~ Roadkill ~
by Planet-solin



Disclaimers: See Chapter 1

Comments: If you have any comments or suggestions please write planet-solin@england.com.



Chapter Seven


Sydney always enjoyed the holidays but this year she was especially looking forward to it. For the first time in years she had someone else to think about and she didn't allow anything to dampen her enthusiasm, not even the fact that she had volunteered to work double shifts throughout the season. She was certain that somehow Alex would find time for them to be together.

She bought a few small items she knew Alex would like but she was looking for the one thing that would be able to communicate all the love she felt. At every available opportunity she went out to scour the local shops in search of the perfect gift but it took until the week before Christmas before she found what she wanted.

It was sitting in the display window of a small jewellery shop in the downtown market and for a long time she just stood admiring it's simple beauty. With one glance she knew it was perfect for the woman she loved and it didn't matter how much it cost. She went to work that afternoon feeling quite pleased with herself, unable to keep the smile off her lips as she wondered about her partners reaction.

The one thing Alex despised about Christmas was the fact that it forced her to go out and spend endless hours in the midst of pushy crowds looking for the appropriate gifts. More then once she had given money to her nieces and nephews in order to avoid having to waste time searching for presents, however, this year she actual looked forward to the ordeal and attributed this new mood entirely to her young lover.

She eagerly searched through the various shops and stores looking for one special gift. She had already bought Sydney several books and a Sonics basketball shirt but neither of those offerings were capable of expressing the importance of the woman's presence in her life.

It was at the end of a frustrating day and she was on her way home from a late afternoon meeting when out of the corner of her eye she caught sight of an interesting looking art shop. She pulled over and went to investigate the small store and emerged an hour later blissfully happy at discovering what she considered the perfect present. She wrapped her parcels, quite pleased with her purchases and eagerly looked forward to when she could give them to her companion.

The holiday's proved to be busier then usual for the Homicide Unit. It was the time of year when mankind showed it's greatest acts of kindness and the darkest side of it's nature. The pressures of the season brought with it a sharp increase of domestic violence that often escalated into murder. Simple arguments, fuelled by alcohol, exploded into outbursts of uncontrollable rage that often ended up with someone dying. Fortunately those were the cases where suspects were quickly identified and arrested.

When Sydney wasn't out on a call, she was at her desk pouring over the outstanding files. The one involving eight year old Tommy Kennedy continued to haunt her. She had used the evidence collected from the basement to build a solid case against the suspect. A man who had mysteriously disappeared.

Not even repeated visits to his distant cousins could produce any viable leads as to Lucas Anderson's whereabouts. Calls in regards to the case had dropped off and even the newspapers had moved onto a new topic of scandal.

The Phu Vang Tu murder was already consigned to the cold file. Everyone had concurred with her analysis that it was an unsolvable case. However, Alex had been able to persuade the persecutor to accept the deal Sydney had made with Van Phan in regards to the murder of Hootie Carleton. Two minor gang members came forward as witnesses and signed independent statements that Phu Vang Tu had killed the black gang member. All in all it was turning out to be a pretty good year because save for those two cases all of her murders were in the black.



Alex listened impatiently as the official from the persecutors office complained about some screw up that had been made during the investigation of a case which would now result it the suspect being released. It was an unfortunate incident and the detective involved would be reprimanded but on a whole she wasn't overly concerned.

The detectives in the homicide unit had begun to show a marked improvement in their attitude towards their jobs and that had reflected on the quality of their investigations. The diligent work had paid off with tighter cases, thus giving the persecutor less to complain about. Today she waited until he finished speaking before politely agreeing and then hanging up. She wasn't in the mood to listen to any more bitching.

As she put the phone down she glanced up and noticed that Sydney was at her desk. Whether it was out of habit or so that they could spend more time together the younger woman was working longer hours. Not that Alex minded looking out to see the woman there, it was strangely comforting, but she worried that her lover was pushing towards a burnout which was a major concern in all Homicide Units.

She sighed, twirling a pen around in her fingers as she leaned her head back against the chair. It was only five in the afternoon and Sydney had only started her shift, which meant that the detective wouldn't be off until much later. If she asked they might meet and have a few hours together before the younger woman would go home to sleep. It was an awkward arrangement and unsatisfying to them both.

Over the last few weeks they had worked hard at seeing each other, arranging time to be together, whether it was facing each other on the basketball court several times a week or an overnight stay at one of their apartments. They even managed to slip in several lunches while they were on the same rotation. But it never seemed enough.

In spite of the short time they spent together Alex found her feelings growing stronger every day. She knew without a doubt she loved Sydney, loved her as she would care for nobody else. What she wanted though was more. More then a few stolen hours or the occasional night of passion. They were so close yet at the same time so very far apart.

It hit her then with startling clarity and Alex knew for certain what she wanted. It was all those things that her brothers had, a nice home and children. More importantly she wanted it with Sydney. It was as simple as that.

Her eyes flew towards the blond woman, her heart pounding erratically. She wanted them to live together and having made that decision, she knew what had to be done. She picked up the phone and dialled a number, issuing a few instructions when the line was picked up on the other end. Once that was settle she stood up and stepped out of the office.

"Hey, how's it going?" she asked wandering up to the smaller woman's desk and putting a hand on a slender shoulder.

Sydney gave her lover a weary smile leaning into the touch so that for a brief moment their bodies made contact. She hadn't realized how difficult it would be to remain discreet and the longer they were together the harder it was becoming.

"Busy," the younger woman sighed feeling bereft when her lover moved away.

"What time do you get off tonight?" Alex asked keeping her voice low so that they couldn't be overheard.

"I'm here until ten," Sydney answered and then smiled. "Provided that is, no one succeeds in killing someone else."

"Hmm," the tall woman nodded, folding her arms across her chest.

"And you're in all day tomorrow and the day after?"

"Yep, seven until eleven," Sydney replied wondering why the other woman was asking when she already knew the answer.

"Do you feel up to going out for dinner tonight?"

"Sure."

"You're not too tired?" Alex asked genuinely concerned. She knew that her lover had been pulling extra shifts since earlier in the week.

"I'm never to tired to spend time with you," Sydney smiled and it was a look that reached inside and touched the taller woman's heart.

"I'll pick you up outside at ten."

"Do you promise to have me home and in bed early?" the blond detective asked with an impish grin.

"You can count on it," the Captain winked before straightening and walking across the room to speak with another member of the squad.

The smile on Sydney's face grew as she watched the woman walk away. With a sigh she turned her attention back to the papers strewn across her desk, hoping that the next few days would be quiet.

Exactly at ten that evening they met outside the station house. Sydney jumped into the sedan and leaned across the seat to give her lover a passionate kiss which only served as a reminder of their desire for one another.

Alex ignored the twisting in her gut and the warmth that flooded her nether regions, concentrating instead on manoeuvring the car away from the precinct. She had made late night reservations at an exclusive restaurant, the perfect setting in which to announce her intentions.

"Miss Marshall, it's a pleasure to see you tonight," the maitre'd gushed at the tall woman casting a curious glance at her short blond companion. "Your table is waiting."

Alex acknowledged the greeting with a curt nod and then gestured Sydney to follow the pencil thin man through the dimly lit restaurant to a table in a corner. It was secluded from the rest of the diners and afforded them the privacy that Alex had been seeking.

"You're food should be served shortly," the man bowed and then hurried away.

"Don't we get menus?" Sydney asked in amazement and her companion smiled benignly.

"I hope you don't mind but I took the liberty of ordering our meals in advance," the dark haired woman said casually and Sydney couldn't help notice how comfortable her lover seemed in this atmosphere.

"That depends on what you ordered?" the blond woman eyed her companion suspiciously. She received a seductive grin in response.

"It's a simple chicken dish with a special sauce and French fries on the side," Alex said and the smaller woman blushed.

"I suppose they probably laughed when you requested the French fries?" she muttered.

"No, they know better then that. Besides they are used to getting odd requests," the woman shrugged nonchalantly.

"Do you come here often?" Sydney asked glancing around the place and noticing that most of the other tables were occupied by couples or parties of four. "Is that why the maitre'd knew who you were?"

"This is one of my parents favourite places," Alex explained aware that her companion would be curious about their surroundings. "When we go out this is usually where we end up."

"Oh," the blond woman nodded and then fidgeted with the cutlery until the dark haired woman leaned over and put her hand on the smaller one, stilling the action.

"You're driving me crazy," she said with a tender smile. "What's wrong?"

"I'm not used to such a fancy restaurant and I get the weirdest feeling that this is the kind of place you come to make some dramatic announcement, " Sydney shrugged and then looked up to meet intense blue eyes. She swallowed the lump in her throat unable to hide the panic in her own green orbs. "You aren't dumping me are you?"

"No," the other woman laughed at her friends fears and squeezed her hand reassuringly, unable to wait until their meal was served. She had planned to ask her then but now she found she couldn't wait. She reached inside her pocket. "I got you something."

Sydney watched as the other woman placed a small box on the table. She stared at the object for a long moment, before glancing across at her companion. Her heart was hammering so loud in her chest that she was certain the whole restaurant could hear it.

"What is this?" she stammered, afraid of what was in the box.

"It's a key," Alex said quietly. "I want you too move in with me."

"What?" Sydney was shocked and wondered if she heard correctly.

Before Alex could explain the waiter arrived with their wine and briefly her attention was diverted as she tasted the vintage he brought, declaring it satisfactory. She could barely contain her impatience as the man poured them each a glass of the red liquid before hurrying off.

"I know I promised not to rush you but this being apart is driving me nuts," the older woman said continuing from where they had been interrupted. "We hardly get to see each other and then when we do it's always rushed. I want to come home and find you there and not have to worry that you will have to leave in an hour because you have to work in the morning."

Alex paused again as a second waiter arrived setting plates of salad down in front of them. The man opened his mouth to ask about garnishes but the dark haired woman impatiently waved to dismiss him. One glance at their joined hands resting on the table and the serious expressions on their faces and he knew to beat a hasty retreat.

"I guess more then anything I want to be able to roll over in bed at night and know that the only reason you're not there is because you're working," Alex paused again taking a deep breath. "I love you Sydney and if our situation was different I would be on my knees begging you to marry me but as that's not an option this is the next best thing I can think of."

Sydney was stunned. They had only really known each other for a short time and moving in together was a big step in any relationship. Though she didn't doubt her lovers sincerity she wasn't certain she was ready to make that type of commitment.

There was silence for a long moment as she thought about what to say. She was tired and unable to think straight, worried that if she gave this woman an answer she didn't want then it would be over between them and she didn't want them to be over. She glanced up unable to hide her anxiety.

"Are you sure of this?"

"I've never been more certain about anything in my life," Alex breathed, her heart trembling. She had seen the shock on the blond woman's face but she pushed ahead anyway hoping that she hadn't made a mistake. "I'm sorry, maybe I spoke to soon again, but I'm afraid that if we don't do something we will lose what we have and I don't want to lose that. Do you understand?"

"Yes," the blond nodded dropping her eyes, no longer able to look at her companion.

"It's all right," Alex saw the moment of panic that flashed across the other woman's face and she squeezed the small hand reassuringly. "You don't have to decide tonight, I want you to take your time and think about it."

Sydney was saved from making any response by the arrival of the officious maitre'd who looked at them and then at their untouched meals. He clasped his hands together anxiously.

"Is something not to your liking Miss Marshall?"

"No, everything is fine Paul," she answered the man with a polite smile, her voice revealing none of the anxiety that she felt. The man nodded his head not certain he believed her but graciously bowed and moved on to the next table. Alex turned her gaze back to her lover realizing that their hands were still together.

"I didn't mean to spoil the evening for you," she said softly.

"You didn't," Sydney assured her, glad for the brief respite that had given her a chance to compose her thoughts. "There are just so many things to consider like where would we live and wouldn't it cause a problem with the department?"

"We would find a place that was neither yours or mine, a place we pick out together," came the earnest answer, "and as for the department, it might cause a problem but I'm willing to take the chance."

"And what happens to us if I say no?" Sydney asked hesitantly finally looking up. This time it was her turn to see the flash of panic in the blue eyes of her companion but it was immediately gone, replaced by a brave smile.

"Then we'll go on," the dark haired woman assured her quietly, aware that the atmosphere around them had grown tense. "Whatever you decide Sydney, know that I will accept it because no matter what I don't want to lose you."

The blond detective wondered if that were the truth. She knew of her companion's impatience over their situation and of Alex's desire for more commitment in their relationship, yet she was so uncertain, afraid to take that step. She felt her hand being gently squeezed before it was released. She looked up into shining blue eyes.

"Come on let's drop the subject and eat, I know you must be hungry," the Captain said lightly revealing none of her thoughts.

Sydney had lost her appetite but she managed to eat what was served, though she couldn't have told anyone later how it tasted. At her request, she was dropped off back at the station. She was in a mood to be alone.

"I love you Sydney," Alex said and the younger woman merely nodded before shutting the door and walking over to her jeep. The Captain waited a moment before driving away feeling a hint of moisture in her eyes.

By the time Alex arrived at the office the next day Sydney was already out on a call. She felt a twinge of relief, not certain she could face the other woman this morning. She had been unable to sleep the previous evening, realizing the mistake she had made. In stead of bringing them closer together, her actions had only served to push them further apart. She locked herself away in her office and remained there until it was time to leave, grateful that she was going over to her parents place for the evening.

Sydney paced around the crime scene, rubbing her temples with her fingers in an attempt to rid herself of the ache that had been pounding in her head since she had woken that morning. She glanced at the corpse on the bed and the blood stains that were splattered on the headboard and walls.

The victim was a twenty seven year old woman who had ended up on the bad end of an argument with her common-in-law husband. According to witnesses at the house, the evening had begun as a simple Christmas party. Though no one was certain how it started, all agreed that a verbal fight had erupted between the pair with the suspect becoming enraged and accusing his wife of infidelity. Then before anyone one could stop him, the man had dragged his wife into the bedroom and shot her three times.

It was a simple open and shut case, for at the first signs of violence several guests had fled to summon the police. When the authorities had arrived it was to late for the victim but they had found the suspect in the house, laying passed out in the hallway, the gun still in his hand.

It was Christmas Eve and Sydney hated the sight of the blood and the chalk white features of the victim whose life had been ended so abruptly. It didn't matter how many times she saw the results, she didn't think she would ever get used to the sight of a body, laying in the position where the last breath of life had ebbed away.

Fortunately the officers on the scene where familiar with the routine and by the time she arrived the appropriate measures to secure all evidence and detain the witnesses was already underway. She glanced across at Janice who was methodically taking the necessary photographs.

"You working again this Christmas?" she asked casually of the other woman.

"Yeah," the photographer gave her a wan half smile. "My parents are spending the holidays in Mexico so I figured I might as well be working."

"What happened with the guy from payroll?" Sydney asked curiously, wondering if the woman's love life was going any better then the last time they had spoken.

"All talk and little action," Janice scrunched her nose at the memory wagging her little finger and the detective laughed before moving across the room to examine something that caught her attention.

It was noon before they were finished and she was on her way back to the station when she received another call. Normally it would have been taken by someone else but they were short staffed and the others were already out on cases that they hadn't finished. Fortunately like her earlier investigation this one appeared to be another clear cut situation.

An old woman had been found dead in her house by a relative who had come over to start preparations for Christmas dinner. A thorough investigation of the scene and an inspection of the house showed that there were no signs of foul play or any evidence of burglary. She had the scene thoroughly logged and photographed before letting the ME's take the body away. If she was correct in her assumption, they would find that the woman had died of natural causes.

It was evening before she got back to the office and with one glance about the room she knew that Alex had already left for the day. She took a deep breath, staring for a long moment at the dark room and feeling an incredible surge of loneliness fill her heart. She pulled out her chair and settled in to do the necessary paperwork, hoping that the phone wouldn't ring before it was time for her to sign out, and wishing she had made some arrangements to meet Alex later. No sooner did she have those thoughts when the phone rang and for a long moment she stared at it before reaching to answer its summons.

"Detective Davis," she spoke into the receiver mentally preparing herself to take down the details of another murder.

"Sydney..... is that you?"

The blond woman caught her breath. The voice was familiar yet she didn't dare want to believe that it was someone she hadn't heard from for so long. She closed her eyes and took several deep breathes.

"Anne?"

