Chapter 5: Meet The Willows' a.k.a. Like Mother, Like Daughter

As the conference had come to an end, both women were happy to head home…together.

Sara had been watching an in-flight movie, but had felt the blonde's eyes on her for the last thirty minutes.

"What?" Sara said. "Something wrong?" -concern tangible in her voice.

Catherine, staring at the brunette and not having said a word, gathered all her courage and finally asked Sara the question that had been on her mind for a while.

"I was thinking, since Grissom gave us a day off…you wanna spend it with Lindsey and me?"

Grabbing the strawberry blonde's hand and entwining their fingers Sara answered. "I don't know. Do you think it's a good idea…After these few days here…Isn't it too soon for us to…" Sara couldn't quite put her thoughts into words.

She didn't want to impose on Catherine and Lindsey's relationship. However, she did want to pursue what she had started with the older woman.

"She won't mind, she likes you. Besides we don't have to tell her about this, about us, right away. Let's just see how things go." Catherine pulled Sara's hand to her lips and placed a soft kiss on it.

Sara leaned into the touch with her whole body, and placed her other hand on Catherine's cheek. "Then I would love to"

Hearing that answer Catherine's eyes started to sparkle.

Although there was no turbulence, so no need for Catherine to hold on to Sara, they held hands the rest of the flight back to Las Vegas.

After they had collected their baggage they headed off towards the parking lot of McCarran International Airport.

"Where's you car?" Catherine asked

"At home. I took a cab here."

"Well then, why don't I give you a ride home. You'll need all the sleep you can get if you want to spend tomorrow with Lindsey and me."

Catherine didn't give Sara time to answer, because she pulled the brunette into the direction of her car.

Placing their baggage in the back Sara was caught off guard as she felt two arms snake around her waist. Turning round she was immediately engulfed in a sea of light kisses from the strawberry blonde.

Arriving at Sara's apartment they made arrangements for the day to come. Catherine would pick up Sara and together with Lindsey they would plan a whole day filled with fun.

Before Catherine drove off, Sara knocked on the window at the driver's side. As Catherine let her window down she heard Sara say "I've forgot something."

"And that would be?" Catherine smiled, seeing the shy look on the brunette's face.

Leaning in Sara merely said "This" before closing the gap between their lips, giving the other woman a smoldering kiss.

"Sleep well," she said before she picked up her bags and walked towards her apartment.

"You think I'll be able to sleep after you pulled that trick on me?" Catherine called after her before driving off.

***

The next day the three of them decided to spend their day in the park. Lindsey dragged them through the playground. They started at the swings then the slides followed.

Throughout the day both of the women kept sneaking glances at each other, smiles constantly plastered on their faces. The three of them were having a wonderful time together.

After eating some sandwiches Catherine had brought along, Lindsey decided it was time for some soccer.

"Come on Sara," Lindsey stood up and kicked the ball away running after it.

Sara also rose from the bench they had been sitting on. Holding out her hand towards the strawberry blonde she said "Let's show your daughter how to play soccer."

"Oh no, I'm staying right here. Soccer's not my cup of tea…you two have fun."

***

After about half an hour of playing soccer with Lindsey, showing her all sorts of tricks, Sara walked over to the bench where Catherine was seated.

Catherine watched her daughter and her lover playing soccer. Lover?...yes definitely…I love her with whole my heart, she thought. Seeing Sara sneaking glances at her she added mentally and the way she looks at me I just know she loves me too. A completely content feeling settled in her whole body.

The brunette strolled over to the bench, plopping down beside Catherine. Seeing the look on the blonde's face Sara had a hard time not to touch her…not to kiss her. But since Lindsey was just a few feet away she decided to fight her urge to kiss her.

Changing her view from the strawberry blonde to the mini version of the woman sitting next to her Sara spoke up. "I really like this. You, Lindsey, me…spending time together. I really feel like part of…" she cast down her eyes before continuing, "For the first time in my life I really feel part of a family."

Catherine was touched by the words of the younger woman and -feeling tears forming in her eyes- grabbed her hand, squeezing it a little before saying "You are, and you always will be."

Looking over at her daughter who now was playing on a climbing frame Catherine continued, "We're telling Lindsey about us."

Sara looked at Catherine incredulous. "Are you sure? I mean ….I don't…"

"Yes, I am sure," the older woman interrupted. "I love you, and I can see how much you love Lindsey…she has the right to know. And since I'm planning on spending a lot of time with you she'll have to get used to us being a couple."

"I love you too," Sara said, squeezing Catherine's hand again emphasizing her words.

"Mom!" Lindsey yelled as she ran over to the bench.

Releasing Sara's hand and turning her gaze towards her daughter Catherine smiled. "Yes honey?"

