix cleared his throat, "And, do you like what you see?"
        Jamie stepped closer, gave his chest a slight stroke then
felt him on her thighs; very warm.   He jumped a little, from the
touch, "Definitely; very satisfying."
        LaCroix took her by the waist, stepped closer to her, and
she felt him in between her thighs, "I see."
        "Yes, I do." Jamie said, in a slight stutter, "Come on."  
        "Lead on." LaCroix willingly said to her.
        Jamie led LaCroix into the shower, Jamie slid the door shut,
and he stood very close to her.  LaCroix could feel her heart
beating, her body getting hotter, and he felt fully aroused.  The
scent of her arousal made him warm.  Jamie placed her arms around his
neck.  LaCroix lifted her upward, and stepped closer.  As he
penetrated her warm body, she jerked slightly by his motion.  They
kissed, and made love in the hot shower.
        Nick and Molly had made there way downstairs, sitting on the
couch, and enjoying a hot cup of coffee.  They snuggled in each
others arms, and savored the moment.  Nick reached up, and behind his
head, picked up the remote, and turned the news on.  They placed
their mugs upon the table. 
         Molly warmly stroked Nick's thigh, "Feeling better?"
        "Oh yeah," Molly answered. "Will Lucien be all right?"
        Nick gave Molly a slight squeeze upon her shoulder, "Yes,
he's fine." he said, "What's your agenda today?"
        Molly moved slightly to face his blue eyes, "Work, and more
work.  I have some paintings coming in from Russia."
        Nick blinked his eyes in amazement, "Whoa.  At this moment,
I'll be at the station."
        Nick slightly moved and sat on the edge of the couch, "All
right.  I've got to go, lunch later?"
        Molly shyly lowered her head, "Maybe." she said, "Desert?"
        Nick slightly laughed, "Again?"
        Molly slid up close to his side, grinned, "Always room for
more."
        "True.  I'll try." Nick said, as he stood up.
        Molly followed closely behind, "Great, thanks.  Love you."
        Nick leaned over, gave her a slight squeeze upon her lower
back, "Love you, too."
        Molly slowly left Nick behind, and he took the mugs into the
kitchen, and turned the pot off.
        Nick was about to leave when he saw LaCroix and Jamie
walking down the stairs.  Jamie reached up, kissed his ruby lips, and
lightly slapped his ass.  LaCroix jumped slightly, laughed, and Jamie
left the loft; giggling.  Nick strolled over to the chair, leaned his
backside on it, with his arms folded, and displayed a huge devilish
grin for LaCroix.
        LaCroix took notice in Nick's pose, he walked over with his
hands in his pockets, grinned, "What's so amusing?"
        "How was the shower?" Nick asked, slightly laughing.
        LaCroix tried to compose himself, "Stimulating."
        Nick stood erect, "I'll bet."
        LaCroix stroked his lower lip, "And yours?"
        Nick blushed, wide grin, "Nice."
        LaCroix snickered quietly, "Indeed."
        Nick slowly walked around the chair, and carefully sat down
upon the couch.  LaCroix strolled to the chair, sat down, and gently
crossed his legs.  He felt the seriousness in the air.  
        LaCroix folded his hands into his lap, "Okay, about last
night." he started, "I forgot to feed before rest."
        Nick leaned towards LaCroix; to speak quietly, "Unusual for
you; something wrong?"
        LaCroix slid back into the chair, sighed, "Not sure.  Do you
remember that beam of light?"
        Nick hesitated, thought back, "Joining Day."
        "Yes." LaCroix answered.
        "Yes, what about it?" Nick asked to help understand.
        LaCroix looked to Nick's eyes, and then away, and again,
"Did you---see---anything?"
         Nick, shocked by his thought, leaned upon his thighs,
folded his hands, "Like what?"
        LaCroix slowly stood, walked away from the chair, and stood
by the table with his hands in his pockets.  He became hesitant, "Not
sure.  It disturbs my senses.  Almost like spirits around me."
        Nick felt his confusion, stood to face him directly, "Good
ones, I hope."
        "Yes.  Do you remember yours?"
        "Most of it," Nick whispered.
        Nick felt something from his words, a small pain.  LaCroix
moved slightly to face Nick, "Nicholas, I'm not sure if this is right
time, but I kept Natalie's books at the Raven." he expressed with
great caution.  Nick's nerves became numb, his eyes tear-filled,
"Natalie."
        "I have her journals, of what you two experienced with your
journey.  I thought they may help us." LaCroix suggested.
        Nick became very quiet, withdrawn, "Later, I'm not ready."
        LaCroix saw his pain; his sadness, "I understand.  I too---
miss her---deeply."
        "Yes." Nick whispered.
        As LaCroix approached Nick; to comfort him, the front door
slid open, and Paul came strutting in.  He saw them standing very
close to each other; felt he intruded upon a personal conversation. 
        Paul cautiously strolled up to Nick, stood by his side, and
grinned slightly, "What's wrong?"
        Nick stared at LaCroix for a brief moment then looked to
Paul's face, "Hello.  How are you?"
        Paul sensed a private talk, "Fine, good.  Glad that you two
are back.  How was the time off?"
        Nick quietly cleared his throat, "Relaxing."
        Paul glanced over into LaCroix's direction, "Lucien."
        LaCroix looked upward at him, "Paul."
        "How are you doing?" Paul asked with slight concern.
        "I'm well." LaCroix replied.
        Paul stepped over to his side, slapped his upper arm, "Glad
to hear It." he said, glancing back to Nick, "Where are the girl's?"
        "Working," Nick quickly answered.  
        Paul snapped his fingers in disappointment, "Darn."
        Paul inhaled slightly, he smiled the scent of fresh brewed
coffee, "I need some coffee, be right back."
        Nick patiently waited for Paul to leave, he then turned his
attention to LaCroix, and the subject in hand, "LaCroix, about…"
        LaCroix quickly raised his hand for Nick to hold his words,
"It's all right."  
        Nick stepped closer to him, touching his side, leaned near
his ear, "It's a good question, and we will finish it later.  But
always remember, have faith."
        LaCroix tilted his head, crinkled his brow in slight
confusion, "Faith."
        Nick grinned slightly, "Yes.  With faith, trust, and love;
all things are possible."
        LaCroix warmly placed a hand upon Nick's upper back, "I see.
I'll be at the Raven."  
        Nick gave his nose a little scratch with his hand, "I'll
come by later."
        LaCroix lovingly squeezed his shoulder, "Grand."
        Paul slowly returned and stood by Nick's side, "Take it
easy."  
        Nick returned the warm gesture to LaCroix's upper arm. 
LaCroix grinned, turned, and slowly walked out of the loft.  He rode
down in the elevator and outside.  LaCroix carefully scanned his
surroundings; he gazed upward to the dark sky; filled with stars, and
took to flight.  He flew quickly to the Raven.
        
        Back at the loft, Nick and Paul stood by the chair enjoying
guy talk, when Nick's phone suddenly rang.  They stopped, Nick
received a slight jolt, and he walked over to the table.  Nick picked
up the receiver, cleared his throat, but glanced at Paul; in case.
        "Knight." Nick announced proudly.
        Nick stood in silence, listening to the other person; it was
Captain Reese.  "Hey, Nick, Paul there?"
        Nick waved Paul over, to join in, "Yeah, what's up?"
        Reese sighed angrily, "A real bad one, I'm afraid.  A
newborn baby, the body was discovered in the alley of 36th and 8th."
        Nick swallowed hard; his face became a pale white, "Damn."
        Reese sensed Nick's voice tone had changed; it was lower,
"The lab guy's are there." he informed him, but added, "Is this a
first for you?"
        Nick licked his dry, nervous lips, "A newborn, yes."
        Reese cleared his throat, spoke firmly to Nick, "Let Paul
take charge, he's been there.  Trust me."
        Paul heard the term, 'newborn,' and feared the worst.
        Nick sighed quietly, "All right, we're on our way."
        Nick shockingly hung up the phone, and stared into Paul's
direction.  Fear filled his body, but Paul tapped his arm to draw his
attention.
        Nick painfully looked up into Paul's face, Paul saw his
eyes; a few tears, "Nick."
        "A newborn body was found." Nick stuttered.
        Paul punched his hand with his fist, "Damn,"
        "You're first." Paul inquired.
        Nick slowly rubbed his forearm in fear, "Yeah."
        Paul sensed his uneasiness; saw a slight shiver in his upper
body.  He placed his hand upon Nick's shoulder, and stroked is dry
lips, "Before we leave, hang back, first." he suggested; but
continued," If you throw up, it's normal.  This will be very hard on
us, but mainly for you."
        Nick looked to him, appeared relaxed, "All right."
        Paul still sensed his hesitation, "Stay close, but if you
need to walk, do so."
        Nick expressed a sigh of relief, "I will."
        Paul quickly removed his hand, and clapped them together to
get Nick to focus, "Let's go, I already turned the pot off."
        Nick stepped over to the table, removed his gun from the
drawer, and placed it into his belt; in the back.  They slowly left
the loft, and the door closed automatically behind them.  They rode
down in the elevator, and outside to Nick's car.  Nick unlocked the
doors, they opened the doors; climbed in, and Nick started the
engine.  Nick carefully backed up, and quickly drove to the alley.
        As they approached the alley, they saw the cruiser's with
blue lights flashing, yellow tapes surrounding the area, and the
Forensics team; with Kathy, leading the way.  Nick pulled up along
the curb, turned the engine off, and they climbed out.  Nick locked
the doors, placed his keys into his pant pocket, and met Paul by the
hood of the car.  Paul spotted Kathy at the alley edge way, pointed
her out to Nick, and they walked towards her.  Kathy saw them
approaching, and waited.  They stood along side of her, but Nick
stayed close to Paul with his fear slowly rising.
        Kathy turned slightly to face Paul, but could not help
notice Nick's eyes, "Hey, guys." 
        "What you got so far?" Paul asked softly.
        Kathy swallowed hard, "A dead newborn, in that box; in the
middle of the alley." she informed them, painfully. "Jack's on the
right, and Tony's on the left; checking the buildings."
        Nick nervously licked his lips, "How?" 
        Kathy faced Nick directly, "The newborn is male, about
twenty inches long, maybe eight pounds or so.  The cord is still
attached, and there are two bruises under its chin, that's it.  My
guess, he was strangled."  
        "Any ideas?" Paul inquired more.
        "Not yet." Kathy answered, but saw Nick's face, slightly
pale with dampness upon his forehead.  "First time for you?"
        "Yeah," Nick answered softly.
        Kathy stepped away, reached down into her bag, and pulled
out a white plastic bag.  She turned and handed it to Nick.  He took
it with slight confusion.  "You'll need that, and here are some
gloves."
        Nick held the white bag up, "What's this?"
        Kathy glanced around her, stepped closer to him, "Puke bag,
to be blunt.  Don't worry; Tony did it first."
        "Thanks." Nick whispered.
        Paul reached up, and tugged his sleeve, "Okay partner, take
a deep breathe, and relax." he said to calm him down, "Remember;
leave, and use the bag." 
        Nick gave his body a quick shake, "Let's go."
        Paul cautiously led the way with Nick very close to his
heels.  Paul approached the box first, looked inside, and closed his
eyes in disgust.  He stepped aside to let Nick see; to experience it,
and deal with it quickly.  Nick looked into the box, the horror and
sickness filled his eyes; then his stomach.  Inside the box, he saw a
little white body with blue veins and lips seeping through its skin. 
The cord was wrapped around its neck, and the purple-yellowish
bruises under his chin.  All wrapped up in a pale yellow blanket. 
Nick stood there; frozen.  Paul saw his face, very pale with a tint
of green.  Paul grabbed him by the arm; Nick walked quickly away;
stood by the dumpster, and held his stomach tight.  Paul grabbed his
hand with the bag, and placed it closer to his mouth.  Paul turned
and gave him his back; for privacy.
        Suddenly, Nick felt his stomach turning, out of control
surge, and covered his mouth with the bag.  He vomited into the bag,
gagging in the process.  Paul turned to rub his back, and help him;
for it was Nick's first experience.  Nick moved the bag slightly to
breathe in fresh air.  He wiped his mouth upon his sleeve.  Paul
stood and watched him closely.  
        Nick breathed in deep, and glanced over to Paul, "Feel
better?"  
        Nick licked his dry lips, cleared his throat, "That was
horrible."  
        Paul turned and leaned up against the dumpster with his
back, "Yes, it is."
        Nick coughed, and then spit out a little vomit, "When?"
        Paul handed him a piece of candy from his pocket, cleared
his throat, "Five years ago, Italy." he said briefly, "I was on a
special case, back home, and there was a body in a barrel." he
explained sadly.  They stood in silence staring at the ground.
        Nick kicked a few stones away with his foot, "Damn it." he
whispered.  Paul took a few steps away, turned and faced him, "That's
one word; the other words are really nasty.  How do you feel?  Think
you're done?"
        Nick gave his stomach a little rub, fixed his clothes, "I'm
okay."
        Paul hesitated a moment then tapped Nick's arm, "Beer later."
        Nick looked into Paul's eyes, smiled, "I'll need one."
        Paul leaned over, hugged him slightly upon his upper back,
"Same here.  Let's do our jab, and fry this bastard's ass."
        Nick surprised by his wording, "Done."
        "Give the bag to Kathy, and join me at the box." Paul replied.
        Paul strolled away as Nick walked up to Kathy.  He carefully
handed her the bag, she wrote his name on it; sealed it, and placed
it with Tony's.  Kathy gave him a quick exam, and he slowly walked
back to Paul; at the box.  They slowly knelt down, Paul gave him one
of his gloves, and they gently examined the box then the surrounding
area.  They found nothing; so far, but suddenly, Jack's voice echoed
from the right.  Kathy heard it as well, with Nick and Paul, they ran
into the building and found him; in shock, in a small room at the far
end.  When they witnessed the same view, they too, stood in shock and
horror.
        A young girl lying on a bed; bottomless, blood everywhere,
with a pair of scissors by her left leg.  Kathy scanned the scene,
slowly approached with her camera, and stood at the foot of the bed. 