"Hey kid, Merry Christmas," the voice on the other end said casually and it was like no time had passed since they had last spoken.

"Merry Christmas," Sydney was wondering if she was imagining this. She had been working long hours on little sleep. "Is everything okay?"

"Yeah," the other woman snorted in a gruff voice. "I just thought I'd give you a call and see how your doing?"

"I'm fine."

"And your job, I hear you're solving murders now?"

"Yeah," Sydney nodded her head, realizing the irony of the situation. "I got promoted a year ago."

"I hear you're pretty good at it too," the woman said.

"I don't know about that," the detective replied modestly.

"Well, your boss seems to think so," Anne said hesitantly. "She's a pretty smart lady."

"Are you talking about Alex?" Sydney was surprised and confused at the same time. "When did you talk to her?"

"She came up to see me a couple of weeks ago," the prisoner replied and the nervousness of her voice came over the line. "Listen I haven't got much time here and I was thinking about it and maybe I made a mistake by jumping all over you for what you're doing."

Sydney remained silent, hardly able to breath as she listened to her sister's voice. The woman to whom she was talking was so different then the one who ranted and screamed at her during their last visit.

"You were always a hard ass about everything," the other woman continued. "You had to go your own way and it always seemed to be different then which direction the rest of us were going. In the end it was you who was on the right path and the rest of us who were running in circles."

"Then you're okay with all of this?" Sydney dared to ask.

"I won't lie to you Syd, I don't like that you're a cop and I don't like the fact that you're gay, it's not something I can really understand even though I've learnt a few things since being in the joint," the older woman said with a sigh. "But you're my sister and I would be a bigger fool then I have been if I were to lose that."

"Anne."

"Yeah?"

"I love you." There was a lengthy silence following the confession.

"I love you too, kid," came the mumbled reply.



Alex wandered around the festively decorated house, idly sipping from the glass of egg nog that she was holding. Dinner had been the usual family affair with everyone in attendance. After a big evening meal they had retreated into the sitting room where everyone had been presented with one gift. The rest under the huge tree would be opened the next afternoon when the family gathered once again.

"Come on kiddo, don't look so glum it's Christmas," Christie said draping an arm around her sister-in-law's shoulders. "If you don't cheer up, Santa isn't going to come down your chimney tonight."

"It's not Santa I want," the dark haired woman replied with a wry smile.

"Aah, then it must be a short blond detective that you're hoping to find under your tree tomorrow," the blond woman teased with a grin.

"I wish," Alex sighed shaking her head. "She's working tonight and tomorrow."

"Tough luck," Christie said taking a sip of her own glass of egg nog.

"Yeah, life sucks," the taller woman commented dryly causing the other woman to glance sharply in her direction.

"Me thinks that there is something more then your inability to be with your friend that is making you so grumpy," the blond woman prodded. "What gives?"

Alex was silent for a moment, allowing her eyes to sweep around the room where everyone else was gathered. The adults were esconed in chairs with drinks of egg nog in their hands, chatting amicably while the children were playing quietly with their Christmas treasures on the floor. It was such a warm scene and one that she wished to share with Sydney.

"You know the one thing that really sucks about being gay," she said startling her friend.

"What, that you can't blame a man for all your problems?" Christie asked lightly and received a growl from her companion.

"No," Alex scowled motioning to the scene before them. "It's that you can't have this. I mean you can be a part of this but you can't have any of it for yourself. Take Andrew and you for instance. It was all so simple, you fell in love, got married and had children. Me, I can fall in love but I can't get married and having children isn't a simple thing."

"It doesn't have to be that way," Christie said cautiously not certain what her sister-in-law was getting at. "If you aren't happy Alex, you could change."

"I am what I am Chris, it ain't going change and I don't want it to," the taller woman shook her head.

"Then what's really going on Alex?" the blond woman wanted to know.

Alex was quiet, taking a sip of her egg nog. She wondered if she should mention anything to her friend and then decided to bare her soul knowing she could trust this woman.

"I asked Sydney to move in with me."

"What did she say?"

"She wanted to think about it."

"Ouch!" Christie grimaced.

"Ouch is right," Alex sighed staring at her drink. "I don't know what I will do if she says no. I don't know if we could even go on."

"Why did you ask her?" her sister-in-law asked and the other woman looked at her with a puzzled expression on her face and the blond sighed impatiently. "Why do you want her to move in with you?"

"Because I love her," came the honest reply.

"Then focus on that," Christie counselled. "And if she says no then settle for what she wants. You guys haven't been going out that long and moving in together is a big commitment. If you love her don't give up. Don't get scared off by rejection, show her how much you care."

Alex looked at the other woman for a long moment and then wound her arm around her slender waist and squeezed her.

"You're a good friend," she said. "You've always been there for me even when everyone else didn't know what to think. You never even gave it a second thought when I told you I was gay."

"It didn't make a difference to me," Christie shrugged nonchalantly. "Besides I figure I owe you big time. You introduced me to your brother and there ain't no way I can repay you for that."

"I knew you'd be good for each other," Alex smiled.

"And I think Sydney is good for you," the blond woman said quietly. "Falling in love is easy Alex, it's making that love grow that takes all the work. The only thing you have to decide is if Sydney is worth the effort."

"She is."

"Then you have your answer," Christie said squeezing her sister-in-law's waist before wandering into the room to join her husband. Alex watched as the woman sat down on the armrest of her husband's chair and saw the way his arm naturally snaked it's way around her waist. She turned and wandered into the kitchen.



Sydney managed to make it home by eleven that evening. She knew that she had to be in at work in less then eight hours but she was to wound up to sleep. Instead she took a quick shower and then slipped into her pyjamas before slumping onto the sofa. She flipped on the television and watched the broadcast of a Christmas service from one of the local churches.

Her eyes were focused on the screen but her mind was on the phone call she had received earlier in the evening. It had been totally unexpected and the best Christmas present she could have ever received and if she was to believe her sister then she had Alex to thank for it.

Her thoughts paused to dwell on that situation, a tiny smile tipping the corners of her lips. She could just imagine the meeting between the two women. They were both hard headed and opinionated but somehow whatever Alex had said had gotten through to her sister. If she hadn't loved the other woman before she certainly did now. She closed her eyes and let the music from the television wash over her, thinking about the last twenty four hours.



Alex pulled up in front of the small apartment block and glanced up. There was light in Sydney's window and she felt a measure of hope. She climbed out of her car, juggling her parcels before locking up the vehicle and making her way up the steps. It had started to snow and small flakes clung to her long dark hair.

The knock on the door rousted Sydney from the light doze that she had fallen into. She sighed and struggled to her feet, padding across the apartment to answer the summons. She looked through the peep hole and swallowed the lump that gathered in her throat.

Alex stared at the younger woman for a long moment her heart expanding inside her chest. It seemed that every time she looked at Sydney, the smaller woman became more beautiful. Tonight dressed in an oversize white t-shirt and baggy plaid pyjama pants she looked especially adorable.

"Merry Christmas, love," she said softly holding out the gifts. Tears pooled in emerald eyes as Sydney bit down on her lower lip in an attempt to stop it from trembling and Alex knew in that instant her decision to come over had been the right one.

"Merry Christmas," was the tremulous reply as Sydney accepted the parcels.

She retreated into the living room, placing the packages down on the coffee table and waiting nervously as the taller woman peeled off her coat and shoes before moving into the room to join her. She watched as Alex sat down on the sofa and almost in reflex she reached over and flicked the remaining white flakes of snow off her dark hair. Suddenly she paused as if realizing what she was doing but before she could draw her hand away Alex had captured her wrist and brought it down to her lips.

The kiss was soft and gentle against the inside of her palm but it was electrifying and a jolt of energy shot up her arm and through her whole body. She didn't resist when the dark haired woman drew her down into a tight embrace that she automatically returned.

"I'm glad you came," Sydney whispered in her lovers ear laying a tender kiss on her neck.

"So am I," Alex whispered leaning back and reaching up to brush blond bangs off her lovers face before laying a tender kiss on her lips. "Come on, open up your presents."

Sydney gave her a brilliant smile and then like an eager child she pounced on the bundle of gifts that the woman had brought. She opened the first one, a brown paper bag, and Alex chortled with laughter at the younger woman's expression as she looked at the plastic container. The Captain snatched it out of her hands and put it to the side.

"I brought you some turkey and stuffing," the dark woman explained and her blond companion leaned over and kissed her.

"Thank you."

"Come on," Alex prodded. She was almost more eager then her companion anxious to see the reaction to the gifts she had bought.

Sydney tore into the next gaily wrapped package and cooed with delight over the trilogy of books by one of her favourite authors. It was followed by a second larger present that revealed a Sonics basketball shirt and shorts as well as several pairs of tickets.

"You'll come with me?" the blond detective asked and her companion nodded.

"I was hoping you would ask," Alex smiled and accepted the kiss that her lover bestowed on her. "You have one more."

Sydney nodded setting the opened parcels aside before she started undoing the ribbon that bound the last gift, a large flat box that was almost as large as the coffee table. She gasp as she drew the framed picture out of the packing box. It was a print of a Dutch painting, a replica of a canvas that she admired. She stared at the gift not knowing what to say, aware that it must have been tremendously expensive. She turned to her companion who was looking at her with a sheepish expression.

"Alex this is beautiful!"

"I knew as soon as I saw it that it was meant for you," the taller woman felt immensely pleased that the smaller woman was so delighted by her presents.

"Thank you," Sydney murmured staring at the picture and knowing instantly where she was going to hang it. She set it aside and lunged into her companions arms and for a long moment they remained on the sofa exchanging a series of passionate kisses. It was the smaller woman who finally broke off the embrace her breathing ragged. "I have something for you."

"You didn't have to get me anything," Alex protested.

"I know but I wanted too," the blond woman smiled and then scrambled off her lap and across the room to the small Christmas tree standing next to the television. She returned with several brightly wrapped packages which she handed to her taller companion.

Alex grinned, feeling like a little kid as she stripped the wrapping from the first present and found a beautiful black silk shirt with a colourful scarf. The second package revealed an expensive and intricate wooden model kit of a sailboat.

"I know you like the sea and I want to know what you're doing when I'm not around," the blond admitted sheepishly.

"I needed something to occupy me while you're are work," Alex returned the grin and reached for the last gift, a small box. Her heart pounded loudly in her ears as she carefully opened what she knew was a piece of jewellery.

There was a long silence as she flipped open the lid and stared as the brooch inside. It was circular in design with a sailboat, encrusted with tiny diamonds, in the middle. Alex lifted it out of its velvet bed and held it up.

"It's gorgeous," she whispered entranced by the beauty of the object. She looked at her companion and for a long moment blue and green eyes met. "This must have been expensive."

"Nothing is too expensive for you," Sydney whispered in reply and was rewarded with a soft kiss filled with love.

The blond woman leaned into the embrace savouring the taste of the other woman. It didn't matter how often they touched, it was never enough. This time it was Alex who leaned away aware that their passion was close to getting out of control and she had one more gift to give.

"I have one more present for you," the taller woman smiled and reached back over to her jacket and withdrew a small box from a pocket. She handed it over to her lover who stared at it for a long moment.

Sydney looked at the small gift for a long time before unwrapping it. She gasp reaching in to retrieve a small intricately designed animal carved out of teak. It was the image of a small elephant. She looked up at Alex who reached over and tenderly combed a strand of blond hair behind her ear.

"You have given me so much," the smaller woman whispered her voice thick with emotion as their eyes met again.

"I love you Sydney," came the sombre response. "Because of that I can never give you enough."

The blond detective stood up and moved across the room, placing the elephant on the top of the television amongst her collection before moving back towards the sofa, holding out her hand. Alex placed her hand inside the smaller woman's and stood up allowing the younger woman to led her to the bedroom.

"Are you sure?" Alex whispered gently caressing the smooth skin of her companions cheek, a gentle smile on her lips. "You have to be up early tomorrow."

"I don't care if I get any sleep tonight," Sydney said with certainty reaching up and pulling her companions head down so that their lips could meet.

They made love then, sharing the love they felt, but Alex made sure that their love making didn't go on all night. After their desires were satisfied they settled into each others arms.

"Go to sleep love," the dark haired woman whispered kissing a blond brow and with a yawn her companion complied.



Sydney leaned back in her chair and tapped her pen thoughtfully on the pad of paper on her desk unable to keep the smile off her face as she remembered the previous evening, basking in the love that filled her heart. Even though she had to work, she couldn't remember a better Christmas and it was all a result of her thoughtful partner.

Idly her eyes surveyed the quiet room, appreciating the fact that it was a slow day. Not one call had come in to the Unit and it was already four in the afternoon. The silence was a blessing for she had gotten the chance to catch up on her paperwork, but now she was just plain bored, as were the others who had volunteered to work this day.

Her eyes lingered on the two men in the corner. They were playing some card game to which she had originally been invited to join but had initially turned down. Now she wished she hadn't been so hasty. She sighed and stared at the blank computer screen in front of her.

It had been so typical of Alex to show up on her doorstep lastnight. So typical that she had actually waited up instead of going to bed. She had not been disappointed, then again the other woman had never done anything to disappoint her. The woman had always been there for her, always ready to go the extra step. There was no denying the fact that she loved Alex more than she had ever loved anyone else.

She thought of the phone call from her sister. In all the excitement of the previous day she had forgotten to thank her lover. Too talk to her sister again after all those years had been the best present she could have gotten. She closed her eyes as tears pooled in their depths.



Alex stepped into the squad room, pausing a moment to let her eyes absorb the quiet scene. She nodded to the two men in the corner and then proceeded to where the blond detective was sitting with her eyes closed. A smile came unbidden to her lips as she came to a halt by her lovers desk shifting her bags so that she could lean over to whisper in her colleagues ear.

"You know you're not supposed to sleep on the job," she said only loud enough for them to hear. "You should tell your lover to go home at night."

"Nah, that wouldn't be any fun," Sydney grinned back, basking in the warmth of the voice that washed over her senses. She opened her eyes to see blue ones not far away and she fought the urge to lean forward and kiss the woman.

"How's the day been?" Alex smiled straightening out her tall frame.

"Quiet," Sydney reconfirmed what the Captain had already learned from the desk Sergeant downstairs.

"Good, then you've had a chance to catch up on your paperwork," the dark haired woman mused.

"There's only so much paperwork you can do," the blond detective drawled, flexing her muscles, "especially when you're an action person."

Alex gave a low chuckle, patting the smaller woman's shoulder affectionately before moving on into her office where she deposited the brown paper bags she was carrying. Sydney watched for a moment as her companion moved about her office. Her heart filled with love for the other woman.

Alex looked over the memo's on her desk before filing them away. Only then did she unpack the bags and set everything out. She glanced at the desk and then at her watch before stepping out of the office and over to where the two male detectives were playing cards.

"It looks to be a slow day so why don't you guys take off," she said with a smile. "I'll stick around here with Det. Davis, so if you guys hurry you just might make Christmas dinner with your families. Oh, don't forget to have your pagers on just in case."

"Yes, Captain," both men grinned before immediately jumping to their feet and grabbing their jackets.

"See ya Syd," they called before rushing out the door.

"What? Was there a call?" Sydney wondered out loud taking her feet off her desk and swinging around to look at the tall woman who was now leaning casually against the door jam leading into her office.

"Nope," Alex smiled seductively. "I thought we could handle the rest of the shift on our own."

"Oh...Oh!" the blond detective grinned. "I like that idea."

"I thought you might," the Captain returned the smile and then motioned her head towards the office. "Come on, I brought something for you."

Sydney was immediately on her feet and quickly across the room. She paused at the door, her jaw dropping in shock as she spied the elegant dinner setting that were carefully laid out on the desk. In the very center was a single candle and a rose.

"Seeing you couldn't come to Christmas dinner, I thought I'd bring a little bit of Christmas dinner to you," the tall woman said motioning for her companion to take the empty chair on the other side of the desk.

Sydney nodded still in shock as she glanced over the small feast. There was a platter with the traditional turkey meat and gravy, another with mashed potatoes and stuffing, and a third dish filled with steamed vegetables. There was even a bowl of salad. She looked up at her lover, her green eyes shinning.

"Is it okay?" the Captain asked shyly.

"It's great," the blond detective said breathlessly. "You know if we weren't at work, I'd kiss you so hard your knees would melt."