"Can we get some ice cream? Please?" she pleaded as she climbed onto the bench, placing herself in between the two women.

"Well, baby, I've got to tell you something first," Catherine said her focus shifting from her little girl to Sara and back.

Lindsey -who had noticed the way Sara and Catherine had been staring at each other the whole day and how they how they had been dancing around each other the whole day, casually touching each other, staring at each other- looked at her mother, grabbed her hand and just held it, her little fingers wrapped around her mother's.

Catherine wanted to start talking again, but before she could Lindsey turned around.

Now facing Sara she grabbed her hand as well. Tugging at both of the women's hands she placed Sara's on Catherine's covering their hands with her little one.

Catherine looked astonished from their hands to Lindsey and to Sara

"I'm not blind, you know," Lindsey stated.

"You're one smart kid," Sara smiled as she looked from their hands up to Catherine.
She found a look of bliss in those blue pools staring back at her.

"Well, you guys were so obvious…all gooey eyes and stuff," Lindsey quipped.

"So you're ok with it?" Sara asked.

"You're being silly…of course it's ok. Mom likes you a lot…really a lot. She's been smiling the whole day, and every time you would look at her that smile would grow," Lindsey said.

Both Catherine and Sara were surprised by the wise answer they got from Lindsey.

"Besides, you're really good at soccer, so it's good to have you around," the little blonde added, earning her laughter from the two women.

"Now," she started, switching the topic back to her own question. "Can we get what I want?"

"And what would that be?" Sara looked at Catherine showing her one of her gap-toothed smiles.

Sending both of the grown ups a look that clearly stated 'duh' she jumped off the bench pulling at the hands she still held onto, and said "Ice cream."

"Well, guess I can't say no to that," Sara stated.

As the three of them headed towards the car the strawberry blonde spoke up. "You just can't say no to Willows women," Catherine said, a bright smile on her face.

***


Chapter 6: Sara And The World Of Tomorrow

It had been two weeks now. Two weeks filled with friendly outings, romantic dinners, or just time spent with each other and also with Lindsey. However, it all had taken place in secret -that is, unknown to their colleagues. Both of them had agreed during the first few days they spent together that they were going to keep this for themselves at first, to see how this would work out.

But over the last few days Sara noticed there was something on Catherine's mind.

It was hours before their shift would start and Catherine and Sara were lying on the couch, the blonde wrapped in the brunette's protective embrace.

Sensing the slight discomfort of her lover Sara decided it was time to ask her about what bothered her.

"What's the matter?" Sara asked, placing kisses on top of the older woman's head that rested on her shoulder.

Catherine was silent for a few seconds, let out a sigh and spoke, "I hate to sneak around like this."

Catherine picked up Sara's hand, entwining their fingers. She didn't dare to look into the dark eyes of the brunette. From the start Sara had made it pretty clear she wasn't ready to go public, and Catherine respected that, but these days it was becoming harder and harder for her.

Feeling the tentative squeeze from the younger woman Catherine decided to continue

"I want everybody to know you're mine, that we belong together."

Sara sighed, and let go of Catherine's hand. Pulling the blonde's face into her direction, forcing her to look up.

"Cath, I thought we talked about this." doubt was starting to fill Sara's mind Am I doing the right thing…why can't I just come out…they're friends, they'll understand…

Sara let go of Catherine's face, and tried to get off the couch. "I'm sorry. I just can't. Not yet."

Catherine, who didn't want to give up her comfortable spot -lying sprawled over the brunette- grabbed a firm hold of Sara.

She knew Sara had her insecurities, and decided she was worth the wait. "Please don't. Just stay. It's ok, we don't have to…it can wait…I can wait."

Trying to convey that she really meant what she just said, Catherine pulled Sara into her engaging their lips in a searing kiss.

As soon as those soft lips connected with hers Sara felt at ease again. Taking over control of the kiss she nibbled on the blonde's lower lip, earning her a low growl. Slipping in her tongue, another moan escaped the older woman's throat.

After pulling away from each other, both completely out of breath, it was Catherine who first regained her ability to speak

"Damn Sidle, if you keep kissing me like this you'd better not make me wait that long. I want to show off with you." -a big smile on the blonde's face showing she was kidding, and hoping they were ok.

The kiss she got from Sara answered that…they were definitely ok.

***

Later that night the entire nightshift team was seated in the break room waiting for cases to be handed out.

"Busy night guys," Grissom said as he entered and started handing out files. "Nick, Greg. DB found near a garbage dump. Vega's already at the scene." While Nick and Greg walked off Sara couldn't let this opportunity to tease them pass.

"Smell ya later!" she quipped just as the two men entered the hall. And when two heads -with grumpy looks plastered all over- popped back inside, laughter filled the break room.

As the laughter died down, and Greg and Nick left, Grissom continued, "Warrick, B&E at a pawnshop."