She slowly began taking pictures of the scene.  In between the girl's
legs, the placenta and a partial piece of the cord rested on the
sheet.  The scissors, slightly opened; but bloody, by her left leg. 
Kathy finished photographing the scene, and returned to Nick's side. 
Kathy handed the camera to Jack; to hold.
        Kathy slightly sighed, "It looks like the mother.  Jack
called for the guys to come in for her."
        "Yes ma'am." Jack said, leaving the room; for the moment
then returned.
        Nick exhaled angrily, "Man, this guy is going to fry."
        "Diddo," Paul agreed with him.
        Nick quickly pointed with his right hand, "You go there, and
I'll look here."
        They cautiously strolled to there sides, scanned the area,
and examined everything in view.  Nick, nerves still numb, approached
the side of the bed, and examined the young girl, her pose, and how
she was left.  She was lying on the bed with pillows surrounding her.
One behind her head and one under each leg.  She wore a powder-blue
shirt with a denim blue-jean jacket, and had white socks on; blood
soaked.  Her shirt tucked under her breasts, long brown hair pulled
back into a pony-tail; looking very innocent.  Nick sadly looked away
with a single tear rolling down his cheek; he saw a pair of latex
gloves lying on the floor; by the bedpost.  He carefully waved Jack
and Kathy over, and pointed downward to what he had found.  Jack took
a picture, stepped away, and Kathy approached him carrying a plastic
bag.  Nick bent down, gently picked the gloves up, and placed them
into the bag.  Kathy sealed the bag, held it up for Paul to see, and
strolled away.  Nick continued to look around; Paul walked over to
Nick's side, and joined him in his search.
        Nick noticed Paul's shadow, "Find anything?"
        Paul, frustrated, placed his hands upon his hips, "No."
        Nick looked around, waved Jack over to his direction, "Jack,
seal this building off."
        "Okay." Jack answered with a slight salute.
        Kathy noticed they were done poking; she turned towards the
doorway and asked Ryan and the others to remove the body, "Okay,
guys, and take her to the lab.  Ryan, bag the sheets for testing."
        "Yes ma'am." Ryan replied.
        Kathy moved to his left side, and tapped his forearm,
"Kathy, and thanks."  
        Ryan grinned, "Cool.  Let's go guys."
        Nick gave Paul a little punch in his side, "Let's go."  
        Kathy happened to catch Nick's exiting words.  She
approached them and held out a plastic bag in front of them, "Gloves
guys, in the bag."
        As they were about to remove their gloves, Paul noticed a
few drops of blood about six inches from Nick's shoes.  Paul grabbed
Nick's hand, and pointed downward.  He showed Nick the trail of blood
drops, "Nick, look,"
        "Blood trail.  Jack, bring the camera, and follow us out. 
Take picture's of the trail."
        Jack strolled up and stood by Paul, "Lead on."
        Nick and Paul carefully led the way with Jack between them. 
They closely scanned the floor; for blood, and Jack took pictures
each time.  They walked slowly for about thirty minutes; or more. 
They finally made it outside, and over to where the baby was
discovered.  They hesitated, and observed their surroundings, "Okay,
make a line; Jack in the middle, and let's walk it out to the street."
        Paul let out a slight sigh, "Let's do it."
        They extended the line, and combed the alley.  They scanned
every stone, box, and trash.  They watched the blood trail, and Jack
took a picture each time.  Kathy followed behind, but stayed away; to
let them work.  They were approximately two to three feet from the
box, when Jack yelled for them to come into his location.  They moved
into his direction, and Jack pointed to what he found.  He quickly
took a picture, and Paul bent down, and picked up a cufflink; covered
in blood.  Nick stepped over to take a closer look as Paul rolled it
around in the palm of his hand.
        "What do you think?" Paul questioned.
        Nick gently touched it with his fingers, "Maybe DV."
        "Yeah," Paul said, but continued, "My guess, father not
pleased, and killed them both."
        Nick hesitated then reflected back to the young girl, "She's
what; sixteen; seventeen, and he must be older."
        Paul's eyes widened in shock, "Or worse,"
        Nick displayed confusion by his thought, "Worse."
        "Married," Paul replied.
        Nick slowly shook his head, "Agree." he mumbled, "Let's take
that to Kathy, check in.  Jack, develop the pictures fast; my desk."
        "No problem." Jack answered.  
        Paul heard the tension in Nick's voice, "Let's go.  Check
in, then the Raven for food."
        Nick lifted his head, looked into Paul's eyes; lost and
confused, "I need to see LaCroix."
        Paul laughed slightly, slap to his back, "I thought so."
        "What?" Nick asked quietly.
        Paul tugged him at his sleeve, "Come on, in the car."
        Nick willingly followed Paul out of the alley, and to the
caddy.   Nick stood along the driver's side, unlocked the doors, they
opened, and climbed into the car.  They closed the doors, sat kitty-
corner; to face each other. 
        Nick stared into Paul's eyes to carefully listen to his
words, "All right, why?"
        Paul grinned, cleared his throat slightly, "It's so nice to
see a family, as close as, you and Lucien are."
        Nick shyly turned away, "I see."
        Paul gazed out the windshield, sighed, "I wish all families
were like yours."
        Nick slightly tapped his thigh, turned to face the wheel,
"Thanks.  LaCroix---is very---unique."
        Paul turned to face his window, looking down to the floor,
"So are you."
        Nick gave him a quick glance of surprise, snickered a
little, "You, too." he replied, "Let's roll,"
        Paul cleared his throat loudly, "Enough.  I'm not kissing
you."
        "Good.  That's Molly's job." Nick agreed.
        Paul pulled away towards his window; for safety, "And
Lucien's?"
        Nick fished for his keys, "I guess."
        They put their seat belts on, and sat comfortably.  Nick
started the engine, backed up slowly, and drove to the police
station; to check in.
        Nick saw the station off to his left side; he carefully
pulled up along the curbside, and parked the car.  He turned the
engine off, opened the doors, and climbed out.  They closed them,
Nick locked the doors, and they walked up the stairs; inside the
station.  They slowly strolled in, down to Nick's desk; Paul pulled
up a chair, and sat down.  Nick switched the computer on, and waited.
Paul pulled out his notebook, and helped Nick fill the file with what
they had so far.
        Reese saw them through his office window.  He noticed how
tense they were, walked out of his office, and strolled over to
Nick's desk; stood along Paul's side.
        "Nick." he said to draw his attention.
        "Yeah." Nick answered quietly. 
        Reese let out a slight sigh, "This was your first, wasn't
it." 
        Nick tilted sideways, more towards the computer, "Yeah, it
was."
        Reese nervously rubbed his face, "Do you want off this case?"
        Nick jerked his head towards Reese, looked into his eyes,
"I'll be okay."
        Reese sensed his willingness to stay, and face it to the
end, "All right.  Fill me in."
        Nick quickly turned, and buried his eyes into the screen,
Paul observed his mind, but mostly; his silence.  Paul leaned back
into his chair, looked up at Reese's stressful face, "A newborn was
discovered in a box, in the middle of the alley.  Jack discovered the
mother's body on a mattress inside the warehouse.  She was about
sixteen or so, maybe."
        Reese, frustrated, placed his hands upon his lips, sighed,
"Great."
        Nick leaned back, a touch, "and we found a blood trail with
a single cufflink; with DV on it."
        "DV," Reese repeated.
        "Yeah.  Kathy has everything at the lab." Paul informed him.
        "She was not alone; someone delivered that baby, and left
them to die." Nick said strongly, tapping a pencil upon his desk.
        "What a slime ball." Reese uttered, "Okay, keep filling in
the file, and keep me posted."
        "Sure thing," Paul agreed, leaning upon Nick's desk.
        Reese nodded his head in silence, slowly turned about, and
returned to his office.  Nick entered the last note into the file,
shut the computer down, and leaned upon his elbows with his face in
the palm of his hands.  He then leaned back into his chair, stared up
at the ceiling, and suddenly tossed the pencil upward; it stuck into
the tile.  Paul looked up, and saw several pencils stuck in the tile.
        He then looked to Nick, and he to Paul, "Old habit."
        Paul sighed, "Okay, I'm starving, time for food."
        "Good.  What's on the menu?" Nick inquired.
        Paul hesitated at first, too early for the Raven, "How about
pizza for now, Raven later."
        Nick laughed, stress became less, "Pizza, soon you will look
like one."
        Paul stood up, aside from his chair, and clapped his hands. 
Paul grinned proudly, "Cool."
        Nick let out a little belly laugh, "Funny.  Come on, then
the lab."
        Paul grabbed his arm, and dragged him out of the station
then outside.  They walked down the stairs, and over to Nick's car. 
Nick unlocked the doors, they opened, and they climbed in.  They
closed the doors; he started the engine, and pulled away from the
curb.
        Nick casually drove through the city, to Charlie's pizza
place.  He noticed an empty parking space out front, and carefully
rolled in.  Nick parked, turned the engine off, and they stepped out
of the car; closed their doors.  Nick locked them, and they strolled
upon the sidewalk then inside the restaurant.  A waiter approached
them, and politely showed them to the booth, in the back; in the
corner.  Paul quickly ordered for them, waiter left, and they slid
into their seats.  The waiter came by their booth, and left their
drinks then left once again.
        Nick moved his hand to pick up his drink, and gulped it
about twice.  He placed it back down on the table, sighed then a
slight burp, "Excuse me."
        Paul snickered, "Feel better?"
        "A little," Nick answered.
        Paul leaned upon the table with his fingers clasped
together, "It's rough the first two days then it gets better; but
never easy."
        "I agree." Nick mumbled, sipping his drink.
        Paul felt enough said, and decided to change the subject,
"Are you planning another trip with Molly?"
        Nick seems to have relaxed, "Just a weekend trip."
        "Cool.  How's Lucien and Jamie?" he inquired about their
welfare.
        Nick laughed slightly, "Still newlyweds."
        Paul rubbed his face in surprise; but not really, "Whoa."
        Nick just glanced at him, "They're fine."
        Paul cleared his throat to warn him, "Cool.  Believe it or
not, Carla and I are going skiing."
        Nick raised his index finger to Paul's chest, "No broken
bones."
        "I'll try." Paul mumbled, "Where are you going?"
        Nick leaned forward, hugging his glass, "Just rent a cabin
in the mountains, and hide."
        "Cool." Paul replied, understanding his plan.
        The waiter quietly appeared with their food, placed it into
the middle of the table, with plates and napkins; then left.  They
both dug in, and began to enjoy their lunch.
        "This pizza is great." Paul said, happily.
        "I second the motion." Nick said holding his water glass up.
        Paul copied his gesture, clangs them together, and finished
the pizza within thirty minutes or so.  They took the last bite; the
last drop of water, Nick's cell phone rang.  Nick quickly wiped his
hands and mouth with a napkin, reached into his pant pocket, and
pulled his phone out.
        He pushed the button, "Knight,"
        A soft familiar voice came across, "Its Kathy, stop by."
        Nick glanced over to Paul, "We were planning on it, after
lunch.  Be there in ten."
        "Thanks, later." Kathy said, hanging up.
        Nick hung up his cell phone, placed it back into his pocket,
and pulled out some money for his share.  
        Paul observed every move he made, leaned back into the
booth, hesitated for the moment, "What's up?"
        "Kathy," Nick mentioned her name.
        Paul felt something has changed, took place, "Let's roll."
        They quickly slid out, stood, and walked out of the
restaurant.  They walked over to the car, Nick unlocked the doors,
they opened, and they climbed in.  They closed the doors; Nick
started the engine, carefully backed out, and drove back into the
heart of the city; to the Forensics building.
        Nick parked the car along the curb.  He turned the engine
off; they opened the doors, and stepped out.  They closed the doors,
Nick locked them, and they strolled up the stairs; inside the lab. 
They saw Kathy hunched over the slab where the baby laid; covered
with a white sheet.  Nick couldn't help but notice the sadness, and
anger in her eyes.  Paul and Nick walked up, and stood on each side
of her.  Kathy glanced over to her right, saw Paul's shadow, and then
saw Nick at her left.
        Kathy stood up straight, "Hey, guys.  Here's your copy." 
         Kathy slowly handed it to him; he took it, "Go ahead."
        Kathy took in a deep breath, exhaled, "The girl, Tara
Wilmont, five-foot-six, one hundred, and thirty pounds or so.  She
had brown hair, and brown eyes.  Tara was sixteen years old, and died
shortly after childbirth."
        "How?" Paul asked quietly.
        Kathy swallowed slightly hard, Nick felt the tension, "When
the baby's head was out, the person pulled the baby out of her;
causing her to hemorrhage, and the baby died from the forced
delivery, and drowning."
        Paul and Kathy quietly finished talking, but Nick felt
slightly confused, he tapped Kathy's forearm to redraw her attention,
"Drowning?"
        Kathy slowly turned her head to face him directly, "Yeah, as
the baby passes through the birth canal, the fluid is forced out of
its lungs to breathe; to cry.  Remember that delivery you did way
back?"
        "Damn," Nick whispered.
        Kathy turned slightly, touched his forearm, "Nick, where it
was you're first time, its tradition for you to name him."
        Nick looked at her in shock, and horror.  He quickly stepped
away from the slab, glaring at Paul, "I can't."
        "It's tradition." Kathy expressed.
        Paul saw the horror, and fear build in his eyes, his body
became stiff as a board, "Its okay,"
        Paul walked over to Nick, stood by his side, and touched his
back.  Nick looked to him, tried to calm him down.
        "Later." Nick requested.
        Paul nodded and rubbed his back slightly.  Paul quickly
changed the subject; to change the atmosphere around Nick.
        "Okay, the blood on the bed, and the sheets, was it Tara's?"
he questioned.
        Kathy stared at Nick, and he looked away then she gave Paul
full attention.  Kathy left Nick alone to compose himself again.
        "All right, yes the blood on the bed, and the sheets, was
Tara's.  But the blood spatter from the box to the cufflink is
unknown.  Possibly belongs to DV."  
        Paul noticed Nick wasn't ready to continue, so he took
control, "No name popped up?"
        "The print was too smudged, and only half, so I sent it to
Allen to identify." she explained.
        Paul's face lit up by the sound of his friend's name, "How
is Allen?"