"Save that for tonight," Alex beamed, proud that her actions was the reason for the glow that appeared on the younger woman's face. "Right now let's eat before it gets cold."

"This is wonderful," Sydney remarked filling her plate with the delicious food. "Did you make this?"

"No," was the sheepish confession. "I stole it out of my mom's kitchen. She has this thing about preparing the big meals, says it's all a part of the whole family celebration thing. They should be sitting down for dinner anytime now."

"Gosh, you're missing your Christmas dinner," Sydney suddenly felt self-conscious.

"No, I'm not," Alex disagreed with some amusement. A pair of eyebrows disappeared under dark bangs as she motioned to the food that cluttered the desktop. "What do you call this?"

"Yeah well," Sydney flushed with embarrassment. "But you should be with your family."

You are my family, Alex wanted to say but instead she merely shrugged.

"I wanted to be with you," it was an honest enough answer. Sydney felt her heart swell at the response and it took several deep breaths to steady her heart beat.

"Thank you," she whispered softly her eyes glowing with emotion and Alex smiled, her own heart swelling with love, aware that she had done good. "You have been so good to me I don't know how I can repay you."

"I don't want repayment," Alex said quietly. "I do this because I love you."

"I know," the other woman nodded solemnly, then hesitated briefly before continuing. "Is that the reason you went to see my sister?"

Alex caught her breath, uncertain if her intrusion was welcome. She searched her companions face hoping to gain some clue as to what the other woman was thinking. She took courage in the soft expression that gazed back at her.

"Did she call you?"

"Yes," Sydney confirmed softly. "She called yesterday when I was at work. We talked for quite a while. I don't know what you said to her but thank you."

"I only told her the truth," Alex was slightly embarrassed. "It seems to me like she was only looking for an excuse to make up with you."

"I'm glad you gave it to her," the blond said solemnly and the tall woman smiled deciding it was time to lighten the mood.

"Have you decided where you're going to hang the picture yet?" Alex asked and Sydney bobbed her head with an impish grin.

"I've got the perfect place," the blond woman replied with a broad smile. "I thought it would look good right over the sofa in your living room."

For a moment Alex frowned and then felt a moment of concern. "Don't you like it?"

"I adore it, that's why I want to put it where I'd get to see it all the time," Sydney said and then laughed when her companion didn't seem to understand. "I want it in our place."

"Really?" Alex sat straight up in her chair. Her eyes were huge. "Are you sure?"

"Yes," the blond detective nodded her head.

"But the other night you seemed uncertain," the dark haired woman said, swallowing compulsively.

"Any doubts I have about living with you were completely swept away by the way you've treated me these last few days," the smaller woman said quietly. "I would be a fool to think I could ever find someone better then you."

Alex flushed at the compliment. "Well, we don't have to live at my place."

"But I kind of like your place," Sydney replied shyly.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes," the blond nodded her head definitely. "I don't think I have ever been so certain about anything in my life."

Alex couldn't restrain herself and in one quick motion she was on her feet and around the desk. Sydney barely had time to put her fork down before she felt the soft lips on her mouth. The kiss went on for a long moment before the taller woman finally withdrew and the blond woman had to gulp for breath.

"The only problem is that my lease doesn't run out for another three months," Sydney said once they were both back in their chairs and eating once again.

"I'll pay your rent," Alex breathed and the blond detective laughed.

"I hope you don't regret this," she said instead briefly growing serious. "I'm not the greatest roommate."

"We'll work it out," the dark haired woman promised and somehow Sydney knew that they would.

"You'll tell your mother that I really liked this food," she said and that drew a broad grin from her companion.

"You can tell her yourself," Alex smiled tentatively. "They really want to meet you and I thought it might be a good idea for us to go out to dinner with them this week, that is if you feel up to it?"

Sydney bit down on her lower lip, feeling the old nervousness return. She glanced at her companion and then at the food spread out on the desk between them.

"I think it would be a good idea," she agreed, expelling a deep breath.

"Are you sure?" Alex wanted the most important people in her life to meet but she was afraid of pushing the other woman.

"Yes," Sydney smiled shyly and then winked. "I think they should probably meet the person you intend moving in with, don't you?"

"Oh..." the taller woman said and the blond detective chuckled.



Chapter Eight



Sydney fidgeted nervously with her hands, unable to keep her digits still on the drive over to the restaurant that evening. Though she had several days to get used to the idea she was still anxious about meeting Alex's parents. In spite of her lover's quiet reassurances she was fearful about their reception and to appear less ignorant she had discreetly gone about doing her own research on the family. Unfortunately what she learned only served to increase her feelings of anxiety.

The information was easy enough to obtain for the couple lead a high profile life amongst Seattle's social elite. Warren Marshall was a well known litigator who headed a large Legal firm that represented more than a few officials from every level of government. Marie, the matriarch of the family, was actively involved in several National Committees that raised millions of dollars each year for the various charities the couple supported.

Everything she found out about the couple re-enforced her belief that they were a formidable pair. A couple who conducted their lives with the highest morale standard. They were an affable pair well liked in the community who were known for never allowing their personal opinions to cloud their judgement. She hoped in her own case that was true because the rest of what she had learned, had left her feeling completely intimidated.

Sydney had never placed much importance on money, reckoning she had enough as long as she was able to pay her bills and have a little extra to buy the luxuries she sometimes wanted. She knew by most standard's she would be considered poor, after all her salary as a police detective wasn't enormous which was the reason many of her married colleagues worked at second jobs.

She sighed, feeling an unknown burden. She had known that the Marshall's were rich, but the extent of their wealth was beyond even what she had imagined. Her own lack of riches had never before been an issue but she feared now that Alex's parents would consider her friendship with their daughter in a more dubious light. As if sensing her distress the other woman reached across the seat and grasped a smaller hand in her own.

"Relax, sweetheart, it's only dinner," Alex flashed a reassuring smile.

"That's easy for you to say," Sydney shot back. "It's not my parent's we're going to meet."

"Do you think it was any easier going to see your sister?" the taller woman asked pointedly and the blond woman had to concede that her lover was right. "By the way have I told you yet how beautiful you look?"

"Only a dozen times," came the grinning reply and the smaller woman felt her fears lessen.

She glanced down at her outfit. She had fussed for a long time before selecting what clothes to wear finally choosing a red silk jacket and matching skirt for the occasion. A black turtleneck and a single strand of pearls completed the ensemble. She had carefully arranged her blonde hair into a French braid that rested in the middle of her back.

She cast a glance at her companion. Alex was dressed in a black turtleneck and matching trousers with a red jacket overtop. With her long dark hair left loose around her shoulders she looked absolutely gorgeous and Sydney stared for a long time at her lovers appearance. Unbeknownst to either of them, their different heights and colourings made them a strikingly beautiful couple. Which was the exact thought that popped into Marie Marshall's head when she saw the pair step into the restaurant.

Her heart stopped for a minute at the sight, her eyes narrowing perceptively as they focused in on the couple as they stood in the foyer waiting for the maitre'd to escort them to their table. She saw the way her tall daughter reached out to clasp the smaller woman's hand and the intimate look they exchanged. There was a chemistry, an invisible bond that wove a tiny spell around the couple. It was so strong it was almost palpable.

She knew in that instant that she had lost her daughter to the other woman and that realization caused an intense wave of jealousy to thread through her body. They had never been as close as she would have liked and Marie had often envied her friends and the relationships they shared with their own daughters.

She glanced around the room and saw that she was not the only one who had noticed the couple's entrance. There were others, both men and women, watching the pair as they casually threaded their way across the room and the expressions on their faces mirrored their thoughts. She saw a mixture of awe and surprise but none of the hate or disgust that she had imagined.

"Remember, their not snobs," Alex whispered to her companion as they followed the maitre'd across the restaurant towards the table where her parents were already seated. As if to prove her point she lifted the smaller hand and kissed it to reassure her companion. Sydney smiled in appreciation but didn't have time to say anything before they were at the table and she was looking into the faces of the people who had created her lover. She could see parts of them both in the younger woman.

"Mom, dad, I'd like you to meet Sydney Davis," Alex made the introductions. "Sydney these are my parents Marie and Warren Marshall."

Handshakes followed the polite greeting and the usual pleasantries were made before they sat down to order their food. A chilled bottle of wine had already been opened and Warren poured each of the younger women a glass for which Sydney was grateful because she immediately took a sip.

"Sydney, Alex hasn't told us much about you," Marie initiated the more personal conversation once the food had been ordered.

"There isn't really much to tell," Sydney offered with a tiny smile. "I get up in the morning, go to work and then go home at night."

"Do you have any family in the city?"

"No," the blond woman wondered how much she should tell these people. She wanted to make a good impression but she also wanted to be truthful. If she was going to live with their daughter the secrets were libel to come out so she decided to be honest from the beginning of what she hoped

would be a long relationship.

"My sister lives upstate and I haven't seen my father in over ten years. Last I heard he was on his way to California."

"And your mother?" Marie asked carefully.

"I haven't seen her since I was seven," came the blunt answer and the older woman nodded while casting her daughter a look of censure, clearly telling the girl with the one glance that she should have been slightly more forthcoming about her companion's situation. Sydney saw the look and correctly interpreted it.

"I don't tell many people about my private life and those I do, respect my privacy enough not to say anything," she said softly. Marie was slightly startled by the girl's defence of her daughter.

"I hear you play basketball," Warren interjected quickly, aware of the tension that had sprung up. He was anxious to avoid any type of scene, determined to be supportive of his daughter's situation. "Did she tell you that she played in college?"

"Yes," Sydney was appreciative of the change in subject. An impish smile flashed across her face as she glanced sideways at her companion and saw the flustered look on the taller woman's features. "I learned the hard way that she was also on the National Squad."

"How much money did she take from you?" the man asked with a laugh.

"Money?"

"Yes," Warren couldn't hide his amusement or his pride as he glanced at his daughter. "She likes to pick a mark and challenge them to a match and then take as much money off them as she can. I can only imagine how much money she has earned in that fashion."

"She pounded me into the court but we never put any money on the game," Sydney said

remembering the match they had played. The man seemed surprised and chuckled heartily.

"She really must have liked you." The comment brought a faint colouring to the dark haired woman's face and Alex hastily changed the subject again.

The meal turned out to be a pleasant affair and Sydney naturally felt herself relaxing. Warren had a keen sense of humour and more then once he had them in stitches regaling them with antics of their only daughter. Alex suffered through the humiliation with grace.

Marie was content to sit back and observe the scene, her sharp brown eyes scrutinizing the pair. The smaller woman was certainly pretty with a heart shaped face and twinkling green eyes that looked at her daughter with nothing less then adoration. The two women looked so different yet at the same time it was like they were perfectly matched.

Even their personalities seemed to compliment each other, the blond woman's friendly openness offsetting her own daughter's stoic demeanor. It was eerie how well they seemed to fit together and on a certain level it only increased her dislike for the small woman.

"What kind of childhood did you have?" Marie directed the conversation back to their guest when there was a lull in the conversation. Despite everything that had been said they still knew very little about this stranger.

"I got into my share of trouble," Sydney admitted. "My father was working or out most of the time so it was left up to my sister to look out for me. We used to hang out with her friends who were all quite a bit older so I naturally learned a few things a little earlier than most kids. Fortunately I didn't get into the kind of trouble that would have ruined my life."

Marie recognized the answer was vague. Experience told her that there was more that was left unsaid and that made her uneasy but she knew better then to press the subject. She sensed that the younger woman had come from an unstable background and because of that she told herself that the girl was all wrong for her only daughter.

It was at the end of the meal when they were preparing to leave that Sydney decided she better visit the restroom before departing. She was a little surprised when the older woman decided to tag along for she had the distinct impression that Marie Marshall didn't like her.

She exited the stall and went to the sink to wash her hands aware that Alex's mother was glancing at her make-up in the mirror. The older woman was beautiful and Sydney had a fair idea from looking at the matron of what her lover would look like in the years to come. Their eyes caught in the mirror and the blond woman blushed with embarrassment.

"I'd like to thank you," Sydney said hastily, feeling awkward.

"For what dear?" Marie looked startled.

"For telling Alex to follow her heart. I know how hard it must have been for you to do that especially as you don't approve of her lifestyle."

The impromptu display of gratitude was unexpected and for a brief instant the older woman was rendered speechless. It was easy when I couldn't put a face to the person that Alex loved, Marie thought to herself examining the girl critically.

"Alexandria is my only daughter and I would have preferred had she had fallen in love with a man instead of you, but she is happier than I have ever seen her and because you are the cause of that I should be grateful...."

"But?" Sydney knew there was more.

"But I can't help thinking that you are all wrong for my daughter," Marie was bluntly honest giving in

to her jealousy. "You come from a rough background and I fear because of that you will only end up hurting her and that Miss Davis is something I won't tolerate. I love Alexandria and I only want the very best for her so be warned, if you break her heart you will pay."

Without another word the woman turned and stalked out of the restroom leaving Sydney staring dumbfounded at the mirror. She closed her eyes and took several deep breaths, fighting the tears that threatened to come. She had tried so hard to make these people like her and she had failed. The pain that realization caused was incredible.

Marie caught up to her daughter outside the restaurant where the girl was waiting with her father for the valet to bring around their cars. She noticed the way Alex glanced passed her, searching for the smaller woman.

"It would have been nice if you had the curtesy to let us know a little about your friend before introducing us. It could have saved some awkward moments," the woman said dryly diverting the girl's attention.

"I'm sorry mom, I didn't think," Alex sighed. "Truth is Sydney doesn't talk much about her family. She didn't have the greatest upbringing. Her mother deserted the family when she was quite young, her father was an alcoholic and she sister is currently serving a life sentence upstate for the murder of a state trooper. She's had a hard life and was in trouble as a juvenile, but she's turned her life around."

"She seems like a pretty amazing young woman," Marie said quietly barely masking the sarcasm she felt.

"She is," Alex agreed with a deep breath not disguising the emotion she felt and completely oblivious to her mother's true feelings.

"I like her Alex," Warren interjected as the valet brought up his car. "She will make a nice addition to the family."

"Thank you," the younger woman breathed grateful for his acceptance.

"I can just imagine what the family brunchs are going to be like from now on," the man chuckled. "If she is as competitive as you are, your brothers are in trouble."

Alex laughed aware to what her father was referring. She was certain that the first get together would undoubtably result in a basketball challenge. A grin etched itself across her lips as she thought how much money she might be able to get off her brothers. She accepted the keys from the valet before kissing her mothers cheek farewell and nodding to her father as he climbed behind the wheel of his own Mercedes. She was exceptionally pleased by how the evening had gone.

By the time Sydney appeared the other couple was gone and for that she was relieved. She had taken a long while to compose herself, unwilling to let on to her companion what had occurred.

"You okay?" Alex asked with concern once she saw the odd expression on her partner's face as the girl climbed into the jeep.

"Yeah, just a slight headache," Sydney lied, keeping her eyes focused straight ahead. "You're parents seem very nice."

"I like'em," the dark haired woman agreed with a low chuckle as she thought of her father's last words.

"They love you very much," the blond woman continued and turned her gaze onto her companion who was concentrating on the traffic on the road.

"And they liked you," the taller woman said reaching out with her free hand to grasp the smaller one and giving it a comforting squeeze.

Sydney said nothing to dispute that claim though she knew differently. Alex believed that her parent's had accepted her and she would do nothing to change that belief. She had dealt with hostile situations before and this would only be another one.

In Alex's mind the meeting with her parents had gone better than she hoped though she had no reason to suspect otherwise. She loved and respected her family and felt the same for Sydney so there really hadn't been anything for her to worry about. However, she had no such grand illusions about the lunch meeting she had arranged with the Commissioner.

She waited until after the New Year to set the appointment. Sydney had committed herself to working over the holiday but still they managed to be together, stealing their way onto the roof of the station house to ring in the New Year with a glass of non-alcoholic champagne and a kiss. It had been a wonderful night in spite of their surroundings and she surmised it had simply been because they had been together.

She turned her thoughts away from her partner and concentrated on the ordeal ahead. She knew that she could keep her relationship with Sydney a secret but she also knew that it wouldn't be fair to the man who had put his trust in her. The one thing she hoped was that George would not think to badly of her. His opinion had always been very important.

"So Alex, what's up?" the man initiated the conversation once the normal pleasantries had been dispensed with. He knew the younger woman well enough to know that for her to approach him there had to be a huge problem. An issue she was unable to resolve.