"On it," the tall dark man said as he headed out. "See ya."

Turning to the brunette, the next case was to be handed out. "Sara, suspicious circs at a dorm room, Brass's on his way over already."

"Ok," she said as she took the folder Grissom offered her. Sharing one last look with the blonde Sara also exited the break room, leaving Catherine and Grissom behind.

"And we," Grissom said as he opened the folder, "have two DB's in the desert."

Catherine's eyes were still focussed on the retreating form of the brunette she felt so much for. Grissom, who was expecting some sort of reply, shook her from her reverie.

"Catherine?"

"Huh?"

"You coming?" Grissom was already at the door, a smug smile on his face as he noticed Catherine's absent state of mind.

"Yeah, I'll be right there," she answered as she walked into the direction of the locker room.

While she was getting all the things she needed out of her locker, she heard a door open and close behind her. Just as she was about to turn around to see who entered, two arms snaked around her waist and soft lips connected with her neck.

Wanting to turn around and face her lover Catherine found herself being held back. She could feel Sara push her strong body into her own, and before she could stop herself, a low moan escaped her throat.

And with that the brunette was gone already, leaving a very stunned Catherine behind. Much time to think about what just happened she had not, because Grissom paged her with a message asking what was taking her so long.

***

Fifteen minutes later Sara arrived at the dorm, and saw Brass questioning someone. She stepped out of the Tahoe, grabbed her kit out of the back, and walked over to the detective.

"It's too late….Now I'll never have the chance…"

Sara heard sobbing, and as she reached Brass and placed herself next to him she noticed the person Brass had been talking with.

A young woman, seemingly in a shock as she kept repeating those words the brunette had just heard while she walked over.

Brass gave a quick nod to Sara, acknowledging she was there, before trying again to make the woman answer his questions.

"Ma'am we need to know what exactly happened," his stern voice spoke.

Sara noticed the distressed look on the woman's face, and decided to take over before Brass would push this girl over the edge and make things even worse. With one look into Brass' direction he knew what Sara's plan was, and walked off giving the women some privacy.

Taking a step towards the young woman she placed a hand on her shoulder, and gave a reassuring squeeze which earned her the full attention of the girl in front of her.

Giving the girl a once over Sara realized the girl reminded her of herself back in college. Dark brown hair, brown eyes and the looks of someone who didn't care much about anything other than her study.

"Come with me, let's sit down for a minute." Pulling the young woman towards a bench she finally got her to calm down a little.

"I'm Sara Sidle. I'm with the crime lab. In order to help you, you need to tell me what happened, ok?" she said as she placed her kit next to the bench and sat down.

A nod was the only response she got before silence filled the air.

"We were in our room. We were arguing and then I left."

Ok, Sara thought, it's a start. She knew she had to pry to get more information.

"Who's 'we'?" Sara asked.

A loud sob escaped the girl's throat. "Chris and I…My name's Sophie. Christine…she…she's my…my roommate."

Sara noticed the way she had said that…roommate…and decided to continue, "Roommate? You're just roommates?"

Another nod, then that dreadful silence again. But just as the CSI was about to speak up again Sophie started to shake her head.

"We're friends, best friends…at least that's how we stared out, but last week we both realized there was more going on between us."

The sobbing became heavier and Sophie's entire body started to shake. Sara placed her hand once again on the shoulder of the other woman.

The investigative part in her knew she had to push the girl, pry to get all the information she could get, but seeing the young woman crumble into pieces right in front of her made her doubt whether to do so.

The decision to continue was already made for her as Sophie spoke up again. "We both realized we loved each other, and just three days ago we went out on our first real date."

A smile came onto her face as she apparently remembered what they had done during that date. "We had such a nice time that evening."

"Why were you two fighting?" Sara asked

"She…she wanted me to go with her this weekend, to meet her parents. But I…I wasn't ready yet to come out. She said it were only her parents not the entire world…but I…I couldn't."

Sara had to fight the urge to let out a groan of frustration remembering the discussion she had had hours before with Catherine about the same subject.

"And after your argument you left?"

"Yes, I needed time to sort things out, to think about everything. So I went to Joe's. That's a small café just a block away. I sat there for an hour and realized that there was nowhere that I'd rather be than with Chris, so I hurried back to our room to tell her I was sorry for acting so stupid and that I'd love to go with her."

Sophie's eyes were blood-red as she looked up into Sara's. The CSI knew this was hard on the young woman and in the back of her mind her own conversation she had had with Catherine kept playing over and over again.

"When I arrived at our room I saw the door was open, and when I entered I noticed the entire room was a mess."

Sophie let out a little snicker. "At first I thought she had taken out her anger at our furniture…she has this temperament…that's one of the things I love about her."