        "Great." Kathy said, "Also her family, and address are in
the files."
        "Thanks." Paul whispered.
        Nick's nerves were shot and very touchy, "Call us on the
rest." 
        He took in a few deep breaths' to calm those nerves down. 
Paul lightly touched Kathy's upper arm, and followed Nick outside.
        Paul slowly walked outside, and saw Nick standing at the
bottom of the stairs.  Paul cautiously walked down, and stood by his
side.  Nick strolled over to the car with Paul close behind, and Paul
moved to his side.  Nick unlocked the doors; they opened, and stepped
in.  They closed the doors; Nick started the engine then hesitated,
staring out the windshield.  Paul poked his arm, showed him the
address, and Paul tossed the file into the backseat.  Nick pulled
away from the curb, and slowly drove to Tara's home.  Paul felt the
anger, sadness, his nerves have been shattered, and he's slowly
loosing control; his grip on things.  Paul feels Nick needs LaCroix
for comfort, and security; to continue on.  Paul kept a very close
eye, and hand on Nick.
        
        Nick saw the driveway in the distance; he put his left
directional on, and carefully drove in.  He turned the engine off;
they opened, and climbed out.  When they closed the doors, Nick
locked them, and walked up the path to the front door.  Nick stood at
the bottom step, Paul stepped up one, rang the door bell, and they
waited patiently.  Suddenly, a woman, tired and worn, appeared,
looked through the window.  She slowly opened the door, glanced at
them, and opened the door; a crack.  
        Paul flashed his badge, then Nick, "I'm Detective Paul
Coletti, my partner, Detective Nick Knight; may we speak with you?"
        "What this about?" the woman asked in fear.
        Paul stepped closer, "Elizabeth Wilmont, is you're
daughter's name Tara Wilmont?"
        Elizabeth, sadly fearing the news, "Yes,"
        Paul cleared his throat, "Inside, please."
        She opened the door wider for them, "Its Beth, come in."
Beth said quietly.
        "Thank you." Paul whispered, as they passed by her.
        Nick and Paul passed by her, into the house, and stood in
the doorway; by the living room.  Beth closed both doors, turned, and
escorted them into the living room; by the couch.  The couch
stretched behind them, a coffee table in front of their knees.  A
fireplace in front with a chair off to the left side.  A small table
along side with a lamp, and a book.  A small wooden stool sat by the
chair.  Plants in each corner, paintings along the walls, and a
television to their right.  Beth sat down in the chair while Nick and
Paul rested upon the couch.  Beth sadly looked up into their eyes,
she saw the pain; more in Nick's eyes.
        "Has something happened to Tara?" Beth asked, with a slight
whimper.  
        Nick peeked at Paul's face, "There's never an easy way, we
found your daughter this morning, and the baby."
        Beth gasped at the news, covered her lower face with her
hands, and cried silently.  Nick and Paul gave her a few moments to
grief her loss.
        "Oh my, God," Beth sobbed quietly.
        Nick sighed slightly, looked to Beth, "We're terribly sorry,
and if you're up to it; we need to ask a few questions."
        Beth took her tissue, wiped her eyes then blew her nose,
"I'll try."
        "Thank you." Nick replied.
        Nick stood and walked around the coffee table, sat down on
the small stool near Beth.  He cleared his throat to draw her
attention towards him.  Nick folded his hands, placed an arm on each
thigh, "Do you know who the father was?"
        Beth sniffed her tears back, "No, she never told me.  She
was staying at the Latham Home for teens."
        Nick unfolded his hands, rubbed his worn chin with his right
hand, "All right, what about her friends?"
        Paul sensed Nick drifting away; he stood up, and moved over
to Nick's side; to comfort him.  Beth felt her sadness; her heart
breaking, "Her room is down the hall, you may look there.  I can't---
I need…"
        Paul stepped over, placed his warm left hand upon her
shoulder, "It's all right.  Take a few, and we'll look."
        "Thank you." Beth replied with a shaken touch to Paul's hand.
        Beth looked into Nick's eyes, she saw his pain and his
frustration, "The baby; boy or girl?"
        Nick dampened his dry, cracked lips, lightly touched her
hand, "It was a boy."
        Beth, cried harder, "Oh, God,"
        Paul stepped back, placed his right hand on Nick's upper
back, and he looked up into Paul's eyes.  Paul silently tilted his
head, showing Nick its time to explore Tara's room.  Beth needs to be
alone; for the moment.  Nick slowly stood up, Paul led the way down
the hall, and they saw Tara's name plate on her bedroom door.  Paul
slowly reached down, turned the doorknob, and opened the door.  It
slowly opened with a slight creek in the hinges.  Nick nervously
peeked in, and saw her room; slightly dusty, but untouched.
        To their right, a dresser ran along the wall with a lamp,
and a small jewelry box.  The wall had a huge bay window with flowers
growing in gray pots.  Directly in front of them, a twin size bed
with a night stand; on the left side with a lamp and a book.  Along
the other wall, closest to Nick, a closet with a poster of a cat on
it.  Paul roamed the left side while Nick roamed the right.
        They each strolled their sides, and examined everything in
sight.  Paul stood by the closet, opened the door, and got a slight
surprise.  A mirror on the door, but no clothes in the closet;
nothing.  He closed the door, and continued on.  Nick stood in front
of the dresser, and gently opened each drawer.  He opened the small
drawer to his right, and a photograph was stuck in the back.  Nick
slowly reached in, grabbed the corner of it, and carefully pulled it
out.  He flipped it over, and saw Tara, with a man behind her,
holding her by the wrist.  Nick whistled slightly for Paul to come
and look.
        "Any name on it?" Paul asked.
        Nick flipped the picture around once more, saw nothing then
returned to their faces, "No.  What do you think?"
        Paul stared at the photo, "Close to our age, with a sixteen
year old girl; big no-no."
        "I agree." Nick sighed feeling frustrated, "Let's go show it
to Beth." 
        Paul and Nick scanned the room, to make sure nothing was out
of place.  They carefully left the room; Paul closed the door, and
walked down the hall into the living room.  They saw Beth still
sitting in the chair; weltered and withdrawn.  They quietly walked
over to her, Nick sat down on the small stool and quietly cleared his
throat to draw her attention; but mostly, calm his nerves; or trying
to.
        "I'm truly sorry for your loss, but we found this picture. 
Do you know the man in the picture; behind Tara?" he questioned.
        Beth moved her weary head, looked at the picture, and
sniffed, "That's Davy."
        Paul stood erect, "Davy," he thought loudly, "David."
        Beth turned to face Paul directly, "Yes.  She dated him a
few times then ended it when she found out he was married."
        "Do you know his job; where we can find him?" Nick asked.
        Beth gave Nick a quick stare, looked away then again, "I
didn't tell you."
        Paul gently placed his left hand upon her shoulder, "It's
all right, your upset." 
        Beth carefully wiped her eyes then her nose, looked to
Nick's face, "He's a cop; he drives a car."
        Nick's face filled with shock, his body became stiff and
angry, "What?" he mumbled, reaching into his jacket pocket, and
pulled out his business card, "Thank you Beth.  Here's my card, call
if you need or remember anything else."
        "We'll be in touch." Paul added.
        Nick slowly stood up to face Paul directly.  Paul leaned
over, squeezed her shoulder, "Thank you."  
        Nick tugged his arm; a little hard, "Let's go,"
        Paul heard the anger and frustration in his voice, and felt
it in his grip.  Paul followed Nick out of the house; to the outside,
and walked over to the caddy.  Nick unlocked the doors; they opened,
and climbed in.  They closed the doors, and Nick stared out the
windshield; Paul watched very closely.  
        Nick hands turned red, squeezing the wheel, "Unreal."
        "One of us," Paul added.
        Nick turned quickly, glared into Paul's face, "No way." he
said firmly, "He's on his own, his own class; none."
        Paul cleared his throat to redirect Nick's focus to the
case, and away from his anger and frustration, "Let's go to the
Latham Home, and see what they have.  Maybe, a last name,"
        Nick ceased up his grip on the wheel, "If not, it's a long
night with the computer."
        "Let's go." Paul said sitting back.
        Nick gave a silent nod of his head, started the engine. 
Before Nick could back up, his cell phone ran.  He reached into his
pant pocket, pulled his phone out, and pushed the button.
        "Knight," Nick announced proudly.
        A soft, soothing, but familiar voice came across the
receiver causing Nick to smile slightly.
        "Ebourn," Molly said.
        Nick sighed, "Hey, what's up?"
        Molly laughed a little, "I got the rest of the day off, and
I want to cook dinner; anything special?"
        Nick hesitated, rolled a few ideas, "Something with pasta."
        Molly's voice dropped a tone or two, softer, slightly
seductive, "Alfredo."
        "Yeah," Nick whispered in return.
        "White wine." Molly replied, warmly.
        Nick's smile got a little wider, and Paul took notice,
"Great."
        Molly giggled, "Desert---us."
        Nick blushed, lowered his head, and laughed slightly,
"Perfect."
        "Love you." Molly whispered.
        "Love you, too." Nick warmly returned the feeling, "Make it
around eight."
        "Okay, bye." Molly said happily.
        Nick hung up his cell phone, and returned to his pocket, and
noticed Paul's grinning face.
        Paul laughed slightly, saw that look, and tried to hide it;
but failed.
        "What?" Nick asked.
        "Molly." Paul said snickering.
        Nick gave him the serious look, crinkled an eyebrow, "Yeah."
        Paul cleared his throat, "Cool."
        Nick put the car in reverse, and backed out.  Then in drive,
and drove quickly to the other side of the city; to the Latham Home. 
The Latham House for Teens was built for runaway teens in trouble;
pregnant girls or violence in the home.
        Nick drove through the green light, saw the building in the
distance, and pulled up along the curb.  He turned the engine off;
they opened the doors, and stepped out.  They closed them, and Nick
locked the doors.  They slowly walked up the stairs, and inside.  The
lobby was filled with chairs and couches.  A few teens were sitting
down, and a hand full was pregnant.  Paul noticed a desk off to his
right, and lightly tapped Nick's arm.  They quietly strolled over to
the desk; a woman looked up, and cleared her throat to address them
properly.
        "Hello.  My name is Mary.  May I help you?" she asked
politely.
        Nick flashed his badge, as well as Paul, "I'm Detective
Knight, and he's Detective Coletti.  May we speak with someone in
charge?"
        Mary hesitated, "That would be Lisa Staples." she replied,
"Hold a moment."
        "Thank you." Nick said quietly.
        Mary turned slightly, picked up her receiver, and dialed
Lisa's office.  She informed her they were here to see her.
        Mary hung up the phone, returned to Nick and Paul, "She'll
be right down.  You may wait in the lobby."
        Paul looked over into that direction then back to Mary,
"Thank you."
        Paul and Nick casually strolled into the lobby, and waited. 
They observed the paintings that hung along the walls, and the
teenager's that surrounded them.  Nick could not help notice the
young girl's that were pregnant; so young and innocent.  Paul turned
his head around to the last painting then noticed an older woman
approaching him, black-grayish hair about fifty years old or so; very
stern.  She quickly approached and stood directly in front of them
with her hands folded.
        "I'm Lisa Staples.  I own this home." Lisa said proudly.
        They each displayed their badges for her, "I'm Detective
Knight, and this is Detective Coletti.  May we go somewhere more
private?"
        Lisa felt something horrible had taken place, "Follow me."
she requested, stopped at the desk, "Mary, hold all calls."
        "Yes ma'am." Mary answered.
        Lisa led them through a door, down the narrow corridor, and
stopped at the elevator.  She pushed the up button, the doors slowly
slid open, and they stepped inside.  Lisa leaned over, and pushed the
button for the third floor.  The elevator slowly rode to the third
floor, the doors slid open, and they exited the elevator.  Lisa led
the way to the end, and opened the door to her office; the last one
on the right.  Lisa closed the door, walked over and around her desk;
sat down.  Paul pulled up a pair of chairs for him and Nick.  They
quietly sat down, and Lisa leaned forward to give them full attention
to the matter at hand.
        Lisa looked towards Nick, "All right, what seems to be the
problem?"
        Nick rested his chin upon his fingers of his right hand,
"Did you have a Tara Wilmont living here?"
        Lisa appeared surprised, and a touch relieved, "Yes, did you
find her?"
        Nick was about to answer, then hesitated.  Paul jumped in,
"Yes.  Regretfully, we found her and the baby this morning."
        Lisa gasped, "Oh my, God,"
        Paul leaned forward, arched his back, "I'm afraid so," he
answered, "Can you tell us anything?"
        Lisa managed to compose herself, leaned and sat up straight,
"She came to us when she was about four months pregnant.  She told me
the father was married, and a cop.  Tara was afraid to go home, so we
did family counseling, and she had plans to give the baby up for
adoption."
        Nick sat up, cleared his throat, "His name."
        Paul turned to look at Nick; to see his condition.  Lisa,
surprised, "All she would say was Davy."
        "How about friends?" Nick inquired.
        "Very few.  There not here today, but tomorrow afternoon,
Randy will be here." Lisa expressed.
        Nick reached into his coat pocket, pulled out the
photograph, and gently placed it upon her desk, "Here's a picture, do
you know this guy?"
        Lisa picked up the picture with her left hand, and examined
the gentleman for a few moments, "Well, it's not one of her friends;
it might be Davy."
        Lisa handed the picture back to Nick, and he gave her a
business card, "Thank you.  Here's my card, call if you think of
anything else."
        Lisa stood up, folded her arms in front, "I will; such a
loss."
        Paul and Nick also stood, "I agree."
        Lisa sighed, "Do you remember the way out?"
        Nick looked to Paul, "Yes, thanks."
        Paul shook hands with Lisa, and followed Nick out of the
office.
        Nick pushed the button, the doors slid open, and they walked
into the elevator.  The doors closed, Nick pushed the lobby button,
and the elevator slowly rode down.  The elevator hit the bottom, and
it shook slightly; making Nick a little uneasy.  The doors slid open,
they walked out of the elevator; Nick nearly ran out.  Paul tried to
keep up with Nick.  They quickly walked out of the building; outside,
and over to Nick's car.  Nick unlocked the doors; they opened them,
and climbed in.  They closed their door, Paul got cozy, but Nick
hesitated behind the wheel.  He glared out the window; in deep
thought.  Paul lightly tapped his arm to draw his attention to him.