"We have a problem George," Alex said confirming his suspicions. "I'm in love."

"Congratulations," the older man smiled amused by her confession though somewhat confused. "However I don't see a problem with that."

Alex gave him a cryptic smile. "The problem isn't that I'm in love George, the problem is that I'm in love with one of my detectives."

"Ohhh," comprehension slowly dawned on the man as he realized the gravity of the situation. "That is a problem."

"Right," she replied seriously, pushing the food on her plate around with her fork.

"If I may ask, how long has this problem existed?"

"We've been dating for about three months."

The man pursed his lips together thoughtfully, his grey eyes narrowing preceptively as he gazed at the woman across the table. He knew Alex well enough to know that this was no passing fancy. She would not have put her career at risk for a simple roll in the hay. In that way she was very much unlike many of her colleagues.

"Do you mind if I ask who it is?"

"That's the second problem George," Alex swallowed rubbing her temple briefly. She had not discussed this with Sydney and hoped that she wasn't betraying the other woman's trust by sharing their secret. "I'm gay."

"Ohh..," this was almost as big a shock as the first announcement had been. His mind started wandering over the list of detectives who worked in the Homicide Unit wondering who this woman could be involved with if she was gay. All the detectives were men except for...

"Sydney Davis," he spoke his thoughts out loud.

"Yes," the woman nodded solemnly, almost feeling a relief at the confession.

"Christ Alex, don't you know what you're doing," the Commissioner exploded as the full impact of what she was telling him sank in. He was struggling to keep his emotions in check. "We have policies prohibiting stuff like this. What was going on in your head?"

"I wasn't acting with my head," Alex admitted wondering if it would have made a difference if she had been involved with one of the male detectives.

"Obviously," the man sputtered. "Hell, do you realize what could happen if you break up? She could take the department to the cleaners."

"Sydney isn't like that," she defended the absent woman. She knew what could happen if they broke

up but she had a firm trust in her young lover.

"Shit Alex you don't know that, no one can predict what will happen in a break up," George showed his irritation. "I thought you were above that sort of thing."

"Above what George, falling in love?" the tall woman asked balefully unable to mask the hurt she felt at his comment.

"No.." the man immediately knew his mistake. "I didn't mean that."

"Then what did you mean?"

"Everything," the man waved his hand in the air. "This isn't like you."

"I suppose you're right," she sighed. "If it's going to cause a problem I'll resign."

"Christ don't start talking about quitting your job," the man continued in the same tone of voice.

Despite her admission he was reluctant to lose the woman. The Homicide Unit had never been in better shape. The clearance rate had gone up by fifty per cent and the whole team of detectives seemed happy. Even the complaints from the DA's office had diminished. He didn't want to lose the stability that the woman's presence had brought.

"We'll just transfer her to another department."

"No," Alex rejected the offer. "Sydney is a good detective and she likes her job. I don't want her penalized for this. If anyone moves it should be me."

"Come on Alex, use you're common sense, you're more valuable then her," the Commissioner debated. "I don't want to lose you."

"Then we'll have to come up with a compromise," the woman said, "because if it comes down to choosing between Sydney and my job, I'm gone."

The man eyed her critically. Not for one minute did he believe that she was bluffing. He knew that Alex didn't issue threats that she didn't back up. If she said she was leaving, she would be gone.

"Okay let's not do anything hasty here. Exactly how long have the two of you been seeing each other?"

"More than three months," Alex repeated her earlier statement and the man peered at her intently.

"I take it then that this is serious and not some passing fancy?"

"We are moving in together," she was honest

"Does anybody else know about this?"

"Not that I know of," she replied honestly. "We've tried to be discreet."

It was obvious to the man that they had been successful in that capacity. It was normal for the department to be rife with rumours, however nothing of a romantic nature had circulated about the two women. Perhaps it was possible to keep the matter quiet.

"If nobody knows anything why did you bring it to my attention?" he was curious, realizing that the woman could have kept the relationship quiet. He knew she had taken a big chance by advising him of the situation.

"I respect you George and didn't want you to get blindsided by this if it ever did come out."

"I appreciate the consideration," he commented dryly eyeing her for a long moment. "Against my better judgement I'm not going to do anything. You're a smart woman Alex and I'm surprised to find you in this type of situation but I've learned to trust your judgement. I'm going to continue to trust you on this one and pretend I know nothing, however if something happens I'm not certain I can protect you."

"I wouldn't expect you too," the woman said.

"I appreciate that," the man nodded and then added as a caution. "Be careful Alex, there are others in the department that won't be as forgiving."

All in all the interview didn't go as badly as Alex suspected it would and she returned to the station house feeling happier then she expected to feel. She immediately sought out her partner, uncertain how the younger woman would feel about her actions. She found the blond detective in the change room.

"How did your meeting with the Commissioner go?" Sydney asked as the Captain sat down on a bench.

"Better then I expected," the older woman conceded and then glanced pensively at her companion.

"I told him about us."

"Oh..." the single word escaped from between pursed lips. "What did he say?"

"He wasn't happy," she was honest feeling a wave of relief. She had envisioned a slightly different reaction from her young lover.

"Is it going to cause a problem?"

"I don't know."

Sydney was quiet for a long moment as she contemplated that answer. Unconsciously she reached up and rubbed the side of her nose as a frown burrowed it's way across her brow. It was a familiar and cute gesture and Alex fought the urge to smile.

"I don't want you to get in trouble Alex," the younger woman finally sighed and for a brief moment blue and green eyes met. "If it's going to be a problem I'll ask for a transfer."

"No," the Captain gave her lover a tender smile. "He's not going to do anything, as long as we continue to be discreet."

"Will it affect our moving in together?" Sydney asked hesitantly.

"I wouldn't let anything do that," Alex replied truthfully. "When do you think you will be ready to move?"

"The weekend," the blond woman allowed a smile to crease her face.

"Do you need any help?" Alex couldn't hide her eagerness and the grin on the smaller woman's face grew.

"No, just make sure there's room for my stuff."

"In that case I better get home and start clearing out some closets," the Captain returned the smile as she rose to her feet and then added hopefully. "Will I see you later?"

"You can count on it," came the solemn promise.

Sydney watched her lover leave. She was nervous and excited all at the same time, afraid that she was making a mistake by moving in with Alex so soon into their relationship. After all she had never lived with anyone and she didn't know how they would adjust to the changes that this would make to both their lives.

She went through the week hardly thinking about what she was doing, yet somehow managing to make all the right decisions. It was Thursday when a curious note landed on her desk. She had just gotten back from a call when she found the message and fax sitting by her computer.

"Where did this come from?" she asked glancing at the other detectives who were in the room.

"It came in a few hours ago," Norm supplied leaning back in his chair. "That police officer from Vancouver you were dealing with on the Kennedy case called to say that he had managed to get some more info for you on Lucas Anderson."

Sydney nodded and sat down flipping open the folder and consuming the contents with a voracious appetite. No matter how hard she tried, she was unable to get the thought of little Tommy Kennedy out of her head. More then any other case she wanted to solve this one. She wanted to nail the man who had kidnapped, abused and then ultimately killed the young boy. She picked up the phone and dialled the number that her fellow officer had included with the fax.

"Apparently our guy has a remote cabin up in the mountains out in your area," her Canadian counterpart said after they had exchanged the usual pleasantries. "A distant relative, a cousin, contacted us with the information. Unfortunately he was out of the country until a few days ago and didn't know we were looking for Andersen."

"Damn," Sydney muttered, her mind already working through the possibilities. "If it's true then that was probably where he disappeared too after kidnapping the kid."

"And more then likely where he could be hiding right now," the man on the other end of the line continued her thought.

"Did he tell you where the place was?" she wanted to know.

"He couldn't remember the location because he had only been up there once a long time ago, but he

did say that his cousin's in Seattle knew where it was."

"I always had a suspicion that Eddie Williams wasn't being entirely honest with us," Sydney sighed, deciding on her next course of action. "I think, I'll pay another visit to the cousin's and this time I wouldn't be so nice."

"Sounds good," the man voiced his approval. "Let me know what happens."

"I will," the woman promised before ringing off. She glanced at the clock. It was six in the morning

and the dawn was just beginning to light the sky. She saw no reason for waiting to roust the couple in question.

As expected, Eddie Williams and his wife Alice were still in bed when she pounded on the door to their house. The man answered the summons, dressed only in a pair of white boxer shorts and a t-shirt. Without waiting for him to speak, she grabbed his arm and twisted him around, slapping a pair of cuffs on his wrists before turning him over to the two patrol officers who were standing behind her on the steps.

"Hey, what is this?" the man stammered, stunned by the action.

"You are being arrested for accessory to the murder of Tommy Kennedy," Sydney replied motioning for the officers to take the man to the patrol car that was parked on the curb

"I didn't do nothing to that kid," the man protested as he was led away.

"What's going on here?" a softer voice asked and Sydney turned to face the man's wife who had been rousted by the commotion.

"Your husband is being arrested for accessory to the murder of Tommy Kennedy."

"My husband didn't know anything about what Lucas was doing," the woman proclaimed the man's innocence.

"You husband knew that Lucas owned a cabin in nearby Dade county. His failure to disclose that information makes me believe he might also know where Mr. Andersen is."

"No," the woman gasp, her eyes widening as she stared at the patrol car where her husband was now sitting in the back seat. There was a look of panic on her face.

"Yes, Mrs. Williams, your husband is in serious trouble if he continues to protect his cousin. Right now my bosses back at headquarters are reassessing his role. We could be looking at some very serious charges, accessory to murder, especially the murder of a seven year old boy isn't something he wants to be charged with."

"That's a lie, all of it's a lie."

"No mam, with the information we have I could make the charges stick and the only thing that's going to help him is if he starts cooperating. It's the only way we are going to start believing that your husband isn't involved in the whole affair."

The woman looked terrified, her fearful eyes centred on the half dressed man who was slumped in the back seat of the police cruiser. She turned worried eyes on the blond detective.

"Can I talk to my husband?"

Bingo, Sydney thought to herself and struggled to keep the grin off her face. "Sure, go ahead."

Alex arrived early for work that morning. As usual her eyes automatically went to Sydney's desk and she felt a huge measure of disappointment when she saw that it was empty. After settling her briefcase in her office she ventured across the hallway to speak to the Lieutenant who was on duty during the night shift.

"Anything I should know about?" she asked casually scanning the nightly occurrence reports.

"Nope, it was pretty quiet," Lt. Howe said happy to be heading home. "Davis brought in Eddie Williams for interrogation on the Kennedy murder."

"I thought she cleared him of any involvement," Alex mused out loud, her eyes narrowing as a frown spread across her face.

"She thinks he knows more than he's saying. She got a fax from Canada about some cabin Andersen owns in the mountains. Apparently this guy knew about it," the Lt. said. "If you're interested she's got him in interrogation room number three."

"Thanks," Alex nodded and bidding the man a good day, wandered down the corridor towards the interrogation rooms. Sydney emerged from one of the rooms just as she approached.

"Hey," the Captain greeted the younger woman unable to keep the affection out of her voice.

"Hey yourself," Sydney's weary features suddenly lit up at the sight of the taller woman. She leaned forward and the two women bumped their foreheads together, their bodies needing that brief physical contact.

"How's it going?" Alex asked folding her arms across her chest in an attempt to restrain the urge to reach out and embrace the younger woman. She glanced over the smaller woman's shoulder into the room beyond where a half dressed man sat slumped in a chair.

"Good," the blond woman replied feeling quite pleased with herself despite the fatigue that was gnawing at her senses. "Got a call from the RCMP up in Vancouver. They found out that Lucas Andersen owns a cabin in nearby Dade County. I used a little motivation on Mr. Williams here to give us an exact diagram to its location. Apparently he has used it extensively in the past."

"You think Andersen is there?"

"It sounds like the perfect place to hide," Sydney shrugged. "Anyway I was just on my way to see about getting the necessary paperwork to go and have a look at the place."

"You'll need the local troopers help," Alex reminded thoughtfully.

"Yeah, I know a guy who works out there on the force. I was going to give him a call," the blond

woman hesitated. "I'll probably have to drive down there tomorrow right after my shift ends."

Alex was silent as she contemplated the situation. Tomorrow was Saturday and the day that they had set aside to move most of Sydney's things over to Alex's condo. She looked across at her lover and saw the pensive expression in the green eyes that were looking up at her.

"Tell you what, go make all the arrangements then go home and get some sleep," the Captain made the decision. "Tomorrow we'll drive out there together."

"Are you sure?" Sydney asked and Alex knew that the younger woman was referring to something besides the trip out of town.

"Yeah," the dark haired woman smiled easily giving her lover reassurance that she was okay with the situation. "Besides if you take this guy down you will need someone to help bring him in."

"Sounds like a good idea," the smaller woman agreed thankful that her lover wasn't upset.

"Now get going," Alex motioned before turning and beginning to walk away. "Call me later."

"Yes boss," Sydney gave her a mock salute.

It was a three hour drive to Dade County and they left Seattle as the first rays of dawn cracked the horizon. It was an unexpectedly clear day and Alex gazed over the scenery, marvelling at the beauty of nature that surrounded them. It was only January but everything was so rich and green, the dew on the grass sparkling under the brilliant caress of the sun. She glanced sideways at her companion, her heart swelling with emotion as a tiny grin etched its way across her lips.

They had left as soon as Sydney had booked off her regular shift and she had insisted on driving aware that her partner was tired after a long night of work. The small blond woman was now curled up in the passenger seat, her head resting on the window and her jacket pulled up tightly around her body. She looked so beautiful and innocent that Alex couldn't wait until she could wake up every morning and watch her partner sleep. She turned her attention back to the road.

It had taken repeated reassurances for her to convince the blond detective that she wasn't upset by the change in plans. She knew better then anyone else how their work would interfere in their lives.

Besides she knew how important this case was to the younger woman and she wouldn't let her own personal agenda affect the way the woman performed her job.

As it was, Sydney slept the whole way and then was profusely embarrassed when her companion finally woke her as they arrived at their destination. She ran her fingers through her loose hair a few times feeling the tingling of her skin. She glanced sideways at her partner.

"You should have woken me," she claimed.

"Why?" Alex wondered, her dark eyebrows raising in amusement. "You were tired, you needed the rest."

"But that left you all alone," the blond woman protested.

"I didn't mind," the Captain reassured her with a sincere smile. "It was a nice drive."

Sydney was reminded again of all the reason's that she loved this woman.

"I love you," she said simply.

"I know," Alex replied her smile broadening.

They met with the local authorities and established a plan of action before heading up the mountain on a remote logging road that led deep into the bush. The sense of anxious anticipation filled every member of the party as they stopped about a hundred yards from the cottage, parking behind a thick growth of new shrubbery.

Quietly they deplored in a circle around the property, silently closing in on the peaceful cottage which was perched on a slight ridge overlooking a small valley. The place looked vacant but they did not take any chances, cautiously sneaking up to the building.

Sydney took a couple of deep breaths, inhaling the chilly air into her lungs as she clutched the gun in her hand. Though it was a clear sky and the sun was shining brightly, the thick bush and fur trees cast a dim shadow over the place. She glanced across at Alex and nodded her head before creeping onto the porch and sidling up to the front door. She tapped loudly on the wood.

"This is the police, open up," she shouted so that there would be no mistaking her words. But only silence greeted her entreaty. She glanced at her partner and repeated her earlier announcement.

"I think it's empty," Alex said when there was no response and nodded towards the state trooper who had trailed their approach. They stepped back as the man hurried up the steps with the small battering ram that was used to gain entry to sealed locations.

The door craved easily against the assault and Alex and Sydney carefully slipped into cabin with their guns drawn. Much to their disappointment the place was empty, though a thorough search of the place revealed that it had been recently occupied.

"Thanks," Alex said, dismissing the State Troopers once they had collected all the evidence they could find. The men nodded before returning to their cruisers leaving the two women alone.

"What do you think?" the Captain asked wondering what was going through the blond detectives mind. The woman had been unusually quiet.

Sydney slumped onto one of the chairs and glanced with weary eyes around the place. It was a simple abode consisting of a single room. A set of bunk beds and an old sofa were the only furnishings besides the wooden table and chairs set in a corner. There was a fireplace along one wall and a hand pump at the sink to draw water.