Sara, listening to the story revealed to her, remembered her own strawberry blonde lover and how temperamental she could be.

"I know what you mean," she stated, a little smile also forming on her face.

Sophie's face showed a little confusion about that remark, but she let it slip and continued, "Then I noticed Chris wasn't there. I looked everywhere, checked the bathroom the laundry room, everywhere, but she was nowhere to be found. Then I went back to our room thinking she also had needed some time to think, and probably would be back soon."

Sophie stood up and turned her back to Sara. Knowing the end of all that had happened was near Sara did one last try.

"When you went back to your room, did you notice anything strange, besides the mess?"

"Not at first. I started picking up stuff…books, placing them back where they belonged. That's when I noticed."

The young woman's shoulders slumped as a big stream of air left her lungs. "I saw blood, near the door. A candlestick covered with blood lay next to it."

Suddenly Sophie's knees gave in and she fell to the ground, crying out loudly again repeating the words she had uttered before. "It's too late….Now I'll never have the chance…"

Sara quickly stepped towards the young brunette, pulled her up her feet again and spoke up, "I'll do everything I can. I'll find out what happened."

She had to fight back tears that were starting to form in her own eyes and were trying to form a trail of wetness over her cheek. She knew she shouldn't let this case get to her this much, but giving her own private situation there was no way she could forget about that.

Seeing the girl so broken, so desperate in front of her, she made up her mind. She couldn't risk losing Catherine. Where would she be without her? I'd probably feel the same as Sophie, she thought.

A light cough shook her out of her thoughts, and she turned to see Brass with a sad look on his face.

Sara shot him a questioning look -conveying what she wanted to ask without using words- and got a shake of the detective's head as answer.

Her stomach dropped as Brass walked off to a car of the coroner's office that just arrived.

Their suspicious circs had now turned into a murder case. Something she wasn't happy about. But then again, when would one be happy about a murder case?

Knowing she was needed to process the scene she motioned for an officer to come and watch Sophie while she walked over to talk with Brass.

Picking up her kit she headed off into the direction she had last seen the detective. With a heavy heart she headed towards an alley, and with every step she took it became harder for her to lift her feet.

Entering the alley that lay just behind the dorm she saw Brass standing next to David who was crouched down beside a garbage can.

With one last step she found herself standing next to Brass, staring into the face of a girl. Black hair framed around a small, beautiful face. The only thing that didn't fit the pretty face were those dark eyes, filled with terror.

Sara swallowed hard. They had found Chris. As far as she could see now, a blow to the head was what caused her death.

She placed her kit on the ground, put on latex gloves, and pulled out her camera. As she started taking pictures of the scene, she knew she wouldn't let Catherine wait for her any longer. Knowing that she needed the strawberry blonde -that she loved her so much, she didn't care about the world around them anymore.

About half an hour later, David took the body into custody and went on his way to the morgue where Doc Robins would perform the autopsy.

As Sara finished the scene in the alley Brass spoke up, "Find anything?"

"I think the blow on her head didn't kill her right away. She put up a fight. Found epithelial cells under her nails. Also found blonde hairs on her sweater. Definitely not hers, also not her girlfriend's, big chance they're from the perp. I'm done here."

"Ok, I'll inform the girl."

"No," Sara said, earning her a questioning glare from the tired looking man standing next to her. "Let me do it."

"What about the primary crime scene? Their room? It still needs to be processed," Brass quipped back.

"That scene is compromised. Sophie told me she cleaned up part of the mess. I'm not sure whether there'll be evidence left that will hold up in court. Let me first talk to Sophie, then I'll start on that room."

"Alright, I'll start asking around, see if any of their dorm-mates noticed anything strange."

***

As she walked over to the bench two eyes filled with fear looked up at her.

"I'm so sorry Sophie, but we…" Before Sara could finish her sentence a loud cry interrupted. Seeing the look -a mix of anger, despair, and grief on the girl's face Sara knew Sophie realized what she wanted to tell her.

"No!...It can't be…No…I never got the chance to show how much I loved her…and now…now it's too late."

Sara walked over to Sophie and embraced her, trying to sooth the girl. But knowing this gesture would never be enough to take away the pain inside her, a single tear rolled over the CSI's cheek.

"Can I see her?" Sophie asked. "I need to see her."

"She's being brought to the coroner's office now. You can see her later." Sara let go of the younger woman and walked her over to Brass who was standing at his Taurus -waiting patiently for the girl to take her along.

"Can't you come with me?" she asked as she noticed Sara walked back to the dorm.

"I don't think that'll be possible, you see, I need to process your room first before I can leave."

"Then I'll wait. I don't wanna go alone," Sophie said, ignoring the detective who would accompany her.