        Paul snapped his fingers, "Hey, Buddy, where are you?"
        Nick blinked his blue eyes, leaned back into his seat, and
let out a long, stressful sigh, "Not sure."
        "Is it this case?" Paul questioned.
        Nick looked to Paul then stared into his steering wheel,
"Yeah.  I have seen a lot of hate, sadness, and death; but nothing
like this, a newborn."
        Paul noticed his nerves are just about shot, and gone.  Paul
turned slightly to face him, "It's the cruelest crime ever."
        Nick pulled his keys from his coat pocket, "True.  All
right, I need a beer, and LaCroix.  Let's go to the Raven then home."
        Paul sensed it was time, his nerves needed to be comforted
by someone he loves; LaCroix.  "I'll get the bus there, after a beer."
        Nick reached for the mike, and handed it to Paul, "Done. 
Call in, and take us off the clock."
        "Done," Paul said, smiling, and took the mike.
        Nick put his keys into the ignition, and started the engine.
Nick scanned his surroundings, carefully pulled away from the curb,
and headed for the Raven to enjoy a beer; and LaCroix.  Nick spotted
the club, slowly pulled over, and drove along the curb.  He turned
the engine off; they opened the door, and climbed out.  They closed
them, Nick locked the doors, and they strolled along the sidewalk; up
to the front door.  Nick slowly opened the door, with a slight creek
in the hinges, and they stood by the railing; as the door closed
behind them.
        Blue lighting filled the room, a silver ball slowly rotated
high above them; adding a glitter affect to the atmosphere, and heavy
metal music vibrating in the background.  Nick spotted LaCroix
sitting at the bar, on a stool with his arms firmly; completely
around Jamie.  Scott, pacing, back and forth behind them; serving
drinks.  Nick and Paul turned, carefully walked down the stairs, and
quietly approached LaCroix.  Jamie caught a glimpse of Nick, and
grinned.  LaCroix grinned, thought it was for him until he saw the
direction of her eyes.  He looked over to his right, saw Nick, tired
and withdrawn.  LaCroix saw his troubled eyes, and slouched
shoulders.  LaCroix reached over with his right hand, and gently
squeezed his upper left arm; he got no reaction.
        LaCroix turned slightly to face Nick, "Nicholas,"
        "LaCroix," Nick replied with a slight stutter.
        "What brings you here?" LaCroix inquired.
        Nick placed his hands into his pockets, looked towards the
floor then to LaCroix's comforting eyes, "A rough case, and two
beers."
        LaCroix sensed his troubled soul, "Oh dear." he whispered,
but continued, "Come on.  Jamie, excuse me please."
        Jamie looked to LaCroix, "No problem." she said, kissing his
nose.  "Hi, Nicholas,"
        Nick hesitated, "Hey,"
        LaCroix stood up, wrapped his arm around Nick's weary
shoulders.  Nick grabbed his beer, and LaCroix escorted Nick into the
backroom.  They slowly sat down on the couch.  They settled into the
back cushions of the couch, Nick stared into his beer, and LaCroix
felt the sadness; but mostly, anger emanating from his body.
        LaCroix observed Nick's stiffness, "What happened?"
        Nick sighed loudly, "We found the body's of a sixteen year
girl, and her newborn."
        LaCroix stroked his lips and chin, leaned closer to Nick,
"Oh dear,"
        Nick sniffed a tear back, but LaCroix did see the few tears
he shed.  Nick turned to face LaCroix directly, "For the first time,
I think---I threw up."
        "I see." LaCroix said quickly.  Nick gulped his beer down,
placed it between his thighs, "It was the first time---seeing that."
        LaCroix rested his head upon his hand, elbow into the
cushion; crossed his legs.  He felt the need to comfort; to ease his
nerves, "Any clues?"
        "It was a cop." Nick said relaxing a little.
        LaCroix gasped at the sheer thought, "You're district."
        Nick turned to sit closer to him, "Yeah.  He's married, and
he did this." he said then looked to LaCroix's wisdom, "Why?"
        LaCroix clasped his fingers together, and felt a slight
change in the subject before him.  LaCroix sensed a personal
discussion coming, "Why?  I don't know.  I have never understood that
concept.  If you're married, she should be it."
        "True." Nick said in agreement.
        LaCroix snickered slightly, "No answer to Adultery."
        Nick faced him eye-to-eye, "It's wrong."
        "Yes it is." LaCroix replied.
        "The baby." Nick suggested for an answer.
        LaCroix paused a moment, "Tragic loss, no excuse there." he
said, "Some things may never have an answer."
        Nick rubbed his index finger along the rim of the glass,
"True.  I have been asked to name the baby; for the burial tomorrow."
        "Have you chosen one?" LaCroix inquired.
        Nick sighed slightly, "No.  The baby----it was a boy."
        "Can I help?" LaCroix asked.
        Nick turned and sat up straight, placing the glass upon the
table, "Pick a name with me."
        LaCroix felt the pain and the need for help.  LaCroix
scooted and sat on the edge of the couch.  He gave him a little slap
on his thigh, "All right."
        "Tomorrow, time to go home." Nick started, exhaled looking
at his watch, "Molly made dinner for me."
        LaCroix stood with a slight laugh, "Wonderful.  Call me in
the morning."
        "I'll try, thank you." Nick said standing up and gave him a
hug.
        Nick started to leave LaCroix's side, when LaCroix reached
out and grabbed Nick's hand.  Nick stopped, turned to face him, "One
more thing.  I need your help in buying a car."
        Nick laughed slightly; a laugh he needed, "You,"
        LaCroix felt a little insulted, folded his arms, "I could
fly."
        Nick stepped up to him, placed a hand on each upper arm, got
very close to his face, "Buy the car." he strongly recommended;
stepped back, "What do you want?"
        LaCroix peeked at Nick's eyes, looked away placing his
fingers upon his lips, "One with a big trunk."
        Nick also laughed slightly, "Funny,"
        "Later," LaCroix said, time to go he suggested.
        Nick left LaCroix in the backroom, walked through the
doorway, and noticed Paul had left the club.  Nick strolled up the
stairs, and outside.  He stood upon the sidewalk, inhaled the cool
crisp air then exhaled.  Nick pulled his keys out from his pant
pocket, strolled over to the caddy, and unlocked the door.  He opened
the door, climbed in, and closed the door.  Nick placed the key into
the ignition, turned and started the engine.  Nick observed his
surroundings, pulled away from the curb, and slowly drove home; to
Molly.
        
        Nick slowly turned into the alleyway, parked the caddy next
to the elevator.  He turned the engine off, removed his key, and
climbed out.  He closed the door, and locked the caddy up for the
night.  Nick stepped into the elevator, rode up to his loft, and
entered into the living room.  He slowly walked over to the table; by
the couch.  Nick emptied his pockets, and placed his gun into the
small drawer then locked it.  Nick stood by the counter, inhaled the
warm scent of the Alfredo sauce, and saw the candles on the table
burning; a soft white glow emanated from them.  Nick then saw Molly;
she stood by a chair wearing a white silk dress with a gold chain.  
She wore a soft; but subtle perfume, he inhaled a slight aroma, which
aroused him; a touch.  Flowers around the candles, and a bottle of
white wine; chilling in a silver bucket.
        Nick stood stunned, unable to move, glared upon Molly, as
she slowly walked up to him, "Wow."
        Molly slowly reached up, touched the top button; under his
neck, "You like it?"
        Nick, feeling slightly hot; aroused, "Very much so,"
        Molly gave a glowing smile, "Good, hungry."
        Nick reached over, wrapped his left arm around her waist,
and the other, he stroked her hair then her upper back, "Starving," 
        Molly warmly kissed Nick's dry lips then pushed away, "Come
on."
        Molly wrapped herself around his body, and escorted him to
his seat.  Nick politely pulled out her chair, she sat down.  He sat,
very close to her, and they affectionately fed each other; enjoying
the warm cooked meal.  They proposed a silent toast with the wine,
kissed each other, and slightly giggled from the atmosphere that
surrounded them; pure love.  After about a couple of hours, they
slowly picked up the dishes, and brought them into the kitchen. 
Molly grabbed the wine, and Nick gently blew out the candles.  They
snuggled shoulder-to-shoulder, slowly walked up the stairs, and down
the small hall.  Molly led the way into their bedroom with Nick close
behind.  Nick placed the wine bottle down on his nightstand, and
strolled into the bathroom while Molly got the bed ready; for the
night.  Nick hesitated a few moments then exited wearing his pajama
pants.  Nick took notice Molly wearing her powder-blue nighty, and
crawled into bed with her.
        Molly turned to look at Nick's blue eyes, she noticed how
silent he was; he was there, but not really.  She sat up and close to
his side, "What's wrong?"
        Nick glanced into her soft face, seeking comfort, "We found
a dead sixteen year old girl and her newborn son."
        Molly warmly placed her hand upon Nick's cheek, and felt a
tear, "Oh, Nick."
        Nick leaned back onto the headboard, let out a long sigh,
"For the first time, that I can remember, I threw up---at the scene." 
        Molly caringly placed her hand upon the calf of his right
leg, and gently stroked it, "My poor guy."
        "The father is a possible married cop." Nick informed her.
        Molly gasped at the shocking thought, "That's very close and
personal to you."
        "Yeah," Nick sighed.
        Molly gently lay across his legs and wrapped her arms around
his waist; resting her head upon his waist, "I'm so sorry,"
        Nick sat flat upon the bed, placed both hands upon her mid-
back, and slowly massaged her muscles.  Molly sensed Nick relaxing;
calming down.  She felt it was a good moment to change the subject;
take his mind away from the tragic case.
        "Anything good?" Molly queried.
        Nick suddenly cracked a hint of a smile, "LaCroix's finally
buying a car."
        Molly tilted her upper body upward to see Nick's smile,
"Good.  Anything I can do for you?"
        Nick jerked his head back an inch, looked into her eyes,
"What do you have in mind?"
        Molly sat up on her heals, and smiled widely.  Molly reached
up with her hands; she took hold of the straps, and slowly pulled her
nighty off.
        Molly straddled her warm body over him, "Dessert."
        "Oh yeah," Nick responded, lightly warm all over.
        Nick reached up to her waist, but she held his hands away. 
Nick slid down, and laid out straight on the bed.  Molly placed his
hands by his head, she scooted down, and gently pulled the string;
she pulled his pajama pants completely off.  Molly saw him fully
aroused.  She crawled back up to his face, firmly held his hands, and
kissed him passionately.
        "Allow me." Molly said.
        Nick grinned, "Let me have it,"
        Molly giggled; a touch, "No problem."
        Nick willingly left his hands by his head.  Molly gently
kissed him, his neck, licked and stroked his chest.  Nick quietly
moaned with each kiss, as he felt his body becoming warmer.  Molly
kissed her way down to his stomach; to his waist.  Molly gave his
stomach a gentle kiss, and a warm stroke.  She felt his body move
slightly and a louder moan from him.  She crawled up, and kissed him.
Nick could not hold back, he placed his hands around her waist. 
Molly carefully placed herself over his lower body until Nick
penetrated her.  They felt the heat; the passion, and the
overwhelming flow of love.  Molly slowly moved her body up and then
down.  Nick holding her as tight as possible with each stroke.  Both
sweating from the heat building.  The more she moved; the more they
felt the love surging.  Finally, Nick let out a loud sigh of ecstasy,
as well as Molly.  She moved a little faster.  Nick trying to hold
Molly closer, he sweated more.  Molly moved in small, but faster
strokes until Nick felt his ultimate climax.  Molly stayed; froze for
a moment, sighed in a deep ecstasy, and laid upon Nick's chest.  Nick
wrapped his arms around, sighed and shook slightly.  They hesitated,
and lay still for a few moments to savor the love they just shared. 
Nick carefully pulled the blanket up, and over them with his foot. 
They slowly drifted off to sleep; in each others arms.  Nick twitched
as the heat of their passion slowly calmed down.
        The remaining night hours slowly passed into mid-morning. 
The sun rose into the blue sky, sun beamed through the blinds, shined
upon the bed, and slowly rode up to Nick's glowing face, and boyish
grin.  It beamed into his eyelids, closed them tight, and moved his
face away.  He woke up, wiped the sleep from his eyes, and glanced
over to Molly.  Nick grinned warmly, stroked her soft cheek with his
left hand, and she snuggled even closer to him.  Nick felt the
squeeze and moaned slightly.  Molly rolled slightly, sighed happily,
and opened her eyes to Nick's glowing boyish grin.  She returned the
smile, sat up slightly, and kissed him passionately.  Nick returned
the love to her.
        Molly leaned up, and against Nick's upper body, "Hi,"
        "Hi," Nick replied.
        Molly displayed the playful pose with a grin, "How do you
feel this morning?"
        Nick, bashful and shy, "Warm, you?"
        Molly looked straight into his eyes, "Content."
        Nick, slightly surprised, "Really." he said, "How about a
weekend in the mountains, just the two of us?"
        Molly sat up straight, folded her hands, "I would love that;
where?"
        Nick hesitated, paused a moment, "Someplace different, and
new."
        Molly suddenly withdrew a little, "Okay.  I'll look in my
book, and pick one."
        Molly slowly turned and sat on the edge of the bed; Nick
leaned up, and climbed out of the bed and sat by her side.
        Nick noticed she was quiet and withdrawn.  He gently placed
a hand upon her lower back, she twitched slightly.  Molly sniffed
slightly, Nick leaned towards her, "Something else is bothering you,
what is it?"
        "I can't." Molly mumbled.
        Nick returned his hand to her lower back, stroked her upper
arm, "I love you, good and bad.  What is it?"
        "It's not easy." Molly said looking at Nick's serious, but
worried face.
        Nick cleared his throat, "Just say it honey."
        "I'm----uhm----I'm…" Molly started.
        "Molly." Nick said to reassure her.
        Molly slowly raised her head, faced him with a few tears,
"I'm a few days late."
        Nick, not realizing at the moment, "Late, for what?"