"I think that Williams tipped him off," she answered in a sour voice.

"No, I don't think so," the taller woman disputed the suggestion. "Our suspect was here but there is enough dust in the place to suggest that it's been awhile."

"I don't care," the smaller woman spat, allowing some of her emotion to show. "I have no doubt he was here and if Williams had fessed up sooner we might have caught him. I think once we get back to the city I'm going to go over and rattle his cage. If he was anxious about going to jail before he better be plenty nervous about it now."

"No," Alex decided shaking her head. "We are going back to the city and you're going to leave it until Monday."

Sydney glanced up at her companion who had moved across the room and was now towering directly over her. She could see the look of caution in her lovers eyes and sighed. Until now she had been running on adrenalyn and the short catnap that she had snatched on the way down had not been enough to wipe away her fatigue. Numbly she nodded her head in assent.

"Come on love, let's go, we got everything we could from here," Alex said and held out her hand which the other woman reluctantly accepted, allowing her partner to help her up. They closed the door as they stepped out of the cabin and walked back towards where their car was parked, carrying the small box of evidence they had collected..

"Are you hungry? I think I saw a fairly decent looking restaurant in town."

"I could use something," the smaller woman mumbled and as if on cue her stomach rumbled. Alex chuckled.

"It will still be early once we get back to the city, maybe we can get some of my stuff moved over," Sydney suggested as they climbed into the car.

"No," the other woman shook her head. "When we get back you will rest and tomorrow we will take the day off and go to my parents."

"But...," the blond paused looking across at her companion uncertainly. She knew how anxious Alex was for her to move in and couldn't guess why she would now want to delay the process. Besides

after the last meeting she wasn't particularly eager to meet the Marshall's so soon again.

"You're not changing your mind about our living together are you?" she asked hesitantly still very insecure about her position in this woman's life.

"No, I want you to move in," Alex confirmed the truth, "but you're tired and need some time to relax. I'm not going to risk you getting sick from exhaustion."

Sydney was appreciative of the other woman's consideration and felt a warm rush of love sweep through her body. It had been a long time, perhaps to long, since anyone had consciously looked out for her best interests. She knew that Alex would always do that. That night they retired early, yet despite the restive sleep, she was still unprepared to visit her lover's parents.

The Marshall home was an ocean front property located on the outskirts of the city in an exclusive neighbourhood. It was a large place with a gated entrance that opened unto a curving drive that snaked through a tall stand of fur trees and ran parallel to an immaculately trimmed lawn.

The house was a three story affair built in the traditional colonial style with red bricks and huge white pillars. It sat in the middle of the property and behind it was a small rose garden and another lawn which sloped down to the beach where a dock had been installed and to which two boats were now tied.

To the right of the house was a four port garage and a large cement pad upon which a small basketball court had been set up. Sydney wasn't surprised to learn that Marie and Warren had designed the place themselves.

"It's huge," she marvelled to her companion, overwhelmed by the grandeur of the place and feeling a bit of anxiety return.

"Yeah well it had to be to fit us all in," Alex joked derisively about the families height, not certain what else to say. She had never thought much about where she had grown up. It had simply been home. She wondered how different it must feel to Sydney who had lived in apartments all her life.

The family was all there and Alex didn't doubt that her mother had summoned them specifically for the occasion. She wasn't worried about the reception her lover would receive from her family for they all had been raised with the strictest of manners and she knew neither of her parents would tolerate any other behaviour. Not that she was concerned for her brothers were all liberal minded and no one had given her grief about her lifestyle although she knew that two of her sister-in-laws were leery about spending any time with her.

Sydney listened attentively to all the introductions of the brothers, their wives and their assorted children. She wasn't certain she would remember all the names and the comment Christie had made in regards to height suddenly hit home. With the exception of the children she was the smallest one in the room, dwarfed in size by everyone else. It was all quite intimidating and she was glad for Alex's nearby presence.

"Are you Auntie Alex's girlfriend?" a small girl asked when they were finally seated at the table in the dinning room.

Sydney found herself between Alex and one of the older children, a delicate dark haired beauty with large brown eyes. She remembered the child's name was Kim and that she was the eldest of

Christie and Andrew's brood of three.

"Yes I am," she answered somewhat hesitantly uncertain that the situation had been explained to the child.

"Do you like her?" the girl asked seriously.

"A whole lot," Sydney smiled gently and the child responded with a smile of her own.

"I'm glad," the child pronounced and then studied her profile for a long moment before casting a fugitive glance around the table. She leaned over and Sydney automatically mimicked her actions listening carefully as the girl continued her observations in a conspiratorial whisper. "I think you're nice and a whole lot prettier than my other auntie's, except for Auntie Alex, who I think is very lucky to have you as a girlfriend."

"Thank you," Sydney stammered slightly stunned and embarrassed by the compliment.

"Are you okay?" Alex asked seeing the flush of colour on her lovers features.

"Yeah," the blond woman nodded. "But I think the rest of the world is in trouble. Your niece here is quite the charmer. She just told me that she thought I was nice and a whole lot prettier than her other aunties, with the exception of you of course."

"She's got that right," Alex chuckled and then glanced around her partner to look at the little girl who was watching them with fascination. She wagged a slender finger at her niece in mock warning a twinkle in her blue eyes. "Sydney's my girlfriend, don't you try to steal her away."

The child flushed but giggled and Sydney knew that if the rest of the day turned into a disaster at least she had made one friend. Somehow the child's acceptance did wonders for her confidence and she felt better about herself and the situation.

The meal was a casual affair with lots of noise and some stimulating conversations. It was nothing like what Sydney had imagined and she watched with fascination at the interchange between the various individuals. Everyone was given a chance to offer their opinion and their views were respected even though they might be in the minority.

Sydney was able to relax and enjoy herself and conversed easily with Christie who was sitting on the other side of her daughter though she was constantly aware of Mrs. Marshall sitting at the end of the table and watching.

Once the meal was over they retreated to the sitting room where a lively discussion about the local professional sports teams ensued. Sydney didn't know how it happened but suddenly she found herself in the midst of a sibling rivalry.

"Whoa, just a minute," she tried to stop her partner from accepting the challenge but instead felt a warm hand on her forearm. She turned to see Christie standing nearby with an amused grin on her features.

"Forget it dear, you haven't got a chance in hell of changing her mind," the taller blond woman said with a smile. The woman nodded towards the group of siblings. "I've never seen a more competitive bunch and Alex is the worst of them all. I think it comes from being the youngest and only girl. While growing up she had to compete with them in everything."

"Christie and I will go against Sydney and you," Andrew's voice carried over the others.

"You're on," Alex nodded rising from her chair.

"I don't think so. I'm not bounding around on court in this outfit," Christie interrupted, motioning to the delicate skirt she was wearing. She looked at Sydney and winked.

"Has this happened before?" Sydney whispered with curiosity.

"More times then I care to remember," the other woman sighed and then smiled leaning over and whispering only loud enough for her to hear. "That's why I took to wearing dresses to this casual affair."

"All right then take Charles," Alex offered her brother who stared at her with a gaping expression.

"Come on sis, nothing against you or Sydney but that's not really fair."

"Are you making a derogatory remark about Sydney and me?" Christie asked cryptically eyeing her husband critically.

"No, no, no.." Andrew quickly realized his mistake and he looked appealing at his wife. "No offense to anyone but both Charles and I played on NCAA teams in college."

"So did I," the tall blond reminded her husband with an arched eyebrow.

"Yeah, but come on honey you know you're not as good as Charles," the man tried to smoothen out the situation. "It wouldn't be fair, after all, no offense meant, but Sydney didn't even play college ball."

"No, but we're willing to take our chances," Alex said with a coy glance at her lover. "What kind of

bet shall we make? We both enjoyed those tickets to the Sonics, how about season tickets for next year?"

"That sounds reasonable and in return if we win you will pay for my season's tickets next year,"

Andrew said and Alex nodded.

Sydney watched as the two siblings shook hands in agreement. She glanced around the room and saw the smiles on the faces of the others and the triumphant look on the man's face. She wondered what her lover had gotten them into.

"Alex, do you know how much season ticket's to the Sonic's cost?" she hissed to her lover as the taller woman dragged her out of the room.

"Yeah," the Captain nodded with a glint in her eyes. "But I don't intend on paying for anybodies tickets."

"But if we lose..."

"We won't lose," the dark haired woman was confident and she saw the questioning look in her smaller companions eyes. She paused and pulled her into a quiet corner aware the others were grabbing their jackets to relocate outside to watch the contest. "You forget I am the only one who knows how everyone in this room plays. Andrew has never seen you play."

The implication of what the taller woman was implying sent a warm rush through her body and she shook her head and Alex chuckled quietly before bending her head and capturing her lips in a passionate kiss.

"You really think I'm that good?" she had to ask.

"We are that good," Alex corrected. "Separately we might not work out so well, but together we are an unbeatable team."

"What about clothes?" the smaller woman asked and received another chuckle.

"I've got our bags out in the jeep."

"You knew this was going to happen?" Sydney accused, placing her hands on her hips and trying to glare but unable to make it last.

"I had a hint," the other woman smiled and then reached over and ruffled her blond hair. "Come on let's get changed and show them our stuff."



Sydney walked around the small court bouncing and shooting the ball at the net to get comfortable. She glanced at Alex. The earlier amusement was gone replaced by a competitive look, one she recognized from their own games. She turned her head and looked at the two tall men who were warming up at the other end of the small court. She hoped that Alex was right. She had trusted her before and trusted her now.

Lawrence volunteered to act as referee and there was much playful jeering and ribbing when he called them to the center of the court to outline the rules. Then with a whistle and a toss up the game was on.

Despite the difference in height between the two teams it was a surprisingly even match with both sides exchanging baskets. It had been several years since either man had played a serious game yet their skill was such that Sydney realized they much have been excellent players in their younger years. However, she had an advantage over them and that was her quickness which Alex intelligently utilized.

There was goodnatured trash talk and comments that made the spectators on the sidelines laugh and cheer. By the time a short half time was called the score was even. Alex and Sydney stood together at the side of the court sipping from the pitcher of water that Kim had brought out from the house.

"Thank you," Sydney smiled her appreciation and the little girl blushed before rushing over to stand near her mother who was sitting in a lounge chair by the garage.

"You've made another conquest there," Alex chuckled and her lover blushed.

"It's a pretty tight game," the smaller woman commented changing the subject.

"Nah," the taller woman shook her head. "We were just warming up."

"Maybe you were but I'm playing as hard as I can," the blond woman shook her head. "Why are you so confident?"

"Because I know my brothers," the taller woman chuckled. "They may still have the skill but their out of shape. They have already started to tire."

"And you knew this?" the younger detective asked slyly.

Alex shrugged unable to stifle another chuckle. Playfully Sydney swatted her lovers arm which only resulted in the woman teasingly ruffling her blond hair.

"You are so bad."

"Hey, I can't help it their egos are so big that they think their still kids," the dark haired woman protested.

"They're not the only ones with a big ego."

"Are you implying I'm arrogant?" the Captain asked pretending to be offended.

"Cocky is a better word to describe you," Sydney snorted rolling her eyes. "Despite that, I don't know why you thought we could beat them."

"Because I believe in us," Alex said with a low voice and a seductive smile. "Charles and Andrew are two people playing together, but you and me, we are a team. A good team that will be together for a very long time."

"Is that a promise?"

"You bet."

"I love you," Sydney shook her head unable to keep the smile off her face and Alex laughed, wrapping her arms around the smaller woman and giving her a tight embrace allowing all the love she felt to flow through to her partner.

Marie pulled the edges of her coat more tightly together. Normally she didn't come out to watch these sibling challenges but she had been curious. She knew her husband encouraged these friendly matches believing it built character.

"I think Andrew bit off more then he could chew this time," the older man chuckled and his wife looked at him curiously.

"You really think Alex and her friend will win?"

"Yes," Warren smiled feeling pride for his only daughter. "Sydney is a good player and she has been handling Charles very well. Alex and her make a good team, they compliment each other."

Marie said nothing turning her attention back to the game which was under way once more. She was not a big sports fan but because it had been a huge part of her children's lives she had learned to follow the game. She watched critically thinking about what she knew and what her husband had said. It was true the two women played well together, instinctively knowing where the other would be on the court. Once again she felt a pang of jealousy.

She was proud of Alex. She had always been proud of the girl's accomplishments even though she had hoped so often that she would choose a much different path in life. She had always had such hopes for her only daughter and the most crushing blow had come when Alex had announced that she was gay.

It had been the last blow to their relationship and though she tried to remain positive about the whole situation, it hurt. She could not help wonder what she had done wrong or if there was something she could have done differently. It was hard for her to discount the idea that she was to blame somehow.

She dismissed her thoughts and concentrated on the game

Sydney didn't think she had the energy to keep up with the others but as the game continued she felt herself growing stronger as she kept pace with her tall companion who clearly had reserves that no one else possessed. More then once she fed her lover a pass and then watched in awe as Alex pulled some graceful move to get passed her brothers and sink a basket. It was easy to tell that her partner thrived on this type of competition.

"How you doing?" Alex asked sauntering over after completing a perfectly executed lay-up.

"I'm still hanging in there," Sydney smiled in awe of her companion and the taller woman laughed bumping her hip gently against the smaller woman as she took up her position.

Marie witnessed the intimate exchange and caught her breath realizing something that she had missed at their earlier meeting. She could see it, just as she had seen it in the restaurant, an invisible energy between the two that bound them together in a special way. There were the intimate glances and tender smiles that they cast at each other. It was like watching two people who were very much in love and the older woman was enlightened in a way that she had not understood until now.

She had worried that Alex had more emotionally invested in this relationship but she suddenly had the faint suspicion that it was the other way around. She felt ashamed of the way she had treated the girl and hoped that she had a way of making it up.

By the time Lawrence finally blew the whistle the two women were more then a few points up and in celebration Alex enveloped her companion in a huge embrace kissing her lover soundly on the lips, uncaring that everyone was watching. The women watching blushed while the men laughed.

"Congratulations girls," Warren sauntered over and gave both young women a hug and a wink. "I won fifty bucks off Lawrence."

"Is that all you people do is bet?" Sydney asked shaking her head in wonder.

"It makes everything more interesting," the older man laughed and hugged his daughter again. "You girl's make a good team. I hope you don't plan on breaking up this combination any time soon."

"No, dad," Alex smiled placing a possessive arm around her smaller companion. "I intend keeping her around for as long as she will have me."

"Good," the man clapped them both on the back before turning to go talk to his defeated sons who were sheepishly approaching them.

"You snookered me sis," Andrew extended his hand and the taller woman clasp it to ensure that there were no hard feelings over the contest. He turned to Sydney. "I should have known something was up when Alex was so eager to accept my challenge. She doesn't play unless she figures she can win. Sorry I misjudged you, you're a damn fine player."

"I have a good partner," the smaller woman glanced up at her lover whose eyes were shining.

"It wasn't just her," the man assured them. "I've watched Alex play for years and believe me, she

has never played better then she is now. I think that is due to your influence, you really seem to anticipate her moves, better than I ever could."

Sydney flushed at the praise and buried her face in her lovers chest. Alex laughed and wrapped her arms around the smaller woman squeezing her tightly and lifting her off the ground.

"You know sis, I had reservations about Sydney and you," Andrew admitted later once they were back inside the house. They had showered and changed out of their gym clothes and were now waiting around for lunch to be served. "I didn't think she was good enough for you but I don't think I've ever seen you like this."

"She brings the best out of me," Alex said quietly, barely able to hide the hurt she felt at her brothers admission.

"You look really good together," he continued not realizing his error and then chuckled. "Hell, I've never seen you give anyone as many hugs as you have today. What happened to 'take a look but don't touch'?"

"She changed that," his sister breathed.

"I can see that," Andrew smiled and then did something he would have never dared do before. He leaned over and gave her a hug. "Good game sis, I'll have the tickets sent over, but don't think we're done. I want a rematch."

"Anytime," Alex smiled. "Oh and I don't want tickets in the nosebleed section."

This time it was the man's turn to chuckle as he wandered away. Her smile grew wider as she watched her brother intercept Sydney by giving her a huge hug, lifting her high off the ground. She was happy that her family seemed to accept her lover. It was something that she really wanted.