"Detective Brass will go with you, you won't be alone," Sara said

"No. I'll wait till you're ready."

Brass shrugged a little and Sara pulled him aside. "I'll go process the room. Could you please wait here for me, don't leave her on her own. Ok?"

"Sure," Brass said. "You know kid? You're definitely getting the hang of these people-skills." Meek smiles formed on both of their faces. "Now go, process!"

***

Half an hour later Sara was done with the room. Next to the candlestick, with blood and fingerprints on it, she had also found a muddy footprint, and more blonde hairs -same length as the ones found in the alley.

Brass ordered an officer to take his Taurus back to the PD as he rode along with Sara and Sophie in the black Tahoe.

No word was spoken during the ride over to the morgue, and the only sound heard was that of soft sobs.

Even before she had seen the lifeless body of her girlfriend Sophie felt sick. Not from the prospect of seeing a dead body for the first time in her life, but from the sterile environment she entered in the morgue.

Together with Brass, Sophie was waiting in a small room while Sara went to check if everything was arranged for the viewing.

Knowing Doc Robins had taken care of everything she walked back to the room to get Sophie. But before she opened the door her mind filled with images of Catherine. God, how glad I am I have her…that she's there for me. Last few days Sara had been adapting her independent life into one where she allowed her to be dependent on someone. Not just someone, but on Catherine…her Catherine.

"Sophie?" She asked as she opened the door. "Everything's ready. You can see her now."

Sophie merely nodded and passed Sara onto the hall. After a few steps they stopped in front of a large door that separated the hall form the viewing room.

Before Sara pushed the door open Sophie grabbed her hand. She needed all the support she could get and she trusted the older woman enough to ask it from her. Her tears seemed to have dried temporarily, and she was pulling herself together.

Entering the viewing room they walked over to a table with on top of it a white sheet that covered a body. Sara pulled the sheet down a little. A beautiful face appeared, and although all life had left, Christine's face was still as beautiful as Sophie remembered it.

After all the sobs and tears she had seen Sophie had shed, Sara was amazed at how strong the young woman looked now, not a single drip of water trailing a path over her cheek.

Sophie cupped her girlfriend's cold cheek. "I'm so sorry about our fight. I do love you…I will always love you." And with that said she placed one last soft kiss on the lips of her lifeless lover.

***

Because there were things that had to be arranged and also because Sophie needed to make a statement Sara and Brass took Sophie along to the CSI HQ to settle everything there.

The three of them walked into the large CSI building. And right before they reached a silent place where they would be able to take care of everything that still needed to be done Sara noticed someone walking their way.

She only needed a glimpse to know that someone was Catherine. Completely ignoring her surroundings she walked over to the blonde.

Her dark brown eyes started to fill with tears. Catherine noticed the sad state of her lover, but knew Sara wouldn't probably appreciate a public show of affection.

Therefore she was completely shocked at what happened next.

Sara's hand cupped her face and she felt an arm snake around her waist.

"Catherine, I love you so much, and I don't care anymore." Carefully but forcefully she claimed the strawberry blonde's lips in a searing kiss.

As Catherine opened her eyes and found her ability to speak again she noticed some colleagues with open mouths staring at them.

"What about them?" she said as she nodded into the direction of those staring persons.

"I don't care, we'll deal with them later," Sara answered before she once more engaged their lips in a kiss.

***


Chapter 7: Lovers, Friends…And Other Acquaintances

After Sara's mind-blowing kiss, Catherine's face had a permanent smile fixed on it even though she knew that all eyes were on them now.

"I've got some things that need to be taken care of first," Sara said, referring to the murder case. "After that, I think we need to have a talk with some of our friends."

Nodding her head towards Greg and Nick -both staring and with their jaws practically hanging on the floor- Sara kept smiling at her girlfriend. All shift long she had wanted to touch the strawberry blonde, and now she was reluctant to let go of her.

But she knew business came before pleasure, so, with a last chaste kiss on the older woman's cheek, and telling her that they'd meet up later she headed off towards the room that Brass and Sophie were in.

Entering the room she noticed the look on Brass' face. It wasn't one with contempt, but one filled with admiration, and when she passed him he placed his hand on her shoulder.

"I'm glad to see you've found someone. Although I never thought this person would be Catherine, I have to say you've found your match."

Sara looked sheepishly at the ground. "Thanks Jim." Talking with Brass about this all made her feel like a teenager again, telling her father about her girlfriend.

Looking over at Sophie she saw a smile on the girl's face, but her eyes betrayed her. They were filled with tears that were trying to force their way out. Sara knew what occupied the young woman's mind.

Walking towards the table where Sophie was seated Sara spoke up, "I'm sorry…"

But before she could continue she was stopped by Sophie who held up her hand. "Don't be. I'm glad for you." A tear slipped over her cheek.