        Molly saw he was a little lost, "Uhm----my period, it's late."
        Nick suddenly widened his eyes, "Period, what?"
        Molly slowly closed her eyes, and lowered her head away. 
Nick suddenly thought what she was trying to explain.  He warmly took
her into his arms, cuddled her until she felt safe.  Molly quickly
pulled away, sat along the edge, and leaned up against the headboard.
She looked to Nick's confused eyes, covered her lips with her hands.
        "Nick," she whispered.
        Nick sat there, glanced into her frightened eyes, "Honey, I
love you, never be afraid to tell me anything."   
        Molly nervously wiped her tears away, "I don't know for
sure, I'm only a few days late."
        Nick carefully reached over, held her hand tight, and placed
a hand upon her wet soft cheek, "If you are pregnant, that's
wonderful.  If not, it's still okay."
        Molly gasped at the sound of the word, "Really?"
        Nick moved an inch towards her, "Either way, its okay." he
said to assure her, "I won't stop loving you.  We use protection, but
it's not a hundred percent solid."
        Molly lowered her tear-filled eyes, "Nick, I'm so sorry."
        Nick gently squeezed her hands for her to look at his eyes,
"Honey, no apology needed.  If WE are pregnant, love it.  If WE are
not pregnant, someday.  Okay."
        Molly quickly moved closer to him, wrapped her arms around
his neck, as Nick held her around the waist.
        "I love you so much.  I will never doubt you again." she said.
        "Same here." Nick replied holding her tighter.
        Nick held her so tight, she exhaled from the squeeze.  Nick
let out a sigh, sniffed slightly, and leaned back to see her face,
"Why not buy a test, and we will do it together, okay."
        Molly looked deep into his blue eyes, saw the love,
contentment, and how truly honest he was.  Molly sniffed, smiled,
"Okay."
        Nick stretched across the bed, grabbed the few dollars off
his nightstand, and sat back up.  He placed the money into her hands;
she looked directly at him, "Here, my treat."
        "All right; keep it between us, okay." Molly asked calmly.
        Nick thought quietly, "All right, but LaCroix knows me too
well; I can't lie to him."
        "He's family, that's different." Molly said to agree.
        Nick smiled widely, "Deal."
        Molly held his hand as she stood up, and looked into his
face, "Shower time."
        Nick stood up, scanned his body, gave Molly the, 'no way'
look, "What are you trying to say?"
        Molly giggled, slapped his mid-section, "I need you to scrub
my back."
        Nick laughed, "My pleasure."
        Nick slowly walked behind Molly into the bathroom, and he
closed the door.  Molly slid the shower door open, turned the water
on, and fixed the temperature for them.  Molly returned to Nick,
pulled the string on his pants, they fell to the floor; around his
ankles.  Nick carefully stepped out; he reached down, and pulled her
nighty up and over her head.  He placed it behind him, on top of his
pants.  Molly extended her hand, Nick placed his into hers, and she
led him into the shower.  Nick slid the door closed and faced Molly. 
They scrubbed, caressed, kissed, and made love in the shower.
        Nick carefully reached down, turned the water off, and slid
the door open.  Molly stepped out first then Nick.  Molly reached for
the towel behind him, and they slowly dried each other off; with a
few giggles and kisses along the way.  Molly hung the towel back up,
and Nick placed the clothes into the hamper.  Nick opened the
bathroom door; they strolled into the bedroom, and got dressed and
groomed for the day.  They each took a side, and made the bed.  They
scanned the room, met each other at the foot of the bed; held hands,
and strolled out of the bedroom.  They walked down the hall, down the
stairs, and entered the kitchen.
        Molly made a hot pot of coffee while Nick grabbed his things
and his gun.  He strolled to the couch, sat down, and checked his
gun.  He placed it into his belt, and carefully sat back.  Molly
carefully approached him, handed him a mug of coffee, and she sat by
his side.  They quietly enjoyed their coffee.  Molly took Nick's
empty mug, and she placed them onto the table.  She then leaned back
and snuggled into his chest.  Nick stroked her hair, and kissed the
top of her head then grinned warmly.  He silently thought about what
she told him; the possibility of a child.
        Nick gently rubbed her upper arm, "Molly, let's go and eat."
        Molly sighed, "Some place fast, I have a lot of work to do."
        Nick raised his eyes in agreement, "Same here, okay." he
said, and then thought, "Do you want me to go with you; to buy the
test?"
        Molly sat up, turned to see his face, "No.  I'll buy it, and
we'll do it in the morning, together."
        Nick sat up close along side of her, "All right, just
remember what we talked about."
        Molly gently stroked his cheek, "I will." she said kissing
his dry lips, "Let's go."
        Nick smiled, stood up along with Molly, and they slowly
exited the loft.  They stepped into the elevator, the door closed
slowly behind them, and they rode down to Nick's car.  Nick walked
Molly over to her side, unlocked, and opened her door.  She carefully
climbed in, and Nick closed her door.  He strolled to his side,
unlocked his door, and climbed in.  Nick closed his door, they fixed
their seatbelts, and he started the engine.  He cautiously backed up,
and drove quickly to the Golden Griddle for breakfast.
        
        In the heart of the city, Paul had just arrived at the
station.  He carefully stepped off the bus, walked up the stairs,
inside, and strolled down to Nick's desk.  Paul pulled out the chair,
sat down and rolled into the desk.  He turned the computer on; to
warm it up, and pulled out his trusty notebook.  Paul placed the
notebook in front of him, and began dancing upon the keyboard.  As he
hit the keyboard, Nick's phone rang.  Paul reached across, and picked
up the receiver.
        Paul cleared his throat, "Coletti."
        There was a slight pause over the phone, "Hey, Paul, it's
Michael."
        Paul leaned back, grinned, "Hey, Michael."
        "Where's Nick?" Michael inquired.
        Paul devilishly laughed; "Out with Molly, he'll be here
soon." he answered then asked, "What's up?"
        A slight sigh echoed, "I haven't had a chance to talk to him
since his ordeal." he expressed, "and I think I heard something about
that baby you two found."
        Paul moved forward, leaned upon the desk, slightly
concerned, "As soon as he pulls in, we'll be there."
        "Thanks." Michael replied quickly.
        "Later." Paul said as he hung up the phone, returned to the
computer, and the file.
        
        Back at the Golden Griddle, Nick had paid for breakfast, and
escorted Molly through the restaurant then outside.  Nick walked her
to the car, unlocked the door, and opened it.  Molly stepped in, and
Nick closed her door.  He strolled to his side, unlocked the door,
and opened his door.  Nick stepped in, and closed the door. Nick
started the engine, backed out, and slowly drove to the Gallery; for
Molly.  Nick approached the Gallery, pulled up along the curb, and
parked the car.  They slowly turned to face each other, and kissed
passionately.
        Nick slowly leaned back, felt a little tension, "What's
wrong?"
        Molly sighed with a grin, "I feel like a teenage girl in
trouble."
        Nick suddenly sensed the reality of the situation, "Like the
case I'm on."
        Molly looked up, "Sadly, yes."
        Nick lightly tapped her hand, "One big difference."
        "That is?" Molly asked in curiosity.
        Nick stared into her dark brown eyes, all serious, "Let's
say we are, I will not leave you; nor kill you.  I said we, because
it affects us; both.  I love you very much.  The baby is from that
love; whether it's now or later."
        Molly smiled warmly, "You are a rarity."
        Nick smiled widely, "I'm a man in love.  I will take the
responsibility for all of us; even if it's three.  Any man who sheds
or leaves is no man at all."
        Molly reached over, hugged, and squeezed him, "I love you."
        Nick returned the gesture, "I love you, don't worry."
        Molly moved back, looked into his eyes, and saw the love
sparkle in his smile, "Thank you.  Tell me every chance you get." she
implied. 
        "My pleasure.  Lunch later?" Nick inquired.
        "Maybe. I'll call you." Molly said.
        Nick snickered a little, "Don't work too hard."
        Nick leaned to meet Molly; they kissed and embraced each
other warmly.  The heat of the kiss began to grow, as it intensified,
Nick's cell phone rang, which deflated the heat.  
        Nick moved back slightly, pulled his cell phone out from his
jacket pocket, and cleared his throat, "Knight,"
        A familiar voice came across, "Sorry, Buddy.  Kendo Club,
Michael called.  I'll meet you there." Paul said quickly.
        "On my way, later." Nick replied quickly.
        Nick returned his phone to his pocket, and looked to Molly. 
They kissed each other.  Molly opened her door, and climbed out.  She
closed the door, gave Nick a seductive look, and slowly walked away. 
He observed his surroundings, pulled away, and quickly drove to
Michael's place; Cambridge Kendo Club.
        Nick saw the building off to his right, carefully pulled
over, and parked along the curb.  He turned the engine off, opened
the door, and climbed out.  Nick closed his door, locked it, and
strolled up onto the sidewalk.  He opened the door, and saw Paul
leaning up against a pole with his arms folded.  Nick quietly
approached him, stood at his side, and glanced over to see what he
was grinning at.  They saw Michael and a woman doing Kendo moves;
seductively.  Nick bumped Paul's shoulder to draw his attention away
from the scene.
        Paul turned, saw Nick out of the corner of his eye, "Hey,
Buddy." he said to greet him, "How was breakfast?"
        Nick grinned, "Very good."
        Paul grinned wider, "Molly."
        Nick sensed his thought pattern, nudged him in the arm,
"She's fine.  What's going on?"  
        Paul turned slightly to face Nick directly, "Michael called
the station; looking for you.  He thinks he heard something about the
baby." he briefed him. 
        Nick placed his hands into his pockets, "Cool."
        Nick turned his attention to Michael practicing his Kendo
moves; very intense.  He also noticed a woman by his side; but could
not see her face.  The moves were becoming a little seductive, but
very romantic.
        "Is that?" Nick asked.
        "Rose." Paul replied quickly.
        They observed the moves; they saw Michael caressing her
upper right thigh and kissed her warmly upon her neck.  Nick leaned
close to Paul's ear, "I don't think---that's a Kendo move."
        Paul snickered a little, "It's not.  Should we stop them?"
        Nick displayed a devilish grin, "If they hit the floor, yell
Bravo."
        Paul slapped his upper arm, "Cool."
        Nick and Paul stood by the pole, and observed closely for
the perfect moment.  Michael held Rose closer and closer; practicing
Kendo moves.  Michael gently placed his hand upon her mid-back, and
leaned her back.  He gently kissed her left breast, and saw Nick and
Paul out the corner of his eye.  Nick and Paul began to applaud for
the show.  Rose noticed the sudden hesitation; Michael helped her
stand straight, and turned her around.  She saw what Michael saw;
they glanced at each other, and bowed proudly for the applause. Nick
and Paul carefully approached them, applauding still; yelling Bravo.
        The men slowly shook hands; Nick and Paul gave Rose a slight
kiss upon her blushing cheek, "Bravo, great show, what's next?"
        Michael scoffed, "Funny.  Hey, guys."
        Michael reached out, gave Nick a slight hug, "I'm so glad
you're back, and all right." 
        Nick smiled, "Thanks.  Hi, Rose."
        Rose warmly grinned with a slight chuckle, "Hi.  He's told
me so much about you and your recent ordeal."
        Nick crinkled his eyebrow in concern, "All good I hope."
        Rose laughed, "Oh yes, and the lake scene."
        Michael swallowed hard, Nick jerked his head back over to
him, "You didn't."
        "Sorry." Michael mumbled.
        Paul cleared his throat, stepped up to Michael, to block
Nick, "Lake Scene."
        Michael snickered, "He went swimming; butt naked, and got
caught."
        Paul looked over to Nick, chuckled, "Love it, does Molly
know?"
        Nick gave Paul the serious, 'don't go there' look, "No, not
yet."
        "Awesome." Paul whispered with a plan developing.
        "Later." Nick said, trying to change the subject as they
laughed slightly.
        Nick cleared his throat loudly, "Michael, you called about
some information."
        Michael coughed, sensing they harassed him enough, "Oh yeah.
I have a student, Joel Burton.  We had a class yesterday, while I was
cleaning up, he was on the cell phone talking to someone about that
baby, and mentioned Tara."
        "How?" Paul asked, jumping in.
        "Like, he was there, and she was alive.  Then went back to
her, and she was gone." Michael replied.
        Nick sighed in confusion, "Did he mention the birth or death?"
        Michael paused a few, "It sounded like he mentioned her, and
she was still pregnant."
        Paul pulled out his trusty notebook, "Do you have an address
on him?"
        Michael's eyes, shined, "Yeah; Rose, would you mind?"
        "Be right back." Rose said kissing him upon his cheek.
        Rose slowly left his side, but he stared; watching her walk.
        Nick and Paul silently watched him glare and drool, as she
slowly walked away.  Paul looked away with a slight laugh.  Nick
reached up, slapped his stomach lightly.
        Michael turned, saw the looks, cleared his throat; and mind;
"She works here---with me now."
        "What happened to the candle shop?" Paul asked.
        Michael sighed, "She sold it."
        Michael looked to Nick, "How's Molly?"
        Nick smiled widely, "Great."
        Michael clapped his hands together, "We need a guy's night
soon."
        Nick relaxed a little, "True.  We'll pick a night next week.
This case is too crazy."
        "Done," Michael agreed, "How's Allen?" 
        "I haven't seen him yet; he moved into the station with us."
Nick briefed him.
        Michael grinned, "Great."
        "I think so." Paul said eagerly jumping in.
        They quietly continued their man talk, when Rose strolled up
by Michael's side and lightly brushed his arm, "Here you go."
        "Thanks, Rose." Nick replied politely.
        Paul leaned over, turned Michael and Rose to face each
other, "You two continue from where you left off." he suggested
strongly, "We'll be at the station."
        Michael grabbed Rose by her waist, grinned devilishly,
"Cool.  Stay in touch."
        Michael returned to Rose; on the mat while Nick dragged Paul
out of the Kendo Club.  They walked over to the caddy.  Nick unlocked
the doors, and they opened their door.  They climbed in, closed their
door, and Nick started the engine.  Nick observed the traffic, and
pulled away from the curb.  He drove quickly to the station; to work
on the file, and add the new information.