"Andrew wasn't the only one who deserves to apologize," Alex turned to see her mother standing only a few paces away. She hadn't known the older woman was there. "It seemed I misjudged your relationship as well."

"Oh?" the younger woman stiffened not certain to what her mother was referring and the older woman looked a little surprised.

"Sydney didn't tell you about our little talk at the restaurant?"

"No," Alex shook her head and watched as her mother took a deep breath. Marie wished she had kept her mouth shut but she had expected the girl to say something.

"When we were in the bathroom together, I didn't behave very nicely towards her," the older woman admitted the truth. "She didn't deserve that. I think I took my jealousy out on her."

"Jealousy?" Alex was stunned and she glanced over her shoulder to where Sydney was engaged in an animated conversation with her older brothers. She turned back to her mother.

"Yes," the older woman sighed. "I've always wanted a closer relationship with you but for some reason that never happened. Then I saw you with Sydney and I was jealous because she was closer to you then I could ever be."

"We're lovers mom," the younger woman reminded in a slightly embarrassed voice.

"You are more than that," Marie disagreed. "You are friends. You have more in common with each other then we ever had and I guess that's what made me feel like I had lost you completely."

"I'm not going anywhere and.." Alex paused glancing briefly at her smaller lover. "I know that Sydney would appreciate having a mother. She hasn't really ever had one and I think she misses that."

"I'm not certain she would trust me now," the older woman was honest. "That night in the bathroom she was thanking me for telling you to follow your heart and I rewarded her by warning her not to break your heart. I'm not sure anyone could forgive that."

"You would be surprised how forgiving Sydney could be," the taller woman disagreed. "When our relationship first began I treated her miserably but she forgave me and now I'm glad that she did."

"So am I," Marie was sincere noticing that the other woman was slowly making her way towards them. "I better go and see if lunch is ready."

"Before you do that, why don't you apologize to Sydney," Alex suggested softly reaching out to put a hand on her mothers bare arm. Marie looked up at her daughter and saw how important it was to her child. She nodded and waited for the other woman to reach them taking a deep breath to steady her nerves.

"Congratulations," she said with a small smile as the blond woman joined them. "You played very well."

"Not as well as Alex," Sydney gave her lover a glowing look and then glanced at the older woman. "But thank you."

"I just told Alexandria that I owe you an apology," Marie continued, aware of the way her daughters arm snaked so naturally around the smaller woman's shoulders. "You didn't deserve the way I treated you that night at the restaurant. I promised I would never interfere in any of my children's lives and that's exactly what I did."

"That's all right," the smaller woman bit anxiously down on her lower lip shifting nervously from one foot to the other. She didn't have the courage to look at her lover. "I understand how you must feel and I know that you love Alex very much."

"I think you do too," Marie said then turned and walked away. Silence followed her retreat and then quietly Alex turned her lover around so that they were looking at each other.

"How come you didn't say anything about what happened in the restaurant?" the taller woman wanted to know.

"I didn't think it was important," she sighed running a hand through her blond hair. "And I thought it might upset you. It wasn't really a big deal. She was just looking out for you."

"And it's my job to look out for you," the dark haired woman said seriously. "I want to know if anyone treats you badly, especially if it's my family. Promise me that next time something happens you will tell me."

"Next time something happens I'll tell you," the smaller woman replied and Alex gave her a hug.

"You feel like coming over to my place and watching a movie?"

"Throw in some popcorn and you have a deal," Sydney grinned.

Several hours later the two women were curled up on the couch in the den with the smaller woman nestled against her taller companion and a huge bowl of popcorn perched on her stomach. They had changed into their sleepwear before popping the video into the machine. After some debate they had settled on watching a romantic comedy.

"Thanks."

"For what?" Alex wondered snatching a handful of popcorn out of the bowl.

"For inviting me along with you today," Sydney said. "I really enjoyed myself."

"It was a pretty good day," the taller woman chuckled. "We're going to have a good time next year."

"You aren't really going to make him pay up are you?" the blond was surprised.

"Damn straight I am," Alex growled and her companion laughed.

"You're as bad as your father said you were," Sydney said shaking her head as she popped another cornel of popcorn in her mouth feeling her companions body rumble with another chuckle. "I really like your family."

The taller woman was silent for a long moment and then suddenly the bowl was gone, placed on the coffee table. Before the blond woman knew what was happening she was grabbed by the shoulders and turned to face her companion.

"They're not just my family anymore," she said softly as their eyes met and held. "They're your family now too Sydney."

The younger woman didn't know what to say so she did the only thing she knew how to convey the emotion she felt. She leaned forward and kissed her partner and in response she was quickly drawn into a tight embrace.

All in all the day had turned out better than either of the women expected and that night they went back to the condo and spent the evening watching movies and eating popcorn before retiring aware that Alex had to be in at the office early the next morning.



Chapter Nine



By the end of February Sydney was comfortably settled into the condo and the transition from living alone to sharing space went smoother then either woman expected. It helped that they shared the same commitment towards each other which made it easier for them to talk about their irritations before they turned into major problems.

They also developed a smooth routine at work whereby they were discreet about their relationship but did nothing to hide the fact that they were friends. Often Sydney would come in early for an evening shift so that they could play a game of one on one on the court at the station house. When she was on the midnight shift she would wait for Alex to arrive in the morning and together they would go running before she would head off home to sleep.

Both women enjoyed the time they spent together and their relationship deepened to a point where they individually came to the realization that they couldn't live without the other. For the first time Sydney began to believe that it was possible to have a family unit that worked.

"You look happy sis," Anne commented one afternoon when the blond woman made the trip to the state prison to visit her sister. The detective had made the journey several times since Christmas.

"I am happy," Sydney was honest.

"I take it that you're still involved with that woman."

"Her name is Alex, and yes, we're still involved, in fact we're living together," the younger woman was honest.

"Next thing I know you'll be telling me you're going to have some kids," Anne said with a smirk and Sydney blushed.

"We haven't talked about it...but I think we both would like children...some day."

"You're really serious about this aren't you?" the other woman seemed almost amused. "I remember a time when you wanted nothing to do with the family thing."

"I didn't think I was meant to have that," the blond woman confessed, "but I always wanted a family, a regular mom and dad with a nice house in the suburbs."

The confession didn't really surprise the older woman because she had sensed that desire in her younger sibling all along. There was a time when she had hoped to give her baby sister all those things but she had never been strong enough.

"I'm glad you're getting all that kid," she was sincere.

"And I'm glad that you're not mad at me any more," Sydney said and the other woman flushed.

"I wasn't so much angry as I was jealous," Anne confided reluctantly. "I always liked to believe that I was the strongest one in the family and that you needed me to look out for you, but it turned out the other way around."

"It can change," Sydney said tentatively. "You won't be in here forever. When you get out you can make a new life."

"I've heard all the stories kid," the prisoner smiled wearily, "but I'm afraid once you've been in this place it's pretty hard to leave that behind. I don't think I'm strong enough to resist the temptations."

"You won't be alone," the younger woman said quietly. "You will have Alex and me to help you."

"Thanks, I appreciate the offer kid," the older woman smiled but knew she would never accept the overture. Sydney had built a good life for herself and she didn't need someone to mess that up.



By the time Alex returned to the station it was late in the afternoon but she was feeling pretty good. She had just finished a productive meeting with the other department heads at the downtown Precinct and was anxious now to see her lover before heading home for the night. Sydney was working the evening shift that week.

"How'd the visit with your sister go?" she asked, giving her companion a lengthy hug after determining they were alone in the women's change room.

"Good," the smaller woman sighed. "I worry about her though."

"Why?" Alex's eyes narrowed.

"I think she's kind of given up on life," Sydney confided. "She only has four years to go before she's eligible for parole and yet she has this fatalistic opinion that she will be behind bars the rest of her life."

"She's probably scared, not wanting to let herself think about the future, just in case things don't work out," the taller woman tried to be practical. "It's not unusual for the parole board to turn down a first request."

"Yeah I know," the younger woman sighed, tentatively biting down on her lower lip and glancing slyly at her companion. "I told her that when she got out we would be there for her. I hope that was all right."

"Yes," Alex's smile was reassuring. It pleased her to know that Sydney was thinking of them together in the future.

The blond detective smiled and gave her partner another hug, realizing again why it was that she loved this woman so much. There wasn't any further opportunity for them to talk privately as a patrol

officer came to use the facilities. They stepped out into the hallway.

"Don't forget to stop at the grocery store on the way home, we're out of coffee and milk," Sydney reminded her lover.

"I will," Alex promised heading for the door. "Have a good night and don't forget to call me later."

"I will," the blond detective agreed with a smile and then watched her tall partner disappeared out the door. The phone on her desk rang and she picked it up. It was Alice Williams.

"My husband just received a call from Lucas," the woman's voice was barely intelligible and the young detective instinctively knew that the woman didn't want her husband to know she was calling. "He's staying at an apartment downtown."

Sydney listened silently grabbing a pen and jotting down the number that the woman gave her before quickly hanging up. She immediately dialled the operator and after revealing her identity she managed to get a fixed address. After a few more phone calls to iron out the details she was ready to move on this information.

"He's going by the name of Simon Le Bond," she told her colleagues as they headed for the door.

"Like the singer," Roy mused.

"Yep," Sydney nodded strapping on her bullet proof vest and glancing at the other men. "Aren't you guys going to put on your vests?"

"I have never worn one in my entire career and I'm not starting now," Norm said solemnly. "Besides the guy's a child killer and it's not likely he will try to hurt anyone. Knocking off innocent kids is more his style."

Sydney nodded having a tendency to agree with the man but Alex had issued a memo regarding the matter and then extracted a solemn promise from her that whenever she went out on a take-down she would wear one for protection. It was a cumbersome piece of equipment and hot but she had no intention of incurring the wrath of her lover.

They made a brief stop at the court house to secure the appropriate warrant and then rode in silence to the address the operator had given her, parking down the block to prevent alerting the suspect to their presence. Sydney was pleased to see that her friend Robert Newlie was amongst the patrol drivers sent to help with the arrest.

She directed the uniformed officers to take up positions surrounding the block before leading the way into the run-down apartment and up the stairs to the fifth floor. The number on the door at the top of the steps revealed that it was the room they were looking for. She motioned for the other men to take up positions and then knocked on the door.

"Mr. Andersen this is the police, open up the door," she called knocking loudly. There was no response. "Open up Mr. Andersen this is the Police."

"Let's break in," Norm decided and then lifted his leg and displaying a strength that shocked his colleagues, kicked the door in before entering.

Sydney followed more cautiously, her gun drawn, alert to the possibility of danger. Regardless of how

harmless they thought a suspect might be, they had to be careful not to under estimate their quarry. She peered cautiously around the front room and then down the corridor that led to the back of the suite. It was instinct more then anything else that made her react. She didn't see more then a shadow but the hair on the back of her neck rose in fear.

"He's got a gun," she shouted and then flung herself in front of Norm as a tall thin man stepped into corridor from a room at the end of the hallway and pressed the trigger on the gun he held. She fired her own weapon in response.

The sound of a shotgun blast filled her ears only to be drowned out by a roar of noise as the place seemed to erupt in hail of gunfire. That was followed by loud shouting and the acid smell of smoke until finally silence reigned once more.

Sydney felt a burning pain in her body that stretched from her hips to her neck. She felt funny and she tried to lift herself up off the floor but her head hurt and she was dizzy, besides there seemed to be blood everywhere.

"Sydney!"

There was panic in the voice that called her name and she tried to turn her head to respond but the effort was to great. She saw a uniformed officer kneeling over her and recognizing her old friend Robert Newlie, she tried to smile but then her vision went blurry before she tumbled into a well of darkness.



Alex had just gotten back from her run and was about to head into the shower when the phone rang. She glanced at the clock with a smile on her lips. If she guessed correctly it was Sydney calling to make sure she had stopped at the market on the way home. She lifted the receiver expecting to hear her lovers voice on the other end.

"Captain?"

"Yes," she recognized the voice of the Lieutenant Scarferelli.

"There's been a shooting," the man said and immediately Alex felt a wave of panic rush through her body. She willed herself to remain calm thinking of Sydney but realizing it could be any number of things.

"What happened?" she remained businesslike.

"Detectives Davis, Bridges and Howard went on a take-down. Apparently Syd got a tip as to where Lucas Andersen was hiding. They went in and according to the uniforms present there were shots fired."

"Was anyone hurt?" she asked in a calm voice even though her senses were screaming to know what happened. There was a long pause.

"All three were hit," the Lieutenant on the other end said and then continued in a rush. "The Sergeant in charge of the scene didn't relay the extent of their injuries other then to say that they have all been transported to City General."

"What about the suspect?"

"Apparently he was killed in the exchange."

"I want you to get down there immediately and take charge of the situation. I want the entire scene secured. What's the address?" She hastily scribbled the location down an the nearest scrape of paper. "Okay, I'll see you in a bit."

"Yes Captain," the Lieutenant said before hanging up.

Alex stared for a long moment at the receiver before she put it down with a trembling hand. She closed her eyes and took several deep breaths in an attempt to steady the beat of her heart. She always knew that something like this could happen yet she had pushed it from her mind.

"You can't leave me, not when we just found each other," she breathed as hot tears slid down her face.

It took another moment before she reigned in her emotions and then rushed to the bedroom and snatched up her clothes. Everything was forgotten but her need to get to the hospital yet her first stop was at the crime scene which was cordoned off by a multitude of patrol cars. She was greeted by the officer in charge and quickly led up to the apartment.

It was a harder experience then she had ever imagined and she felt only hatred for the man who lay slumped in the corridor covered in blood. She felt no pity for the dead man, her emotions hardened by the sight of blood that filled both ends of the corridor knowing that some of it was Sydney's.

"What happened?" she asked when Lieutenant Scarfirelli made his way to her side. The man shifted nervously. Though no one said anything, they all knew of the Captain's relationship with the young female detective.

"Apparently when the suspect didn't respond to their summons they entered the premises. According to the little information we were able to get from the detectives before they were taken away, Det. Davis saw the man and then flung herself in front of Det. Bridges firing as she went. Her shots stuck the accused but not before he was able to discharge his weapon several times."

"Did they have the proper warrants?" Alex wanted to know realizing that a lot of hard questions would be asked before this situation went away. There would be more then one investigation as a result of what happened here tonight. She had seen this same scenario more than once.

"They had all the proper documents," came the reply and the Captain felt a measure of relief over that.

"I want the scene thoroughly investigated," she instructed in a clipped tone. "Shots were fired and the suspect was killed. I want to make sure that the collar was being handled by the book."

"What if it wasn't?" the man asked quietly.

"Then I want to know about it," she said tersely.

"The man was a suspect in the death of a child," the Lieutenant reminded softly and received a cool glance from his superior.

"I don't care if he was John Gacy himself," she retort in a cold voice, all to aware of the ramifications.

She could already see the headlines in the morning paper. The news would report that a suspect was shot and killed during an arrest. The fact that the arresting officers were also injured would be almost ignored. She was certain that some do-gooder would have a criticism of the police's actions ready for the afternoon byline.

"Yes, mam," the Lieutenant nodded and then barked out a series of instructions to the uniformed officers standing nearby.

Alex glanced around once more and then without waiting for further information she turned and stalked out of the room. Her stomach churned violently and she was just barely able to get out of the building before she throw up in a nearby garbage can. She had seen much more violent crime scenes and never reacted like this but this was the first time it was personal.

"Are you okay Captain?" a uniformed officer nearby asked with genuine concern.

"Yes," she nodded feeling slightly ashamed. She could not say that the sight of her lovers blood had made her ill so she merely continued to her car. Twenty minutes later she was at the hospital.

"I need to know the status of several of my officers who were just brought in," Alex flashed her badge at the nurse manning the admitting desk in the emergency ward.

The intense expression on the tall dark haired woman's face told the nurse to comply and she nodded before picking up a phone and dialing a number. Within minutes a young man in a white medical coat came out of a room behind the desk.

"My name is Doctor Riverira, how can I help you?"

"I need to know the status of several of my officers who were just brought into emergency," Alex said crisply. "They were wounded and I need to know the extent of their injuries."

"Detectives Howard and Bridges will be all right, they received only minor wounds," the doctor relayed the information having been in charge of the trauma units that worked on the officers who were brought into the ER only an hour ago. "However, Detective Davis' injuries were much more serious.

It's probably better that I speak with her family first."