Sara didn't know exactly what to do. She was having an internal conflict. Should she feel happy, because she had Catherine as her lover and finally came out? Or should she feel sad, because of what had happened to Chris and Sophie…or rather what they would never have?

A sob left Sophie's throat before she said "Can we please finish this? I want to get out of here."

"Sure," Brass said as he placed himself against the wall, opposite the table. "We'll start with your statement."

***

Meanwhile, Catherine, who was still a bit stunned about her lover's actions, walked down the hall -walking past Greg and Nick who both quickly stepped into a lab, pretending to be busy.

As she entered her office she had to laugh a little.

Sitting down she started to swivel in her desk chair. "Well this definitely wasn't the way I thought we would tell them," she said to herself. "But we still need to tell all of them…officially."

"Tell what?"

She turned around to face the person whose voice that had startled her.

"Oh, nothing," she said. "Just make sure that you'll be in the break room after shift. No excuses."

Grissom raised an eyebrow as he watched the smiling woman in front of him, giving her a questioning look.

"Don't worry Gil, we've got something to tell you all."

"We?" Grissom asked. Since he hadn't witnessed the display of affection in the hall minutes before, he didn't know who Catherine was talking about.

Not wanting to talk about this without Sara by her side, she walked over to Grissom "Just be there, then you'll know." and with that said she ushered him out of her office.

***

Sophie stepped out of the room, followed by Brass and Sara. Walking the young woman towards the exit of the CSI HQ Sara handed her a card.

"In case you need someone to talk to, you can always call me."

"Thanks," Sophie answered as she pulled Sara into a hug to show how she appreciated all that the CSI had done for her. Releasing the taller woman from her grip she turned, shook hands with Brass, and walked off.

While Brass and Sara were watching the retreating form of Sophie they both heard footsteps coming their way.

Feeling someone stop beside her and grab her hand, she turned to face her lover -a gap toothed smile came onto her face as she felt the other woman's thumb started to caress her hand.

Brass, seeing the easy interaction between the women, got a smile of his own on his face. The two women seemed to forget all their surroundings -getting lost in each other's eyes.

Letting out a little cough to get their attention the Captain placed himself in front of Catherine and embraced her, whispering in her ear "Take good care of her."

"You know I will Jim," Catherine answered sincerely.

"Yeah…Just wanted to be sure," he said as he let go and walked off.

"Oh, Jim?" Catherine called after him.

"Yeah?"

"Although you know already about…about us," she held up their entwined hands, "we would like you to come to the break room after shift."

"We do?" Sara looked at her a little surprised.

Being pulled closer to Catherine and receiving a squeeze from her, Sara spoke up again "We do." -this time not a question but a statement.

"Sure, I'll be there," he answered, and with a last wave he was off.

Catherine pulled Sara towards her office. "Where are we going?"

"To my office to…talk."

"Yeah right," Sara laughed as she noticed the sneaky look on the strawberry blonde's face.

The second after the door of Catherine's office was closed the older woman's lips were fiercely attacking Sara's lips. It was as if an electric shiver went through her entire body as she felt Sara's tongue tracing her lower lip, searching entrance to deepen the kiss.

Breaking away from the kiss -leaving a breathless Catherine behind- Sara had to laugh again. "Strange way of talking."

"Didn't you like it?" came Catherine's reply.

"Oh you know I did. A lot even. But was that all, or was there really something you wanted to talk about?"

"Well," Catherine started as she placed her forehead against Sara's, leaning her body more into the well-toned one of the brunette. "Since Nick and Greg saw us in the hall, and Brass being the only one that really knows about us, I asked the entire graveyard shift to wait in the break room at the end of shift."

"So that we can tell them all…officially," Sara said before she started placing light kisses in the nape of Catherine's neck.

"Hmmm, yeah," Catherine moaned. "I hope you don't mind."

Cupping Catherine's chin, and making her look straight into her eyes, she answered, "Of course not. I thought I had made that clear to you back in the hall." To emphasize her words she claimed the soft lips in front of her once more.

"Well then," Sara started as she extricated herself from the strawberry blonde's embrace "I'll see you in about an hour"

Just before she reached the door Sara felt her arm being pulled back, and as she turned around Catherine inched closer -their lips almost touching- and whispered "You forgot something."

Sara's lips curled up in a smile. "And what would that be?" she asked, her lips grazing along the other woman's as she spoke. Having Catherine this close, feeling her breath already touching her lips, Sara's mind almost shut down.

Catherine decided not to give into Sara's need and tease her a little, and backed away picking up a file. "I still need you to sign the paperwork of last week's B&E."

Letting out a frustrated groan Sara grabbed the file, picked up a pen and signed the papers. Throwing the file back on the blonde's desk she said "There, you happy now?" Looking at her lover she saw her coming over, a sneaky smile on her face.