        
        At the Raven, LaCroix rose first.  He looked over, and saw
Jamie sound asleep, and smiling warmly; dreaming.  LaCroix slowly
crawled out of bed, and strolled into the bathroom; closed the door. 
He slid the door open, turned the water on; fixed the temperature,
and stripped down.  LaCroix stepped out of his pants, climbed in, and
closed the door.  He began to clean and massage his body, and washed
his hair.  LaCroix reached down, turned the water off, and slid the
door open.  He carefully stepped out, grabbed a towel, and dried his
entire body off.  He quickly wrapped the towel around his waist, and
exited the bathroom.
        Upon entering the bedroom, he saw Jamie kneeling on the bed;
looking for him.  LaCroix slowly approached, and stood along side of
the bed.  Jamie placed her hands upon his chest, and stomach; warmly
massaging him.  Jamie looked downward then up to his sparkling blue
eyes.
        "Morning." LaCroix whispered.
        Jamie grinned, licked her dry lips, "Morning."
        LaCroix sensed something brewing in her mind, "Is there
something wrong?"
        Jamie let out a little giggle, placed her hand upon his
towel just under his belly button, "You're over dressed."
        LaCroix sensed her next move, "How's that?"
        Jamie took a move closer, "I can help."
        LaCroix rubbed his lips with his fingers, "Please do,"
        Jamie got a firm grip on his towel, and tugged at it.  The
towel slowly fell to the floor, LaCroix stood, completely naked
before her; blushing.  Jamie stroked him, and rubbed his lower back. 
LaCroix jumped slightly from her embrace.  She looked up at him as he
grinned warmly, "Is that better?"
        LaCroix cleared his throat; Jamie smiled, "Much." 
        "You are also---over dressed," 
        Jamie smiled, "Care to help."
        LaCroix licked his lips, "Always."
        LaCroix slowly reached down, took hold of the edge of her
nighty, and slowly lifted it up, and over her head.  They both
stared, and glared at each other.
        LaCroix placed a knee upon the bed, Jamie lay back, and he
slowly crawled upon her.  He kissed her leg, her hip, her stomach,
and he nibbled upon her soft breasts.  Jamie slowly moved to each
kiss, and a slight moan with the heat of his tongue rubbing her
breasts.  Jamie slowly wrapped her legs around him as he came closer,
and penetrated her.  The closer he went, the more she moaned, and
moved with him.  LaCroix felt a strange sensation surging through his
body, that he has not felt in centuries; almost an out of control
surge.  He looked deep into Jamie's eyes, she saw the change;
something different.  LaCroix got closer, and the heat intensified. 
He suddenly froze in fear, Jamie touched him, whispered that it was
all right.  She held him tight as he did in return.  They rolled
over, LaCroix lying on his back; Jamie on top.  She managed to get a
tight hold on him; LaCroix breathing heavy.  Jamie started to slowly
move on top of him; up and down.  The heat was overwhelming. LaCroix
felt that surge coming closer, and closer; very warm and intense. 
Jamie grabbed hold of the headboard, and held him tighter.  Suddenly,
LaCroix felt that surge leave his body.  He wrapped his arms around
her as she melted into his warm body.  LaCroix, shocked by the
sensation, laid there; stunned.
        They lay there very still; heavily breathing.  They slowly
calmed their heat; Jamie looked over, and saw his face; the shock,
"Lucien, what is it?"
        LaCroix slowly turned his eyes to hers, "I felt every
movement, every surge; including the surge into you."
        Jamie gasped, "What?" 
        "I felt the heat of our----climax." he said joyfully.
        Jamie laughed in complete pleasure, "Another human
experience for you."
        "Yes, but let's make sure." 
        Jamie leaned back slightly, "Can you handle another ride?"
        LaCroix rolled over, on top, grinned, "Let's find out."
        Jamie giggled, gave willingly to his new sensation.  Scott
approached their door, heard the giggling; left them alone.
        
        Nick saw the Gallery, pulled up along the curb, and parked. 
He turned the engine off, opened the door, and climbed out.  He
closed and locked the door, walked up the stairs; inside.  Nick
strolled down the small corridor to Molly's office on the left.  He
noticed the door slightly open, he pushed it slowly, and lightly
knocked on it.  Molly jumped slightly, placed her hand upon her
chest, and turned to see Nick standing in the doorway.  Molly, full
of joy, walked quickly towards him, jumped into his arms, and he
lovingly wrapped his arms around her; held her very tight.  Nick
picked her up about an inch, took a few steps in, and closed her door
with his foot.  He walked over, and sat on the corner of her desk
with Molly between his thighs.  Molly passionately kissed him as he
did in return; willingly.
        Nick looked deep into her sable brown eyes seeing a little
uneasiness, "What's wrong?"
        Molly sighed a little, "Stressful day.  The pictures from
Russia are held up in customs.  Three people are out, and the reports
for the France office weren't done right."
        Nick rubbed her sides up, and down, "Oh honey,"
        Molly stared into his blue eyes, "I'm nuts."
        Nick, shocked by the phrase, cleared his throat, "Come on,
lunch,"
        Molly sighed tiredly, "But…" 
        Nick stood up off the desk, picked up her pocketbook, and
handed it to her.  He lifted her head with his finger, and kissed her
nose, "Molly, lunch---break time.  Come on,"
        Nick took her by the hand, led her out of the office, down
the hall, and outside.  They stood on the stairs, and inhaled deeply;
for some fresh air.  Nick glanced over, and saw a slight smile
beaming from behind her stress-filled eyes.  Nick extended his arm to
her, she wrapped her hands around his elbow, and he placed his other
hand on top of hers.  They slowly walked down the stairs, strolled
over to her side of the caddy.  He unlocked the door, opened it, and
she stepped in.  Nick closed the door, and strolled over to his side.
Nick unlocked, opened, and climbed in.  He closed it, and started the
engine.  He carefully pulled away, and drove to Joe's café.
        
        Nick noticed a free space out front; along the curb.  He
carefully pulled up along the curb, parked, and turned the engine
off.  Nick opened his door, climbed out, and closed it.  He walked
around to her side, opened her door, and he extended his hand.  Molly
placed her hand into his, and stepped out.  Nick closed, and locked
her door, and they strolled onto the sidewalk.  Nick saw a table,
near the car; with an umbrella.  Nick escorted Molly to the table,
pulled her chair out, and she sat down.  He pulled his chair out, and
sat very close to her; they held hands.  A waiter appeared, Nick
ordered two hot teas, and he left quietly.
        Nick pulled her hand close, kissed her knuckles warmly, and
looked into her eyes, "Outside of work, what else is wrong?"
        Molly shyly looked away, "That's it?"
        Nick gently squeezed her hand for attention; she looked into
his eyes, "and possible baby."
        Molly covered her eyes with her hand; a few tears, "Oh, Nick."
        Nick sat as close as he could, wrapped his arm around her;
to comfort her, "Scared."
        "A little," Molly replied.
        "Me, too." Nick said, "Scared that you are, or not?"
        Molly turned to face him directly, "That I am.  Is that bad?"
        Nick held her hand tighter, "No.  This was not planned, or
discussed.  But, if we are, what do you want to do?"
        Nick handed her his hanky, she blew her nose, and wiped her
eyes, "Not sure." 
        "We'll handle this together." Nick said firmly.
        Molly smiled, laid her head upon his shoulder, "I know." 
        They sat up, and relaxed, "Okay.  If we are, we will do
what's necessary to be ready.  Is that all right with you?"
        Molly felt his passion for the possibility, she smiled
warmly, "Yes, thanks."
        Nick tilted his head, kissed Molly lightly upon her rosy
cheek, "I love you, unconditionally."
        Molly smiled, sighed calmly, as she was about to speak, the
waiter came by with their tea's, "Excuse me, here are your tea's. 
Are you ready to order?"
        "Yes, Molly." Nick requested.
        Molly hesitated a few, "Turkey sandwich."
        Nick thought for a few, liked the idea, "Two please.  Thanks."
        "Yes, sir." the waiter responded as he quietly left them
alone; to enjoy the atmosphere.
        They sat quietly, discussed her bad day, the case, and the
possible baby.  The waiter returned with their lunch then left.  They
enjoyed their light lunch, and a few laughs.  Nick wiped his hands
clean, glanced up and took a breath then saw Paul approaching.  Paul
stepped off the bus; spotted the caddy, and knew Nick was close by. 
He walked along the curb, and saw Nick with Molly; finishing lunch. 
Nick saw him; tapped Molly's forearm, and pointed him out.  Paul
slowly approached them, pulled a chair out, and sat down; with a grin.
        Nick felt something brewing in his mind; he folded his
hands, and glared at him.  Paul leaned back, crossed his legs; one
hand on his belt, and the other on the table, "Hey, guys."
        "Hi, Paul," Molly said.
        "Hey," Nick said, knowing there was more to follow.
        Paul uncrossed his legs; turned to face Nick, "I ran that
name."
        Nick held up his hand; to stop him, "Not during lunch."
        Paul noticed Molly's reaction, gave himself a slap upon his
forehead, "Right, sorry." he apologized, "Oh, hey, Lucien called, and
he wants to see you before you go home tonight."
        Nick reached into his coat pocket, pulled out his keys,
"Thanks.  Here are the keys, wait for me there, please."
        "No problem." Paul said slowly exiting the table.
        "Thank you." Nick politely responded.
        Nick glanced over to Molly's soft eyes, "This is our time;
no work.  You okay?" 
        Molly warmly stroked his cheek then his hand, "I am now."
        Nick shyly smiled, "Call me if you need, or want---anything."
        Molly paused a moment or two; "Even to hear you're voice,"
        Nick snickered slightly, "Yes."
        "Love you." Molly spoke softly.
        Nick tapped her hand; she looked directly into his eyes,
"Love you, too.  Let me take you back.  Remember, breathe, and drink
water then; one job at a time." he began to explain.  He touched her
nose with his index finger, "If you don't finish one; tomorrow. 
Stress is bad; you told me that."
        Molly lowered her head in slight shame with a grin, "You're
right."
        "Come on.  Sadly, I have to work, too." Nick uttered with a
slight sigh.
        "Okay." Molly agreed.
        Nick stood, pulled out Molly's chair, and he extended his
hand.  As she stood, Nick tossed some money onto the table.  Nick
pushed the chairs in, escorted Molly out from the tables, and over to
the car.  They saw Paul sitting in the back seat; reading the file. 
Nick opened the door; Molly stepped in, and closed it.  Nick walked
around to his side, opened his door, and climbed in.  He closed the
door, started the engine, and carefully pulled away from the curb. 
Nick slowly drove to the Gallery, downtown, and pulled up along the
sidewalk, and parked.  Paul turned completely around, looked out the
back window, to give Nick and Molly some privacy.  Nick leaned over,
kissed, and embraced her lovingly.  Molly opened her door, stepped
out, and closed it.  She gave him a quick glance then vanished up the
stairs and inside the building.
        Paul quickly moved from the back seat to the front; glanced
at Nick's face; his expression.  Paul tapped his upper arm, "Hey,
man, what's up?"
        Nick swallowed hard, "I can't, I promised."
        Paul pulled back, "Okay, but I'm here."
        Nick smiled, "Thanks."
        Paul turned to face the windshield, glanced into his
direction, "Where to?"
        "Crime scene to poke; tell me about Joel," Nick requested
softly.
        "Oh, yeah," Paul remembered.
        Paul reached back for the file he left on the seat, sat up
straight, and opened the file; to read it to him.
        Nick placed the gear in drive, observed all around him, and
carefully pulled away; into traffic.  He quickly drove through the
city, heading for the alley; where the baby was found.
        Paul cleared his throat to read clearly for Nick, "Joel is a
juvey kid; simple stuff, shoplifting, car-jacking, etc." 
        Nick hesitated, as he took a right turn, "And?"
        Paul read a little further down, a surprised look came
across his face, "He also works at the Latham House; part-time, and
he's a friend of Tara's."
        "Randy will be there later. "  Nick replied.
        Paul sighed, "Two for the price of one."
        "Did you run David?" Nick inquired.
        Paul chuckled sarcastically, "Yeah, we have six David's on
file."
        Nick gasped a little, "Six." 
        "Yeah," Paul whispered.
        "Great." Nick remarked, feeling the pressure building.
        Nick turned the corner, spotted the alley, "There's the
alley, hold on."
        Nick drove along a pot-hole street, and pulled up along the
sidewalk; along the curb.  Nick carefully parked, and turned the
engine off.  They opened the doors, climbed out, and closed them. 
Nick locked the doors, walked around, and stood on the sidewalk. 
They strolled down, and stood at the edge of the alley.  Yellow tape
stretched across there path, the alley was untouched, and the silence
was deafening.  They each pulled out a pair of latex gloves from
there pockets; but Nick froze.  Paul snapped his last glove, clasped
his fingers together; for a tighter fit then noticed Nick standing
there; not moving.  Paul nudged Nick's side, Nick looked at him, and
Paul noticed him sweaty; a little nervous.
        "You okay?" Paul asked.
        Nick shook his head, sighed, "Not sure."
        "Come on." Paul tugged him in.
        They carefully ducked under the tape; Nick took the left,
Paul to the right.  They carefully walked, and scanned the area. 
Examining every box, stone, and piece of trash near them.  Nick
noticed a box upside down; leaning up against the dumpster.  He
cautiously approached it, knelt down along side of it, and gently
pulled the box down.  Nick's eyes filled with shock; inside the box
were bloody towels; and an empty syringe lying on the bottom of the
box.  Nick grabbed hold of a corner, braced himself against the
dumpster, and stood up.  He scanned the immediate area; nothing, and
continued on.  They both carefully approached the fence at the end of
the alley.  Paul saw him holding a box, but mostly, a little shook up.
        Paul noticed Nick's emotional condition; a little uneasy. 
Paul looked at his hand then to the box, "What you got?"
        Nick jumped a little, "Bloody towels, and an empty needle."
        "Cool." Paul said calmly.
        Nick looked to him to calm down, "You?"
        Paul slapped his hands upon his thighs, "Nothing."
        Nick held the box tighter, "Let's go where Tara was found."
        Paul extended his hand to give Nick the lead, "Lead on."