Alex's whole body tensed at his words. Her emotions wavered between fear and anger. It was painfully obvious that Sydney was badly hurt. She looked at the doctor struggling to control her emotions.

"Detective Davis doesn't have any family in the city," she said abruptly.

"Then you might want to call them in," the doctor sighed. "She received several shot gun blasts to her body. We managed to stabilize her before rushing her up to surgery. She's there now being operated on. The situation doesn't look good."

"Where is surgery?" Alex demanded, her whole body feeling cold.

"Fifth floor," the man answered and without waiting for more the Captain was stalking down the hall in the direction of the elevators. She found Roy Howard sitting quietly in the waiting room outside the operating theatres. There was a small bandage on his neck and cheek.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah," he nodded unable to meet her gaze. "She saved our lives. She saw him before either of us did and threw herself in the line of fire."

The rest was left unsaid and Alex was momentarily rendered speechless. She had always known that her companion was brave and selfless and today her actions had once again proven that point.

"Is someone coming for you?" Alex asked quietly.

"My wife is on her way down," he said quietly. "I told her I was all right but she insisted on coming. If it's all right I'd like to stay until I know that Sydney is okay."

The Captain merely nodded not trusting herself to speak aware that her heart hurt to much. She turned and stared down the corridor towards the glass doors that separated them from the operating theatres. She knew how things worked, she had been through this scenario before. The doctor would be out when he was done so all she could do until then was wait.

The hours dragged by and the waiting room slowly filled up, as officers no longer on duty stopped by to offer their solidarity. She was appreciative of their presence for she knew of the close fraternity they were in. But their show of support did little to help the pain she felt. It was so intense at times she thought she couldn't breath.

It was well after midnight before the doctors walked out through the doors that led to the operating theatres. The head surgeon detached himself from the others and walked steadily towards them. Alex felt her heart jump into her throat at the expression on his face as he looked over the crowd waiting in the room.

"Is there any family here for Miss Sydney Davis?" he asked glancing around the room.

"I'm family," Alex said without a second thought, bravely straightening her shoulders and following the man over to a private corner.

"I'm not going to candy coat this," the doctor said when they were alone. "She's damn lucky to be alive. If she hadn't been wearing her vest she would be dead now, as it was fragments of the shotgun shells found there way into her neck and lower torso, areas where the vest didn't protect."

With his hand he indicated the parts of the body that had been struck as he continued to speak. "A fragment nicked the artery in her neck and it was only the fast response by those on the scene

that saved her from bleeding out. We managed to remove all the bullet fragments but she has lost allot of blood and her wounds are very serious. It will be touch and go for the next forty eight hours."

"Can I see her?"

"She's in post op right now and heavily sedated. We will be moving her into the ICU in about half an hour. Wait until she's settled in and then you can go up," the doctor advised and she nodded, thanking him before he left.

She took a deep breath and walked back towards the waiting room, realizing that sometimes her job really sucked. In a voice that was unnaturally calm she passed the information along to those officers who were waiting for news.

"The doctors won't know any more until later so you might as well go home, there's nothing you can do now," she said and wearily the others nodded and without another word they silently filed out of the room leaving her alone.

For a moment she slumped against the wall and then closed her eyes gulping desperately for air as she struggled to remain in control aware that she was perilously close to breaking down. She stood like that for a long while before she regained her composure, straightening up, reminding herself that she had duties to perform.

She found Norm Bridges in a bed on a general ward at the other end of the hospital. She could see a bandage on his shoulder but other then that he looked okay. He wasn't alone when she arrived and for that she was grateful uncertain that she would have been able to contain her composure.

"How are you feeling?" she asked nodding briefly to the woman and young man who were sitting on chairs by the bed. She guessed that they were his family.

"Like shit," the man was honest, unable to meet her eyes. "How's Sydney?"

"Critical," Alex said quietly. "She was just wheeled out of the OR and the doctors say the next forty eight hours are critical."

There was an awkward silence as the man digested this information. Though no one said anything he was aware of the relationship that existed between the two women. He, at least partially, blamed himself for what happened.

"She saved me," he said quietly with shame. "She knew I wasn't wearing a vest. She kidded me about that when we left the station this evening."

"Well, it's lucky she was," Alex breathed suppressing the anger she felt. "I'm glad you're all right."

There was nothing else to say. It wasn't the right time to address the issue regarding his failure to follow policy. She had sent out a memo instructing all officers to wear a vest during a take-down and it was obvious that this man had failed to follow the procedure and because of that Sydney lay unconscious and close to death. She suspected that he had learned his lesson and wouldn't need the required reprimand.

Alex checked on the surgical ward to ensure that Sydney had been transferred to a private room in the ICU ward before making her way down to that floor. She stopped at the nurses station to find out which room her lover had been put in.

"Are you a relative?" the middle aged woman at the desk asked briskly barely looking up from the papers she was shuffling.

"No," Alex said absently.

"I'm sorry but only relatives are allowed in to visit," the nurse continued in the same brisk voice.

There was something about the nurses manner that made the tall woman lose control of the last shreds of her patience. She slammed her hand on the top of the desk drawing startled eyes to her face.

"I am only going to say this once so you better understand it the first time," the Captain's voice was terse. "I am not in anyway related to Miss Davis, however, we live together and if the laws of our state where different we would be married and I would be considered her spouse."

She paused to allow her words to have there desired affect. "Now that you understand our relationship I would like to know the number of Miss Davis' room."

"I am sorry but hospital policy forbids us from allowing anyone but family members in to visit patients while they are in the ICU ward," the nurse shook her head seeming unconcerned with being compassionate.

"Fuck hospital policy," Alex slammed her hand down on the desk top again. "If you aren't going to let me in to see my friend I will just go and find her room by myself."

"Then I'm afraid Miss that I will have to call security," the nurse was unbending.

"You call security and then you see what kind of trouble you'll have," the Captain replied seethingly.

"What's the problem here?" a reasonable voice interrupted and both women turned to see an older man in a white coat step up to the desk. The nurse looked relieved.

"Dr. Walsh, I was just trying to explain to this woman here that only relatives are allowed into the ICU ward."

"Who is it you wish to see?" the grey haired man asked patiently seeing the strain on the younger woman's face.

"Detective Sydney Davis," Alex said through clenched teeth, her patience strained by the lack of compassion exhibited by these hospital administrators. "My name is Alexandria Marshall."

"If you don't mind me asking what is your relationship to the detective?" the doctor questioned aware that the name was faintly familiar.

"We are lovers," the Captain said without embarrassment. The man nodded and then turned to the nurse.

"I don't see any problem with letting. Miss Marshall in to see Det. Davis," the doctor said and the nurse looked at him for a moment before pursing her lips together.

"Room 351."

"Thank you," Alex said through clenched teeth before strolling purposefully down the corridor. The hospital staff watched the tall woman for a moment.

"I hope we don't get into trouble for disregarding policy," the nurse said briskly not appreciating the doctors interference.

"I think we have just saved ourselves a lot of trouble," the doctor replied calmly returning the file he was holding to the rack on the desk. "If I'm not wrong Alexandria Marshall is related to the same Marshall's who are on the Hospital's Board of Directors."

Without another word the man turned and strolled away from the desk leaving the nurse to stare after him with wide eyes and gaping mouth, suddenly aware of how close she might have come to losing her job.

Sydney's room was at the far end of the corridor and Alex paused at the doorway hoping to calm her senses before entering. She stood there, staring through the door at the slight form now wrapped in bandages and hooked up to various monitors that beeped and belched out information regarding her lovers condition.

She had foreseen such a long and brilliant future for them but it appeared now it might never happen.

It was a sobering thought but she had never given the dangerous nature of their job a second thought. The possibility was always there but she had always felt immune. Even with the numerous times she had drawn her gun she had never killed anyone. Hastily she brushed away the tears that collected in her eyes.

She slowly made her way into the room, her eyes fixed on the still form lying on the bed. She pulled up a chair and then sat down, gently curling her fingers around the small hand that was laying on top of the white sheets.

"They say you are supposed to talk to those who are unconscious, to help them get better," she said with a raspy voice a tired smile touching the edges of her lips. "Unfortunately they didn't know that I don't talk much, but I would do anything for you Sydney. I guess I don't tell you that enough, just like I've never really told you what I hope for the future."

She paused and took a deep breath. "I never thought I would find anyone that I wanted to spend my life with. I saw what my parents shared and what my brothers had and I wanted that but I didn't think I would ever have the same thing. I convinced myself that because of who I was and what I was, it would never be a possibility and I don't think it would have been if I hadn't met you."

She paused again reaching up to stroke the bare arm with her free hand no longer hearing the electronic machines that broke the stillness of the room.

"I have been in love with you from the first moment I saw you and from that moment my priorities have changed. I thought I would be happy staying on the Police force until I could take my twenty five year pension but now I want to move on with my life. I want to provide a nice home for you and I want to have children with you."

Alex reached up and tenderly combed the blond bangs off of the small woman's forehead. She allowed her hand to caress the soft skin for a long moment savouring the feel of the woman.

"I wish you were awake to hear this, of course I probably wouldn't have the courage to say it if you were. But even if I don't say anything I think you know how much I love you and how much I need you, so rest for awhile and then come back to me okay love."

Alex fell silent then and rested her head on the bed her forehead touching the small hand, feeling it's warmth. She closed her eyes and let the tears flow.

"Captain?"

Her name was tentatively called and Alex hastily lifted her head and brushed away the tears that were cascading down her cheeks. She took a deep breath and turned to face the intruder, recognizing Sgt. Newlie.

"Yes, Sgt. what can I do for you?"

"I just came to see how Syd was doing," the man said quietly stepping into the room his eyes on the still face of his young friend.

"She's stable but in critical condition," Alex said trying to compose herself aware how it must look to this man. "You're a friend of Sydney's aren't you?"

"One of the few she's got," the man nodded with a slight smile. "I was her first partner and we've just stuck together since then."

"Then you know everything about her?"

"Pretty much," the man agreed, shifting uncomfortably on his feet, aware they were entering an awkward territory.

"Did she tell you about us?" the woman wondered.

"She didn't have too," the Sergeant admitted with a nervous chuckle. "I knew she had it bad for you the day I had to drag her out of Rourke's drunk. She told me she was reprimanded by her boss. I knew something was up because it never bothered her before when she was reprimanded."

"Oh," the woman said and then glanced at the woman laying unconscious on the bed. "She means everything to me."

"I know," the man nodded solemnly.

Alex was silent. She looked across at him no longer hiding her emotions. She saw the blood stains on his uniform and then realized a truth without being told.

"You saved her life," the Captain said quietly. "The doctor told me that the officers on the scene saved her."

"We just did the same thing she would have done for anybody else," the man brushed aside the praise.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome," the man nodded shyly. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

"No but there is something you can do for Sydney," she said and the man listened quietly to her request, staying only a few more minutes before taking his leave.



Anne wondered what kind of trouble she was in. It was unusual to be brought to the Warden's office in the middle of the night and she knew something had to be up. She wondered if someone had implicated her in some scheme. There was always some kind of scam going on in the joint and someone always looking to get a few credits by ratting the others out.

"Sit down," the red headed warden instructed once she had entered the office. The prisoner glanced at the two guards who had accompanied her and then did as she was requested. She looked at the older woman, Warden Hayes was fair but her discipline was strict.

"We had a call from the Seattle Police Department," the Warden began deciding to be blunt. There was no easy way to say this, no way to soften the blow. Anne Davis was a hardened criminal but she still felt compassion for the woman under the circumstances. "It seems that last night during an arrest your sister was shot."

Anne took a deep breath and held it, her body going very still as her mind raced over their last conversation. It had only been that afternoon and the kid had been so happy.

"Is she dead?" she was barely able to mouth the words, overwhelmed by the pain she felt.

"No, she's still alive but in critical condition at Seattle General," the Warden said. "The SPD has promised to keep me updated as to her condition."

Anne nodded and stood up, her mind reeling with the knowledge that Sydney had been shot. She had realized it could happen yet she had always thought the kid was smart enough to avoid getting tagged.

"It's a little ironic don't you think," the other woman said as the prisoner turned to leave. Anne looked back at her and saw that there was no expression on the Warden's face. "You are in here for shooting a police office and your sister, who is a police officer, is shot. I guess that old saying is right, what goes around, comes around."

Anne remained mute afraid to think that her actions had somehow shaped her sisters destiny. She knew that Sydney had been devastated by her crime and maybe that was the reason the younger woman had become a cop. In that respect it was ironic.



The darkness gave way to dawn and a brilliant stream of light filtered through the window bathing both women in its luminous glow. Alex lifted her head, shifting her gaze from her lovers face for an instant to gaze at the new day. She hoped that it would bring with it a new hope.

"You should go home and get some rest," a nurse said when she came in to check the IV's and the monitors. "It will probably be hours before she regains consciousness."

Alex knew the woman was right. It might be hours or days before Sydney regained consciousness but she couldn't risk leaving the blond woman alone, afraid she might awaken to an empty room. After the experience she had suffered Alex didn't want the woman left alone. However, she did stand up and stretch her stiff muscles while the nurse moved around the bed to check the bandages.

It was midmorning before Sydney received her next set of visitors and Alex was stunned to see her parents walk into the room. It was a comfort seeing them and she rushed to her father feeling safe in his strong arms. Marie watched in silence as her daughter sobbed quietly.

"It will be all right dear," Warren consoled, though a glance at the still woman on the bed did not give him any reason to believe those words. For his daughters sake he had to trust that they would be true.

"When was the last time you had something to eat?" Marie asked practically when her child stopped crying.

"Lunch yesterday," Alex said realizing that she hadn't had a chance to eat before she left the apartment the previous evening. Once the call had come she had forgotten everything else.

"Then go with your father and get something," the older woman said and then held up her hand when the taller woman made to protest. "I will stay here in case she wakes up. You need to eat dear, you can't afford to get sick now, Sydney will need you when she wakes up and gets out of here."

Alex saw the wisdom of her mothers' words though she was hesitant to leave her lovers side.

"Your mothers right," Warren prodded his daughter gently and suddenly Alex felt incredibly weary and gave in nodding mutely.

"We'll be in the cafeteria if anything changes," the Captain said glancing back at her lover as the man guided her towards the door.

Marie nodded and watched as her husband led their daughter down the corridor towards the elevator before turning her attention to the girl lying silently in the bed. She wandered slowly across the room and sat down in the chair that her daughter had vacated. The girl looked so calm and if it hadn't been for the machines that monitored her heart and pulse it would have seemed that the girl was sleeping.

"I know we haven't really gotten along but I was hoping that I would get a chance to know you better," she said out loud, speaking to the sleeping woman. "I wanted to find out what captured my daughter because even though she told us she was gay I was hoping that it was a phase."

She tentatively reached out and stroked the blond woman's free hand, feeling how soft and smooth the skin was. "You would be surprised what goes through a mother's mind when she hears that her daughter is a lesbian. At first I wondered what I had done wrong and then I wondered what kind of woman she would be attracted too. Then of course there are the other things....

"But if I had really been watching I should have expected this because even when Alexandria was engaged she was almost disinterested in the relationship. In hindsight I see allot of differences. Alexandria has never been one to be comfortable with touching, even with her fiancee, yet it seems she can't keep her hands off you. I've never seen her that way."

She paused and stared at the gentle face and the neck that was thick now with bandages. "I've never seen Alexandria this happy. You have brought love into her life and for that I am thankful."

She fell silent not knowing what else to say, so she merely reached out and gripped the smaller woman's hand and held it tightly.

"Is Miss Davis your daughter?" a feminine voice disturbed her thoughts and Marie turned to see a kindly nurse. She glanced at the blond woman and then at the nurse.

"Yes," Marie nodded and replied in a soft voice. "Sydney is my daughter."



Alex wasn't really hungry but she forced herself to eat the food that her father had bought and strangely her weariness evaporated. She sucked back several cans of pop and then closed her eyes for a moment.

"Are you feeling better?" Warren asked.

"I'll only feel better when I know Sydney's going to be all right," she replied and the man understood.

"She's a fighter," the man said with a faint smile. "I don't think she's going to give up easily."

"No, she won't," Alex agreed fingering the plastic cutlery that came with her meal. "These last few hours have given me time to think and maybe it's time to make a change in my life."

"What kind of change are you talking about?" Warren asked quietly, taking a sip from his coffee cup.