After placing a chaste kiss on Sara's cheek Catherine whispered in her ear, "Thanks babe. See you in an hour." She picked up the file again and walked out of her office, leaving a stunned and turned on brunette behind.

***

Only five minutes of shift were left when Catherine found Sara in the locker room, walking back and forth, her entire body language betraying her nervousness.

"Sara, are you ok?" Catherine asked as she walked over and placed a hand on the brunette's tense shoulder effectively stopping the brunette's pacing.

After some hesitation she answered, "Yeah, it's just…"

Seeing the nervousness of the younger woman Catherine pushed her towards the bench in the middle of the locker room. "Come here, let's sit down for a minute."

Sara complied wordlessly and took a seat while Catherine kneeled in front of her. Placing herself in between the brunette's long legs Catherine cupped her chin and forced her to look into her eyes.

"Look, I don't know how they'll all react, but that's not even important. Most important is that I love you and together we'll get through this, no matter what their reaction will be."

Catherine's words re-established the feeling of being loved in the brunette, and gave her back the confidence she needed. Placing her hand on Catherine's cheek she leaned in and engaged their lips in a passionate kiss.

"I love you too, and I'm sorry about…"

But before she could continue, she was stopped by Catherine's finger on her lips. "Don't be. Just remember what I told you." The strawberry blonde got up and held out her hand.

"Come on, let's go. They're probably waiting for us already."

Taking the offered hand, Sara followed Catherine out of the locker room. Standing just outside the break room, they watched their friends.

"Did you see last night's game?" Warrick asked Brass.

"Nope, had to work. Not all of us have time to sit back and relax," he answered as he swatted Warrick's shoulder before walking over to the table where Grissom was seated reading a file.

Nick and Greg were still a bit shocked by what they had seen in the hall. They hadn't told anyone else, but had been talking about it with one another for the rest of shift. When Catherine had asked them to come to the break room after shift, they didn't dare to look her in the eyes.

Now sitting on a couch in the break room they continued speculating about what would happen. "You think they're really 'together-together'?" Greg asked.

Before Nick could enter Catherine and Sara walked in. He bent towards Greg and whispered, "I think we're going to find out right now."

"Hey guys, glad you're all here."

"What's up Cath?" Warrick asked as he walked over.

"Would you all please take a seat?" she asked.

As Brass walked by the two women he gave them an approving look. Giving the Captain a smile as he also took a seat, Sara felt she was doing the right thing. Even though her mind wasn't totally convinced of what they were about to do, in her heart she knew it was the right thing.

As she looked at all her colleagues who were looking at them expectantly she found back her courage, and grabbed Catherine's hand. Although she planned -well, rather hoped- Catherine would do the talking, Sara was the first to speak up.

Her mind had been working on how they could break this news carefully, but all the ideas left her mind as soon as her lips started moving. "We wanted to tell you all that we're having a relationship," she said as her eyes locked with those of the strawberry blonde next to her.

Catherine had to smile. Definitely Sara's way to bring the news…just bluntly throw it out in the open. Squeezing the younger woman's hand Catherine continued.

"And we're really happy together. We've been seeing each other for about two weeks now and we decided we wanted to keep it to us first, see how it worked out. But now we wanted to share our happiness with all of you. And we're sorry Nick, Greg…that you had to find it out the way you did."

"So you're 'together-together'?" Greg asked again, this time the question directed at the two women.

"Yeah Greg, we're 'together-together'," Sara smiled a gap toothed smile before placing a kiss on Catherine's cheek.

Warrick stood up and walked over to them. "I'm happy for you Cath," he said as he embraced the older woman. Turning to Sara he continued. "And of course also for you. I'm glad you both found someone."

"Thanks, Warrick," Sara answered as she also was engulfed in the arms of the tall dark man.

Feeling someone tap her shoulder, she extricated herself from Warrick's hug and turned to face Greg, who had a sneaky smile on his face -apparently he had already overcome his shocked state.

"Guess I never had a chance huh?" he asked.

"Nope, sorry Greg," Sara said as she placed her hand on his shoulder. "But I was really flattered by your attention."

"Yeah right," he quipped back. "Anyway, what's it like…you know...with Catherine…give me some details."

"Oh no Greg," Catherine said as she linked her arm around the younger woman. "Those details are not intended for your ears. You're a young healthy guy with probably enough imagination, so I don't think you'll need our details."

Seeing Greg's face getting redder by the second, laughter filled the room.

Until Catherine and Sara noticed Nick, he was still seated and hadn't said a thing.
He just sat there, still trying to cope with everything that had happened.

Catherine let go of her lover's waist and walked over to the Texan. "Nick? Are you ok?" she asked as she placed her hand on his shoulder.