        Nick just glared, scoffed at him, and strolled by him.  Nick
led the way into the building off to their right; where Tara was
found.  They carefully approached the doorway, scanned the room
before entering.  The room has been touched; everything moved and
cleaned up.  They slowly turned to face each other; let out a long
sigh of frustration.
        "Great." Nick said.
        "Damn it." Paul said following his remark.
        Nick looked down into the box, "Well, at least we have this.
Here, you hold it, and let's head for Forensics."
        "Let's go." Paul quickly replied.
        They slowly turned around, and left the building.  They
quickly approached the caddy, Nick pulled his gloves off, and frisked
his pocket; for his keys.  He unlocked the doors; they climbed in,
and closed the doors.  Nick tossed his gloves into the small barrel
behind Paul's seat.  Nick placed his key into the ignition, and
started the engine.  He carefully looked around, pulled away from the
curb, and drove quickly to the Forensics building.  Nick saw the
building, pulled over, and drove along the curb; parked.  Nick turned
the engine off; they opened and climbed out of the car.  They closed
and Nick locked the doors.  They walked up the stairs; with the box
in hand, into Kathy's lab.
        Nick and Paul quietly entered the lab, saw Kathy sitting on
a stool, by the slab; staring at the baby's body lying under a white
sheet.  They each stood along a side of her; Kathy noticed Nick's
shadow, and his faint scent of cologne.
        Nick lightly touched her weary shoulder, "You okay?"
        Kathy sniffed slightly, "No."  
        Nick turned to face her directly, "What is it?"
        "I hate cases with kids and babies." she expressed sadly.
        "I agree." Paul said joining in.
         Kathy sat up straight, "and it's getting cold."
        Nick grinned slightly, "Don't think so, look in the box."
        Kathy stood up, and looked into the box, "What you got?"
        Paul lowered the box more, "Bloody towels, and a needle."
        Kathy's eyes widen with joy, "Let's hope."
        Paul carefully handed her the box, he pulled his gloves off,
and tossed them into the trash, "Always." he whispered, and "Call us
if you find---anything." he added eagerly.  Kathy carried the box to
the other slab, "a.s.a.p."
        "Thanks." Nick whispered, a little lost.
        Kathy went off to work on the box, while Nick and Paul left
the lab.  Nick hesitated on the top step, stared off into the
distance, and Paul went down one step, turned and saw him frozen like
a statue.
        "Hey, you okay?" Paul asked.
        Nick hesitated then looked at his eyes, "Raven later?"
        Paul smiled, "Always.  Come on."
        They met up and walked down the stairs; together, and walked
over to the car.  Nick unlocked the doors; they opened the doors, and
climbed.  They closed the doors; Nick started the engine, and
carefully pulled away from the curb.  He quickly drove to the Latham
House; a few miles away.
        
        Nick drove along the curbside, and parked.  He turned the
engine off, they opened, and climbed out; closed the doors.  Nick
locked the doors, and they walked along the sidewalk.  They climbed
the stairs then inside of the building, and saw a desk to the far
right.  They strolled across the room, approached the desk, and
flashed their badges.
        "Hi, may we speak to Ms. Staples?" Paul requested.
        Mary grinned, "I'll announce you."
        "Thank you." Nick replied politely.
        Nick and Paul turned about, and walked over into the lobby,
and waited patiently.  A few moments had passed; Lisa quietly
approached them, stood by Paul's side, but glanced at Nick.
        "Hello.  Randy is waiting for you; in the gym; down at the
end, on your left." she explained the directions to them.
        "Do you also have a Joel Burton?" Paul inquired.
        "Yes, he's not here yet.  I'll send him down when he does."
Lisa said quickly.
        "Thank you." Nick replied.
        Paul led the way down the hall with Nick close to his heals.
They came to a wooden door, slowly opened, and entered the room.  The
door slowly closed automatically behind them.  They took a few steps
in, and scanned the huge gym.  They saw bleaches along two walls, a
stage at the other end, and a basketball net to their right.
        Suddenly, they heard a few piano notes echoing in the
distance.  They walked a little further in, they saw Randy sitting at
a Grand Piano; Steinway. Paul stood and listened, but Nick's eyes lit
up.  He slowly walked over to Randy, and stood by his side.  Randy
saw his shadow cast upon the piano.  Randy suddenly stopped playing,
turned, and faced him.
        "Who are you?" Randy asked, stunned.
        Nick smiled, sat down upon the piano bench, "Detective
Knight.  Call me Nick."
        Randy extended his, shook hands with Nick, "Randy Abbott."
        Nick lightly touched the keys, "You're good."
        "I guess." Randy said shyly, "Do you play?"
        "Yeah," Nick said happily.
        Randy, a little hesitant, "Can you show me?"
        Nick, unaware of Paul's presence behind him, cracked his
fingers, and gently danced upon the keys.  Nick played a few scales
of an old song, 'Pipe Dream.'  Paul stood in shock of Nick's gift. 
Randy warmly smiled then just listened, and watched.  Nick suddenly
stopped when he saw Paul's reflection in the piano.
        Randy gasped by what he head, "That was great.  Where did
you learn to play?"
        Nick cleared his throat; refocused on the case, "I took
lessons when I was kid."
        "I'm impressed." Randy said to honor his talent.
        Nick turned slightly to face him, "Thanks."
        Nick straddled the bench, folded his hands in front of him,
"I need to talk to you about Tara Wilmont."
        "Is she okay?" Randy asked; a little worried.
        Nick sensed he didn't know, "Sadly, she was found yesterday
morning."
        Randy's eyes became teary-eyed, "Oh my God." he whimpered,
"and the baby?"
        Nick paused a moment, "They're both gone." he answered,
"Yes, I'm sorry."
        "Oh, man." Randy whispered.
        Nick gave Randy a few to compose himself, "Can you tell me
anything about the father?" he asked Randy, "Hey, Paul, join in."
        Paul moved a few feet, by Nick's side, and leaned upon the
piano.  Randy sniffed his tears back, "whose Paul?"
        Nick tilted his head towards Paul, "Detective Coletti, my
partner, and friend."
        "Hi." Randy said to greet him.
        "Hey." Paul returned the greeting.
        "Go ahead." Nick said to comfort him.
        "Tara and I were close friends, until Davy showed up.  He
used her as a play toy; he tried to keep us apart.  When she found
out she was pregnant, she was so happy.  When Davy found out; he was
so angry; he screamed and yelled.  He took her away, and placed her
here.  I did the best I could.  About a few days ago; before her due
date, he came for her; said he changed his mind; he was wrong.  That
was the last time I saw her, until you told me they died.  Poor
Tara." Randy filled them in, sobbing at the end.
        Nick placed a hand upon his forearm; to comfort him.  Nick
gave him a few then squeezed his arm, "Thank you.  We know he's a
cop, do you know where he is; where he patrols?"
        Randy managed to compose himself, "Hold on.  Last time I saw
him; was with Tara, and that was near the Raven.  I can't remember
the street name."
        Nick tapped his arm, "That's okay.  I know the club."
        Suddenly, footsteps echoed in the room, they became closer,
and closer.  The person stood by Paul, behind Nick.  Nick stood up to
greet this person.
        "Excuse me, I'm Joel Burton.  Lisa sent me." Joel said. 
        Nick extended his hand to him; they shook hands, "Hey Joel."
he said then asked, "Do you remember Tara Wilmont?" 
        Joel tensed up, Paul noticed, so did Nick, "Yeah, Lisa told
me, that bites.  Did you get Davy?"
        "Not yet.  Know his last name?" Paul asked.
        Joel turned and faced Paul, stared into his eyes, "David
Vasal."
        Nick grinned, "Vasal, great job guys.  Thanks for the help."
        "Yeah, we'll be in touch." Paul added.
        Nick politely shook their hands, looked to Paul, "Let's roll."
        Nick and Paul quickly left the room, and left Joel and
Randy; alone.  They walked down the hall, through the lobby, and
outside.  They ran down the stairs, over to Nick's car, and Nick
unlocked the doors.  They opened and climbed in; closed the doors. 
Before Nick could start the engine, his cell phone rang.  He pulled
his jacket around, reached into his pocket, and pulled out his phone.
        Nick pushed the button, "Knight,"
        "It's Kathy.  The bloody towels had Tara's and the baby's
blood.  The needle has David Vasal's fingerprints.  He's a cop."
Kathy informed them.
        "We know thanks." Nick said quickly.
        "Any name yet?" Kathy inquired.
        "Later, please.  Tonight." Nick requested.
        "All right, " Kathy said to calm him.
        Nick hung up the phone, and returned it to his pocket.  Nick
placed his hands upon the steering wheel, squeezed it angrily, his
knuckles turned bloody red, and his breathing was heavier.
        Paul noticed the sudden change, "Hey, man, you're all tensed
up."
        Nick exhaled hard, "Sorry.  Okay, that was Kathy; the bloody
towels, Tara and the baby.  The needle has David's prints."
        Paul exhaled in relief, "Solid proof.  He cheated, got a
minor pregnant, and killed them both."
        Nick slowly eased upon the wheel, "Yes---he did." he said,
flustered, "What else?"
        Paul tapped his upper arm, "Nothing."
        Nick glanced over to Paul, "I need to see LaCroix and a beer."
        "Me, too; I'll catch the bus from there." Paul said in full
agreement.
        Nick grinned, "Thanks.  I also promised Molly I would be
home early."
        Paul crinkled an eyebrow, "She okay."
        Nick paused, "Yeah; I was gone a while, so she's a little
scared still."
        "I hear you." Paul expressed.
        Nick smiled, "Let's roll."
        Paul turned to face the window, and watched the scenery. 
Nick pulled up along the curb, and parked.  He turned the engine off;
they opened their door, and climbed out.  They closed their door,
Nick locked them, and Paul led the way into the club.  The door
closed automatically behind them.  
        Blue lighting filled the club, soft piano music playing in
the background, and people dancing on the floor; also vampires.  Nick
noticed LaCroix sitting at the bar, with a drink; not moving.  They
slowly walked down the stairs, over to the bar, and Scott served them
each a beer.  Nick stood by LaCroix's side.  Paul slapped Nick on his
back, bid him farewell.
        LaCroix heard Nick's voice, turned to greet him, but saw
fear in his eyes, "Nicholas."
        "LaCroix," Nick said in return.
        LaCroix, very concerned, "What's wrong?"
        Nick's eyes, slightly watery, "I need to talk to you,
someplace very private."
        LaCroix sensed his fear, "Oh, dear; let's go upstairs. 
Scott, take over."
        "Sure thing," Scott said.
        LaCroix wrapped his arm around Nick's upper back, escorted
him around the bar, and into the back room.  LaCroix led the way up
the few stairs, and opened the door.  Nick passed by him, and stood
still by the bedpost.  LaCroix noticed Jamie sitting on the couch;
reading a book. 
        LaCroix quietly walked up to her, they kissed warmly, and he
whispered into her ear, "Jamie, I need some time alone with Nicholas.
Can you help Scott for a while?"
        "Sure," Jamie said smiling.
        "Thank you," LaCroix replied.
        LaCroix extended his hand to Jamie, and she slowly rose from
the couch.  Jamie rose up, and walked around the couch, hugged
LaCroix, "Anytime." 
        LaCroix jumped slightly with a slight laugh.
        Jamie walked by Nick, "Hi, Nicholas,"
        "Hi, Jamie, thank you," Nick mumbled sadly.
        Jamie leaned over, placed a gentle kiss upon his cheek.
        She then slowly left the room; leaving them alone.
        LaCroix waved Nick to the couch, "All right, Nicholas,
what's wrong?"
        Nick strolled over, and they sat down together on the couch.
They faced each other, but Nick seemed distant, "I can't believe---at
my age, I need to talk about this---with you."
        LaCroix fearing the worst, "What did you do?" 
        Nick nervously rubbed his face, looked away, "Molly's not
sure, we'll know in the morning."
        LaCroix placed his hand upon Nick's forearm to calm him
down, "Know what?"
        Nick looked into his father's; best friend's eyes, with a
tear, "She thinks she's pregnant."
        Shock and surprise filled every pore of LaCroix's body,
"What?  Nicholas."
        Nick quietly wiped the tear away, "Please, I'm scared enough."
        LaCroix let out a sigh, "Sorry.  Talk to me."
        Nick leaned sideways into the couch.  LaCroix felt the
tension and stress building up in Nick's body.  LaCroix reached over
rubbed his upper arm to comfort him.
        "Molly told me this morning, she's a few day's late." Nick
explained.
        "And?" LaCroix queried.
        Nick sighed slightly, "I told her, that I love her."
        LaCroix nervously cleared his throat, "Let's go through the--
-usual---steps.  Are you two using protection?"
        Nick grinned slightly, "Yes."
        "All right, to your knowledge, did it fail at anytime?"
        Nick sighed, "No." 
        LaCroix felt relieved that his fatherly duty was done,
"Could it be stress?"
        "Maybe," Nick said.
        LaCroix leaned further into the couch, giving Nick time to
relax.  LaCroix decided to see where his thought's were; changed the
subject a touch, "All right, if she is, what then?"
        Nick faced LaCroix directly, "I'll be a---Daddy---sooner
then we planned, and marry sooner."
        LaCroix stroked his bottom lip, "If she's not?"
        Nick sighed, "Then nothing changes, except to be more
careful."
        LaCroix sensed his nerves peaking slightly, "Why are you so
scared?"
        Nick slouched into the couch, "At my age, I'm not ready yet."
        LaCroix felt his father side erupting again, "I see.  If she
is, you need to be ready, and support her."
        "I know." Nick agreed.
        "Does anyone else know?" LaCroix questioned.
        Nick quickly faced him, "No, so please."
        LaCroix placed his hand upon his shoulder to calm him down,
"Not to worry."
        "Not even Jamie, at least until we know for sure." Nick
requested strongly. 
        LaCroix laughed slightly, "I'll try,"
        Nick and LaCroix exhaled in relief, and relaxed slightly,
"How's Molly handling it?"
        "Scared; and upset," Nick briefed him.
        LaCroix glared at him, "Why upset?"
        Nick tilted his head backwards upon the back of the couch,
"She was afraid that I would leave her."