"Maybe it's time that I left the Police force and settled down and started practicing law."

This news shocked her father but yet at the same time it didn't come as a surprise. Alex had always said that she would start using her law degree once she had decided to settle down and though he knew her relationship with the other woman was serious, he couldn't help wondering if the shooting weren't the real reason behind her decision.

"What does Sydney say about this?"

"I haven't talked to her about this," Alex admitted.

"Then I think you should before you make any decisions," Warren advised. "Remember Alex you're not on your own any more, you have a responsibility to someone else now."

Alex hadn't realized the truth of that statement until her father made it. The man was right, she wasn't alone any more and any decision that was to be made should be done together. She looked across at the man seeing someone more then her father.

"You're being awfully nice about this," she said and the man smiled.

"I would have liked things to be different," the man didn't lie. "But if you have to get together with someone I'm glad it's Sydney. I like the girl, she's funny and competitive and more importantly she loves you. I don't think a father can ask for anything more."

"Thanks dad," Alex was sincere aware how much his approval meant to her. "I appreciate Mom and you coming down. It means a lot to me."

"Well, Sydney's a part of our family now," Warren said with a little embarrassment. "It's the same thing we would have done for anyone else."

The fact that her parents were accepting their relationship and Sydney meant a lot to Alex. The last thing she wanted was to have to chose between her lover and her family. She was glad that it didn't have to come to that.

Her parents stayed for awhile before promising to come back later and over the course of the day officers from the force who knew Sydney drifted by to see how the young detective was doing. The doctor stopped in to check on his patient and he seemed encouraged by her progress. The man had just departed when the Commissioner stuck his head in the room. The feeling of hope she felt gave way to one of trepidation as she looked at the expression on the man's face.

"How is she doing?" the Commissioner asked glancing at the small woman in bed.

"She's holding her own," Alex replied wryly. She was on edge, weary about what he wasn't saying. "What's up George?"

She deliberately used his first name making the conversation personal and she saw the man wince as he shifted uncomfortably on his feet.

"What makes you think anything is up?" he parried aware that he was approaching a delicate subject.

"I know you George," she replied, "and without sounding callous I know your appearance here is motivated by something other then concern for a fallen officer."

"You've become very cynical," he said his eyes narrowing as he looked at her. "I care about all the officers under my command."

"Especially politically sensitive ones," she retorted sometimes hating the politics of her job. She realized that it wasn't fun any more and that maybe it was time to get out.

"I need to know if you are going to be in at work tomorrow?" he said and Alex took a deep breath.

"I won't be in until I know that Sydney is okay."

"You realize that your continued presence here will give rise to rumours, which means that you won't be able to keep your relationship secret."

"At this point I don't care," Alex was honest, feeling the frustration of no sleep and the uncertainty of her partners condition. "I can't believe you asked me that question."

"Have you forgotten you are a Captain in the SPD?" the man reminded in a harder voice.

"I am also her partner," the woman growled, "and right now I'm here not as the Captain of the Homicide Unit but as her companion. If you have a problem with that I can give you my badge right now."

George said nothing aware that at this moment the woman was not rational. He could see by the weary lines on her face that she was exhausted and that meant that her emotions would be heightened. He knew that her only concern now was for the young woman lying in the hospital bed.

"I won't be able to protect you."

"I don't want protection," she retorted hotly.

"You've made your decision then," George said and the dark haired woman nodded as he turned to leave. "I hope she makes it."

"So do I," Alex answered, her words softly spoken so that no one else could hear.

Sydney woke slowly from a long sleep and the first thing she thought was how much her body ached. It seemed that there wasn't any part of her frame that didn't hurt and the beeping that was pinging through the foggy darkness of her brain was beginning to get annoying. She groaned in protest to the misery she felt.

"Sydney?" Alex heard the soft sound and lifted her head from the blankets, her blue eyes searching the still face. There was no movement and she felt her hopes plummet thinking that she had imagined the sound. She was about to turn away when she heard the sound and this time she saw the other woman's lips twitch.

"Sydney?" she repeated the woman's name swiftly rising to her feet so that she could lean over and brush the blond bangs off of the warm forehead.

"Alex?" Her name came from a raspy voice and Alex watched as eyelids fluttered open and closed before opening once more. The green eyes were clouded and filled with pain.

"Hey sweetheart, I'm here," Alex felt a wave of happiness flow through her body as she continued to stroke the woman's brow. "How are you feeling?"

"Like roadkill," Sydney croaked her chest rising and falling heavily as she struggled to breath. Alex couldn't prevent the smile that edged across her features. It faded as the younger woman lifted her hand to the bandages that circled her neck. "Do I look like a roadkill?"

"No," Alex reassured her lover. "You're as beautiful as ever."

"You're just biased," the blond detective sighed, closing her eyes. "What happened?"

"What do you remember?" the Captain asked quietly uncertain if she wanted her lover to remember the shooting.

"We were going to arrest Lucas Andersen," the blond detective struggled to remember but she couldn't break through the dark barrier that clouded her brain. "What happened? Were we in an accident?"

"No, love, you were shot," the taller woman said in a soothing voice hoping that this information wouldn't upset her companion. "When you went to arrest Andersen you were shot."

"I remember now," Sydney sighed closing her eyes and feeling very exhausted.

"That's okay," the older woman smiled faintly. "You don't have to remember."

"We had just entered the apartment," the blond detective related the events as they filtered through her brain. "I wasn't paying attention because I was thinking how Norm had kicked in the door. I was thinking how they only ever did that in the movies."

The small woman paused her throat achy and dry. "I should have been paying more attention, I'm sorry I screwed up. It seems I'm always doing that."

"Oh God no, don't ever think that," Alex whispered reverently her heart breaking. "You did everything right, you saved Norm and Roy. You were pretty damn selfless."

The blond woman nodded mutely, breathing deeply from the oxygen that was being pumped into her nose through the clear plastic tubes fastened around her face. The green eyes popped open again and for an instant Alex saw a look of panic and fear.

"Are they okay?" she wanted to know.

"Yeah, they are both okay, just a few scratches and bumps," the Captain smiled, stroking her lovers cheek affectionately. The smaller woman closed her eyes for a long moment and Alex thought the other woman had fallen back asleep. She lifted her hand away and was about to sit back down when the eyes popped open again, filled with the same panic and fear.

"Don't leave me," there was a pleading look in the green eyes.

"I'm not going anywhere," the taller woman assured her companion with a tender smile. "I'm going to stay right here until you are all better."

"Will you hold me?" there was a desperate plea in the quiet voice that Alex was unable to resist and though she knew that it was probably against hospital regulations. She lifted herself up unto the bed and then stretched her frame out next to the smaller woman, carefully placing her arms around her companion to ensure that she wasn't hurting the woman in any way.

"Is this okay?" she asked softly and the blond woman nodded her head.

"This is nice," Sydney mumbled before closing her eyes again.

"Okay sweetheart, just sleep now and I'll be here when you wake up. I love you." The younger woman mumbled something unrecognizable before slipping off to sleep and Alex sighed with relief.

She closed her own eyes and breathed a deep sigh of relief as the tears swelled within their blue depths. She knew in her heart now that her lover was going to be okay and it was a joy that she had never before felt. For the first time in two days she slept.

When the nurse came later to check on the patient she saw the two women together on the bed. Her first instinct was to wake the taller woman. Hospital regulations generally forbade this type of familiarity but something changed her mind.

Perhaps it was the look of peace and contentment on both women's faces or the reminder that the dark haired woman had spend the last two nights sitting in the chair by the bed keeping a loving vigil. Maybe it was just the lateness of the hour, or the fact that she knew who the dark haired woman was. Either way she ignored the scene and went quietly about her business before exiting the room to leave the two women sleep in peace.

Alex slept until the first rays of sunlight pierced the sky. It had only been a few hours but the nap had been enough to refresh her senses. Upon waking she showered in the change room to which a kindly nurse gave her access.

"I understand," the woman said sympathetically. "My brother is a police officer in Spokane."

Alex had been appreciative of the special considerations she was given not questioning the kindness the stranger displayed. By the time she returned to her lovers room she was feeling better and ready to face another long day.

"She'll probably wake again sometime today and this time she will probably stay awake longer," the doctor pronounced after Alex told him of their short conversation the previous evening. He was satisfied with the way the situation was progressing and his prognosis gave the tall woman a huge measure of comfort.

It was late morning when Marie walked into the room carrying a small bag. She moved straight to her daughter and bent to place a small kiss on her child's cheek.

"Good morning dear," the older woman said briskly. "How is Sydney doing?"

"She woke up last night," Alex said with a smile. "She was tired and didn't say much but the doctor said it was a good sign."

"I'm glad," Marie patted the taller woman's shoulder affectionately. "I don't suppose you have had anything to eat yet this morning?"

"No," the younger woman said sheepishly unable to look her mother in the eye.

"I thought not," the woman shook her head disapprovingly. "Here I brought you breakfast."

"Thank you," Alex was grateful for her mother's thoughtfulness. She opened the bag to find a bagel and coffee inside. She took a bite of the food. "I really appreciate you doing this."

"Well some one has to look out for you," Marie said nonchalantly her grey eyes glancing over the still woman lying in bed. "Your work will only begin once she wakes up."

"I know," the younger woman nodded solemnly.

"It won't be easy and there will probably be allot of strain," the older woman paused. "I want you to know that if you ever need to talk to someone I will always be there for you."

"Thank you," Alex appreciated the gesture but hoped that it wouldn't get to that point. "I think once

she is well enough I'll take her away, on holiday."

"That sounds like a good idea but just be careful you don't push her to hard," Marie advised cautiously. "You must remember to give her time to heal physically and mentally."

Alex knew what her mother was saying. She had a habit of steam rolling through a situation and she knew that in this circumstance she had to be patient and give her lover time.

It was early afternoon when Sydney became conscious again. She sighed heavily as the fog over her brain lifted and she opened her eyes faintly confused until the memories came pouring back over her senses. She closed her eyes for a long moment struggling to remain in control.

"Are you okay?" the familiar voice cut through her fears and a flood of warmth cascaded through her body.

"Now I am," the blond woman smiled faintly as she turned her head and gazed into intense blue orbs. "How are you doing?"

"I'm doing good now that I know you're going to be okay," she was honest.

"I'm sorry I had you worried," the blond woman apologized.

"Don't apologize," Alex gently chided her lover and then confessed somewhat reluctantly. "Truth is I never thought I would find someone who I would care enough about to worry like this. I always saw my life as a puzzle with all these pieces joining perfectly to make this one picture and until I met you the pieces came together but I couldn't see any picture forming. I thought at first that you were a piece that didn't fit and therefore didn't belong in my life, but now I can't imagine living without you."

She paused and swallowed the lump that caught in her throat. "You aren't just a piece of my life. You are the very core around which I was to build everything else and for the first time I can see a picture and it's beautiful."

"For someone who doesn't say much you sure manage to say the sweetest things," Sydney croaked with a faint smile.

"Well just don't tell any of my brothers or I won't be able to live it down," Alex chuckled with a hint of embarrassment and there was a brief silence.

"How are Norm and Roy doing?" Sydney asked quietly.

"They will be fine though they were both more than a little shook up," Alex said and paused. "I'm glad you were wearing your vest."

"Your memo said it was mandatory," the blond woman reminded.

"Yeah well I've noticed a lot of people seem to ignore those memo's," the Captain said cryptically.

"Yeah, but they don't have to live with you," the blond woman chuckled. "I considered not wearing it but I knew what kind of temper tantrum you would throw if I didn't and you found out."

"Damn straight," the taller woman growled with mock fierceness and then turned serious. "The vest saved your life."

"I know," the blond detective sighed wearily and then dismissed the dark thoughts that threatened to overtake her senses. "How long do you think I'll have to be in here?"

"As long as it takes for you to recover completely," Alex said and the smaller woman knew by the tone of her lover's voice that they would be following the doctor's orders to the letter. "Then we are going to have a long talk."

"You're scaring me," Sydney didn't hide her fear and the other woman smiled tenderly.

"It's a good kind of talk," the dark haired woman reached out and stroked the other woman's features, caressing the smooth skin. "Stuff we should have talked about before this."

"Oh," the blond woman didn't know what else to say and the other woman's smile broadened.

"I believe I have rendered you speechless," Alex chuckled and then laid a tender kiss on her lover's lips.

It was almost two weeks before the doctors were comfortable in releasing Sydney from hospital and by that time she was chafing at the restrictions her convalescence was placing on her. At Alex's insistence she spoke with the Police psychologist who paid her several curtsey visits while she was still in hospital. Mostly she concentrated on getting out of hospital and back on the job.

Alex took the day off when Sydney was released from hospital and found herself acting like a mother hen, fussing relentlessly over her companion until the younger woman exploded from all the attention. It was an emotional scene which ended with the blond woman storming out of the apartment. The taller woman waited a few moments before following, knowing where she would find her companion. It was on the beach a few blocks from their condo. She sat down quietly on the bench next to her partner.

"I'm sorry," Alex apologized shoving her hands deep into her trouser pockets. "I promised myself I wouldn't behave like this."

"It's okay," Sydney groused not looking at her companion. "I never had any one fuss over me before. I'm not used to it."

"I know," the taller woman nodded her head. "One of my biggest faults it that I am too possessive. I guess that comes from growing up with three older brothers."

"I like that you are possessive," the smaller woman countered and her companion smiled wistfully for a brief moment before growing serious.

"I worry about you," Alex confessed. "I worry about us."

"You don't have too," Sydney said. "I think we are both strong willed so that we are always going to fight about stuff, but that doesn't mean I'm going to leave."

"My common sense knows that," the other woman nodded, "but my emotional self isn't so secure. I have never cared about anyone the way I care about you....I don't think I will ever care for anyone else more. This whole business really scared me."

Sydney turned then to look at her companion. Alex had bent she head and was staring blindly at her feet which were stretched out in front of her.

"When I thought you might die, I realized that I would lose my soul. I love you that much," the older woman confessed unable to look at her lover. "Until you came along I didn't know what love meant. I had read about it in books but the emotion didn't touch me until you came along and the thought of being without it is just overwhelming. I'm still trying to come to terms with the intensity of the feelings I have for you and sometimes, like today I can't control them."

"I don't want you to control them," the blond woman said softly. "But just understand that sometimes they will be to much for me and I will have to back up a bit. It doesn't mean that I am going to leave, it just means that I need some breathing space."

"I will try to understand that," the dark haired woman nodded and then fell silent.

"Alex," Sydney said her name in a soft voice and the other woman turned to look at her. "Can you do me one favour?"

The other woman nodded mutely and the other woman continued in a serious voice. "Remember that I love you with all my heart and no matter what happens I have every intention of being with you until I am a very old lady."

Alex nodded and allowed a relieved smile to etch it's way across her angular face lightening the mood between them. Sydney smiled alongside her companion.

"So was this the serious talk that you mentioned back in the hospital?"

"No," the smile disappeared from the dark haired woman's face as she grew more serious. She was nervous about bringing up this subject. "I know we have just moved in together but I want something more permanent. I want to know that if anything happens to either one of us the other wouldn't have to go through a whole load of bullshit."

She paused and took a deep breath, thinking of her experience at the hospital. "I am going to make you beneficiary to all my pensions and my contact person if anything happens. I want to know that in case I am incapacitated that you will be making all the decisions that will affect me...us."

Sydney knew what the other woman was saying. It was a gigantic step and she understood the significance behind the decision. They could never be legally joined so this was the only way that there union would be respected.

"Unless of course.. you aren't ready for that type of permanence?" Alex worried about her companions silence.

"No," Sydney shook her head. "I think we both should go down and change our forms."

Alex smiled, her heart warmth by the fact that her lover was on the same wave length as her. She took a deep breath and looked intently at the other woman.

"Would it be all right if I moved over and gave you a hug?" she asked and the blond woman nodded.

Alex scooted across the bench and opened her arms and the smaller woman settled comfortably in their warm folds. They sat back and stared out at the grey ocean deep in their own thoughts. The future would not be easy but at least they would be together. And for both of them that was enough for now.


THE END



Thank you for reading. I hoped you enjoyed the story and perhaps there will be a sequel with our girls in another adventure.

Copyright @ April 2000/ Plant-solin



The sequel to this story is Aftermath



The Athenaeum's Scroll Archive