"Yeah…yeah," he started. "Just a little surprised that's all. I mean…you two weren't the best of friends from the start."

"We know Nick," Sara said as she walked over and took a seat next to him. "It also surprised us. But we've spent a lot of time together, and…"

"You love each other," Nick finished, his lips curling up into a little smile.

"Yeah we do," Catherine said as she stepped closer to Sara who immediately placed her arm around her waist.

"I'm sorry about the way I reacted," Nick said, a feeling of shame coming over him.

"That's ok, Nick. We didn't mean to rub it in your face like we did before, back in the hall. But I had been working on a hard case, and I just…" Sara said looking up to her lover and then moving her focus to Nick.

"Needed someone to comfort you. And who can do that better than your lover, right?" Nick continued. "Well, it's good to know you both got someone that you can share things with." He stood up and walked over to the women.

"But don't forget about us. I mean, now you've got each other, remember we're here for you too."

Catherine embraced the square-jawed Texan. "We won't Nick, don't worry about that." As she said that she looked over his shoulder into two dark brown eyes that were filled with love…love for her.

Brass just sat there, taking it all in, and a smile on his face. He was glad Sara finally found someone equal, someone she could share everything with. But when he noticed the stern look on Grissom's face his own smile disappeared.

Catherine noticed the change in Brass' appearance and followed his gaze. Seeing Grissom she let go of Nick and motioned Sara to come along.

Standing in front of their boss -and friend- they waited for his response. He stood up and placed the file under his arm, and started to walk to the door. "Catherine, Sara, my office please." was the only thing he said before walking out of the break room -leaving the rest of the team behind, all of them with a stunned expression on their face.

Catherine saw Sara tense up entirely, and knew how important Grissom's acceptance was for the brunette.

***

Entering Gil's office, the two women saw him sitting behind his chair, a pensive look on his face. As he motioned them to take a seat, Catherine pulled Sara with her into the direction of the chairs opposite Grissom's.

Sara looked over at her girlfriend, who glared angrily at their boss. Minutes of eerie silence -that seemed more like hours to both of the women - passed before Catherine decided to speak up.

"Gil, if you're having a problem with this…"

But before she could finish her sentence Grissom raised his hand, effectively stopping the strawberry blonde's angry ranting.

"Although I'm not sure whether it is smart what you are doing, I cannot stop the two of you from being…intimate, but this cannot interfere with your job. As soon as this," he pointed from Sara to Catherine, "comes between you and doing your job properly, reprimands will follow."

Noticing how Catherine had a death-grip on the armrest Sara thought it best to intervene before the older woman would do something she'd regret later.

"We're professionals Grissom, we know how to keep work and private matters separated," Sara said while reaching for Catherine's hand.

Grissom looked at both of them and noticed all the emotions that were visible on their faces -anger, seriousness, love. "Good," he stated. "Now, Catherine if you don't mind I'd like to have a word with Sara, alone."

Raising an eyebrow, the older woman looked from Grissom to Sara, and as she saw the brunette's nod she gave her hand a little squeeze. "I'll be waiting for you in the break room." and with that said she left.

"Sara, do you realize what you're getting yourself into?" Grissom asked.

When she heard his question Sara felt her anger rise. "Yes Grissom, I definitely know that. And I want it, all, with all my heart. I love Catherine and Lindsey. They make me feel like part of a family, and I don't have to tell you how much I've wanted that my whole life."

Grissom didn't say a thing, he only nodded.

"I don't care if you can't stand seeing me and Catherine together, I know she loves me, and that's what matters the most to me," she said. Ok, Sara thought, that's not entirely true. I do want his support.

As she saw Grissom wasn't about to say anything more she got up and turned to leave.

"Sara, wait," Grissom spoke before the woman reached the door.

A sigh escaped her lips as she turned back to face him. She placed one hand in her side and the other up in the air. "What?!"

"Just be careful Sara. Catherine ca…"

"Save it Gil." Was the last thing the brunette said before leaving -a single tear finding its trail over her cheek.

Before she entered the break room -where Catherine was waiting for her- she tried to compose herself, not wanting the blonde to know how much Grissom's words had affected her.

But it was of no use. With just one look into those dark brown eyes Catherine exactly knew how the brunette felt. Walking over to the taller woman she pulled her into her own body, giving her all the comfort she could offer.

Brass -seeing how Sara's happiness had been replaced by sorrow- felt his temper rise, and walked out of the room.

Warrick, Nick and Greg, who had been talking to Catherine about what had happened in Grissom's office, all had apologetic looks on their faces -not really knowing what to say. None of them had expected their boss to react the way he had.

Noticing the exhausted look on Sara's face Catherine grabbed her stuff and pulled the other woman along.

"Come on, let's go home."

Continued