        LaCroix sat up erected, "And you said?"
        Nick rolled his head sideways to face him, "No way.  We will
do this; together."
        LaCroix reached over, patted Nick upon his upper arm,
smiled; "Good, I'm proud of you.  I raised you well."
        Nick chuckled a little, "Thanks."
        They relaxed and ended the very personal; emotional subject.
Nick slapped LaCroix upon his thigh, warmly smiled, "I need to go
home.  I said I would be home early, and we would do the test
together." 
        LaCroix, jokingly, placed his hand over his heart, grinned,
"Very honorable."
        Nick laughed slightly, "She will not be alone." 
        LaCroix tapped Nick's shoulder, "Neither are you."
        "Thanks." Nick whispered; chuckled in disbelief, "I needed
this."
        LaCroix warmly pointed his finger at Nick, "You will tell me
the results."
        Nick turned, glanced at his expression; in his face,
"Always; thanks."
        LaCroix leaned up, and sat along the edge of the couch;
slapped his thigh.   Nick just chuckled; feeling relaxed.
        LaCroix and Nick stood up, exchanged a loving hug, "I'm
always here for you, Nicholas."
        Nick smiled warmly, "I'm glad.  Same here---for you."
        LaCroix placed his arms in front; folded, "I'm pleased. 
Now, go home, and be with Molly."
        "Night, LaCroix," Nick said, grinning at his father's eyes.
        "Night, Nicholas, have faith." LaCroix said, burning a
thought into his mind.
        Nick gave LaCroix a warm squeeze upon his upper arm, "I will."
        Nick strolled by LaCroix, exited the room, walked down the
steps, and walked into the hall.  He noticed Paul had left the bar,
so he slowly walked up the stairs then outside.  Nick strolled over
to his car, unlocked the door, opened it, and climbed in.  Nick
closed his door, started the engine, and slowly drove home to Molly. 
Nick entered through the alleyway, drove into his space; by the
elevator.  Nick turned the engine off, opened the door, and climbed
out.  He closed the door, locked it, and strolled into the elevator. 
Nick pushed the button, rode up to his loft, and the doors opened
into his loft.
        The doors closed automatically behind him, he strolled
across the floor, and saw Molly sleeping on the couch.  He grinned
warmly then noticed a small white box lying on the coffee table. 
Nick quietly walked over, picked up the box, and read it; pregnancy
test.  He stared at the box for a moment then looked at Molly, and he
placed the box down on the table.  Nick sat on the edge of the table,
stroked her soft cheek, and she moved slightly.  Molly gradually woke
up, saw his sparkling blue eyes, and reached up to hold him.  Nick
returned the embrace; she pulled away, and sat up on the couch.
        Nick took notice in her reaction to his touch, he placed his
hands upon his lap, and "You okay?"
        Molly wrapped her arms around his shoulders, "Just nerves."
        Nick let out a slight sigh, "Its okay, I'm scared, too."
        Molly glanced at him, "Really?"
        Nick quietly cleared his throat, rubbed his hands together,
"We're both in shock, nervous, and not ready.  But if we are, we will
get ready---together."
        Molly sniffed a little, calmed down, "You are so awesome."
        Nick straightened proudly, "Thank you." he replied, "How
about we turn in, and get a good night sleep.  I'll tell you a story."
        Molly smiled widely, "Happy ending,"
        Nick extended his hand to her, "Always,"
        Nick stood up, and Molly followed his lead then kissed his
warm cheek.  They slowly moved away from the couch, around the chair,
and made their way to the staircase.  They slowly, hand-in-hand,
walked up the stairs, down the small hall, and into the bedroom. 
Nick strolled into the bathroom while Molly prepared the bed.  Nick
exited wearing his pajama pants then Molly took her turn in the
bathroom.  Nick snuggled under the blankets.  Molly exited wearing a
night shirt, and joined Nick under the blankets.  They snuggled very
close to each other, and slowly drifted off to sleep.
        
        The night hours slowly passed into daylight.  The sun shined
through the blinds, and rolled up the blankets.  A soft pale-
yellowish light shined into Nick's eyes.  He struggled to open his
eyes, closed them from the brightness, and wiped the sleep from them.
Nick glanced over, and saw Molly sleeping; comfortably.  He grinned
warmly, gently kissed her nose, and she slowly opened her eyes. 
Molly grinned from the view of his boyish smile, and sparkling blue
eyes.
        Molly licked her dry lips, "Hi." 
        Nick gently sat up slightly, moved her hair away, "Morning. 
How do you feel?"
        Molly inhaled then exhaled, "Okay, I think."
        "What's on your agenda?" Nick inquired.
        Molly sat up along the edge of the bed, looked back at Nick,
slightly nervous, "Let me do the test first, and we'll see."
        Nick saw the fear in her eyes; heard it in her voice, "I
would do it for you, but it won't work."
        Molly laughed slightly, "True.  Pass it over, please."
        Nick reached over to his nightstand, and picked up the box,
"If you like, I'll read the results."
        Molly paused, felt his need to share, "Deal."
        Nick crawled over the bed, and sat by her side, "Here you
go.  Take your time, and I'll be right here."
        Molly smiled, took the box, "Thanks."
        Nick patiently sat on the bed while Molly walked into the
bathroom, and closed the door.  A few moments, a flush, and she
opened the door.  She hesitated a second, walked over to Nick, and
sat by his side.
        Molly nervously took his hand, swallowed hard, "In five
minutes, we'll know."
        Nick gazed into her eyes, "Remember everything we talked
about."
        "I do." Molly smiled.
        Nick snickered slightly, "I always will."
        Molly, all jittery, let go of his hand, "Go read it, please;
it's on the sink." 
        Nick rubbed her hands to calm her down, "Stay here, be right
back."
        Nick stroked her cheek to calm her nerves; she smiled in
return.  Nick slowly stood up, walked into the bathroom, and closed
the door.  A few moments, a flush, and he washed his hands.  He saw
the test stick to his right.  Nick inhaled, slowly picked it up, and
stared at it.  He slowly exhaled, turned, and opened the door.  Nick
strolled out of the bathroom, and sat down beside Molly.
        Molly slowly looked into his eyes, "Well?"
        Nick sighed; "We're not pregnant."
        "Thank you." Molly said relieved.
        "How do you feel, and be completely honest." Nick requested.
        Molly paused a few, "A little sad, but relieved."
        Nick smiled, exhaled, "Same here."
        Nick and Molly embraced each other that there little fright
has ended.
        Molly slowly pulled away, rubbed her tired face, "You're not
disappointed?"
        Nick looked at her then away, and looked again, "It would
have been nice, but we're not ready yet.  Call me old-fashioned, but
I want us married first, enjoy couple time then add the children."
        A shock look appeared on Molly's face, "Children; how many?"
        Nick tried to hide his laugh, "Six or so."
        Molly coughed slightly, "After you."
        Nick let out his laugh, "I can't."
        Molly laughed back, "Try two, or three."
        Nick gave her a quick kiss upon her lips, "Deal."
        "I love you." Molly said, smiling.
        "Love you, too." Nick said, hesitated, "Want to share a
shower?"
        "Always," Molly answered willingly.
        Nick stood, extended his elbow to Molly.  She slowly stood
up, took hold, and they strolled into the bathroom; closed the door. 
Molly slid the door open, started the water, and returned to Nick. 
She grinned with a devilish look in her eyes, reached over, and took
hold of his string on his pajama pants.  She pulled it, and his pants
fell to the floor; around his ankles.  Nick looked down, saw his
naked body then looked up at Molly.  He saw the smile on her face,
and became a little nervous.
        Nick smiled back, cleared his throat, "What?"
        "Very nice," Molly said staring at his mid-section.
        "Thank you," Nick shyly replied, "That's a new move."
        Molly stepped closer to his body, "Yeah; Jamie said it was
fun."
        Nick suddenly thought of LaCroix, "Don't tell me." 
        Molly took him by the arm, "Guess.  Come on,"
        They climbed in, Nick closed the door, and they enjoyed a
quick shower.  Nick leaned over, turned the water off, and slid the
door open.  Nick helped Molly climb out then him, and they dried each
other off.  They strolled into the bedroom, got dressed for work, and
strolled out of the bedroom; into the hallway.  They walked down the
stairs, and entered the kitchen area.
        Molly began to prepare a fast breakfast while Nick started
up the coffee maker.  The coffee aroma began to fill the air; and
their senses when a knock echoed from the door.  The door slid open,
and Paul strutted in; the door closed automatically behind him.  Paul
walked across the floor; into the kitchen, leaned upon the counter,
and watched them.  Nick strolled by Molly, gently squeezed her side,
and Paul cleared his throat to draw Nick's attention.  Nick jumped
slightly, glanced over, and saw Paul standing their, with a dirty
grin.  Nick moved over to him, and leaned on the counter with his
elbow.  Molly heard him, turned slightly looked at Nick; he nodded
his head to tell her, cook extra for Paul.
        "Hello." Paul mumbled with a little laugh.
        Molly turned slightly, glanced at Paul's face, "Hey Paul. 
Want some breakfast?"
        Paul stood erect, grinned, "Sure, if it's no trouble."
        Molly scoffed lightly, "No, its okay." 
        Paul bowed quietly, "Thanks."
        Paul also noticed Nick hasn't said a word since he's been
there.  He lightly hit Nick's forearm, stared into his face, "Okay,
why are we so quiet?  I can hear a pin fall on a rug."
        Nick let out a long sigh, "Sorry."
        Paul hesitated, let it pass by; untouched.  Paul cleared his
throat; they followed Molly into the table, sat down, and enjoyed a
warm breakfast.  They talked, and ate for about thirty minutes or so,
when Paul tapped his mug with his fork, "Nick, where to?" he
questioned.
        Nick wiped his face, held Molly's hand, "Station for round
up.  I need to see where we are on this case, and visit this Davy." 
        Paul noticed Nick's grip to Molly, "Cool."
        "I'll be right down." Nick hinted for a private moment.
        Paul stood up, extended his hand, "Keys, please."
        "Table," Nick answered quickly.
        Paul saluted them both, "Later.  Bye, Molly."
        "Bye." Nick uttered in a whisper.
        Paul stepped around the table, walked over to the table; by
the couch, and picked up Nick's keys.  Paul quickly exited the loft
while Nick and Molly watched him silently.
        Nick and Molly watched the door close then turned their
attention to each other, "Molly, he's right.  We're too quiet.  Is
there something else that we need to talk about?"
        Molly quietly looked down at Nick's hand gently stroked his
knuckles; sighed, "Not sure."
        Nick paused a moment, "That we're disappointed, and glad."
        Molly faced Nick's eyes with slight fear in her eyes,
"Maybe." she said, "and it's confusing."
        Nick raised her hand, kissed it warmly, "How about a movie,
pizza, and we talk about it?"
        Molly lovingly rubbed his hand, "Done,"
        "Don't work too hard." Nick expressed.
        Molly smiled, nodded, "I won't need a lift.  I have my car."
she said.  Nick leaned over, kissed her soft lips, "Okay, love you."
        Molly laid her head upon his shoulder, "Love you, too."
        Nick helped Molly clear off the table, carrying the dishes
into the kitchen, and loaded up the dishwasher.  Nick leaned over
affectionately kissed her, walked over to the table; by the couch,
and picked up his things.  He carefully removed his gun from the
small drawer, checked the safety switch, and placed it into his belt;
in the back.  Nick quickly left the loft, rode down in the elevator,
and outside to his car.  He opened his door, climbed in, and looked
to Paul for the keys.  Paul glared at him, and refused to hand them
over.
        Nick closed the door, feared what Paul was thinking, "All
right, enough.  What's wrong?"
        "Nothing," Nick mumbled.
        Paul leaned towards him, very stern, "Look, man, you have
been in a daze for a day.  Is it this case?"
        Nick felt his wall weakening, "No." 
        Paul shook the keys for him to hear, "Spill it, its
affecting the job."
        Nick felt his defense fading, his friend was very worried,
"Molly thought she was pregnant."
        Paul gasped, leaned back, "Whoa---and?"
        Nick sighed, "She's not."
        Paul sighed quietly, but noticed Nick's face was non-
expressive; numb, "Is that good or bad?"
        Nick arched his back into the seat, "Don't know."
        Nick started the car then backed up, and headed for the
station. 
        
         Nick drove into the empty space along the left side of the
building, and turned the engine off.
        Paul grabbed his arm, and "Do you want to be a father?"
        Nick, stunned by the question, looked oddly into his eyes,
"Yes and no." he replied, "Yes, because I love Molly, and I want a
family.  No, because I don't feel ready yet, and it scares me; a
little,"
        Paul chuckled, rubbed his face, "Oh, hell, that's normal."
        Nick swallowed hard, "It is?"
        Paul felt true nervousness on fatherhood, "You see all the
bad, the hate, and the insecurities; that's scary.  Then, you see
Molly, the love, the trust, and the future family; scares the hell
out of you."
        Nick placed his keys into his pocket, glanced into Paul's
eyes, "What do you do?"
        Paul placed a hand upon Nick's shoulder, "Love, faith, and
friends, but mostly, family; like Lucien, Jamie, and Molly.  Hey, to
scare you even more; you got me; and the gang."
        Nick's face filled with terror; and a slight grin, "Now, I'm
terrified."
        Paul gave Nick a little shove towards the window, "Funny."
he mumbled, "Come on, check in time; time to put slime boy away."
        Nick scoffed at him, "Thanks."
        "Anytime; I'll send you my bill." Paul said, jokingly.
        Nick coughed slightly, "Checks in the mail."
        Paul grabbed the left side of his head, "OUCH.   That's cold."
        Nick laughed slightly, and tilted his head sideways to show
Paul; get out of the car.  Nick and Paul opened their doors, slowly
climbed out, and closed them.  Nick locked the doors; they strolled
along the sidewalk, and up the stairs; inside.  As they entered
through the doorway, they noticed Allen standing there with Michael
and Rose off to his right side.  
        Nick and Paul glanced at each other then slowly approached
them, "Hey, guys."
        Allen glanced, grinned, "My office, now."
        Nick and Paul quickly followed him with Michael and Rose
close behind.  The fear slowly