~ Entwined Lives ~
by RJ Nolan
© May 2004

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This is an original story. The story and characters belong to me. They are not to be used or reproduced without my express written permission.

Disclaimer: This story depicts a love/sexual relationship between two consenting adult women. If you are under 18 years of age or if this type of story is illegal in the state or country in which you live, please do not read it.

Note: This is the sequel to my story In A Heartbeat. I recommend you read that one first so you know what's going on. This story picks up approximately 3 months after the end of In A Heartbeat.

Special Thanks: To Wendy for her expert help and dedication in sticking with me over the long months it took to write this sequel. Her input and hard work helped make this a better story. Thank you! I'd also like to thank Littlespit, for listening to me drone on and on about these characters and events. J Your support during the writing of this story was greatly appreciated.

Feedback and constructive comments are always welcome. You can reach me at rjnolan@gmail.com

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*****

Chapter One

Riley looked out the window as they pulled away from Kim and Jess's and let out a big sigh.

"What's wrong Babe?" Sam asked concerned by the heartbroken look on Riley's face.

"That gets harder every time."

Sam didn't need to ask what she meant. She'd felt it too.

"I know." Sam acknowledged sadly. "I feel like we're missing so much. I can't believe Erin is three months old already and we've only seen her twice since she was born."

The drive home was a quiet affair. Both women were contemplating the same thing but neither was willing to be the first to suggest it.

*****

"It gets harder to say goodbye every time they leave. I want Erin to know her aunts and not just be somebody she sees once a month. It's not fair they're so close but so far away." Kim tearfully told Jess.

It just didn't seem right to Kim. She and Riley had become very close during her pregnancy. They spent most every weekend with Sam and Riley, right up until the end of her pregnancy. But now with an infant it just wasn't an option. Riley's schedule had become even more hectic in the last few months. Kim couldn't help wondering if Riley's coming out at work hadn't had something to do with her ever increasing workload. If there was a short fall in the schedule, it seemed it fell to Riley to cover it. Riley had tried to explain that she was the junior member of the staff but Kim didn't believe that was the only reason for the way she was being treated. Riley had told her of her boss's increasingly hostile attitude after Riley's falling out with her uncle.

Jess tried to console Kim. "When Erin gets older we'll start going down there again I promise and I'm sure once Riley's schedule settles down they'll come up here as well."

"It's not enough." Kim sobbed.

Jess felt helpless in the face of Kim's tears and tried to remember what she knew about postpartum depression. She knew that Kim's emotions would be volatile for quite some time. It all sounded fine out of a textbook but when her wife was sobbing in her arms, it tore her heart out. Erin woke and started to cry.

"I'll get her. You try and relax." Jess said hugging Kim before getting up to go get Erin.

Kim tried to pull herself together. She knew it wouldn't be good for the baby to be upset when she was nursing.

*****

Sam and Riley were curled up on the couch. Riley was in her favorite position using Sam's broad chest as a backrest.

"Are you sorry we decided to wait?" Riley asked out of the blue.

It took Sam a moment to get what Riley was talking about. "No I think we made the right decision. We need to get a place together first before starting a family. Plus you still owe me a ring, after all you're the one that proposed." Sam teased.

"It's not for lack of looking." Riley grumbled. She was glad Sam was behind her and couldn't see her face, not wanting to give away to Sam that she'd found the perfect ring. She was waiting for the anniversary of their first date, which was in two weeks to give it to her.

"I know you've been looking; you'll find the right one." She assured Riley then laughed lightly. "You're not getting away from me that easily Babe."

Riley turned in Sam's arms and straddled her lap. She leaned in and kissed her passionately. Sam looked dazed when Riley finally pulled away. Riley leaned forward again close to Sam's ear, her hot breath blowing in Sam's ear as she spoke. "You're stuck with me now; I'm never letting you go!"

Sam shivered in response. She captured Sam's lips in a second deeper kiss. Riley got up from the couch and led a more than willing Sam to their bedroom.

*****

Riley growled at the interruption. She wanted to finish up her charts and get home to Sam. Tonight was going to be a special night; it was the first anniversary of their first date. Stomping over to the door, she jerked it open and her jaw dropped open in shock.

"Dr. Connolly?" asked the delivery boy.

Riley just stared at the huge bouquet of roses in the boy's arms. She finally nodded her head yes. He smiled widely and handed her the crystal vase holding the flowers before turning to walk away.

"Wait!" Riley called finally finding her voice. She went back into her office and set the flowers on her desk. Rummaging in her purse, she got a tip for the boy then rushed back out into the hall to give it to him.

"No thank you Ma'am, it's already been taken care of." He politely refused. "Happy Anniversary," he offered shyly.

Riley grinned. "Thanks."

Riley headed back to her office to admire the beautiful roses, doing a quick count there were two dozen. She pulled the card off the holder and opened it. 'To My Heart, Happy Anniversary, All My Love, Sam.' Riley couldn't hold back the tears. She clutched the card to her chest, tears of joy rolling down her cheeks.

*****

Riley pulled into the condo parking lot happy to see that Sam's car wasn't parked in its spot. She wanted to get everything ready before Sam arrived home from work. Carefully carrying the flowers inside she made a second trip to bring in the groceries she'd purchased for their anniversary dinner. Riley had everything set by the time Sam arrived.

"Hey Babe, I'm home." Sam called. She spotted the roses in the middle of the coffee table and grinned. The table was already set for a romantic dinner for two, with the candles waiting to be lit.

Riley stepped into the room. She was wearing tight black jeans and a form fitting deep green v necked sweater. Sam felt a throbbing begin between her legs as she slowly perused Riley's body. She stood motionless as Riley approached.

Riley smiled sexily, knowing the effect she was having on Sam. She stopped inches from Sam and placed her hand on the back of Sam's neck pulling her down. Her tongue immediately pushed for entrance into Sam's mouth causing her to moan. Riley finally pulled back after a long and heated kiss.

"Happy Anniversary Love, thank you for the beautiful roses." She whispered against Sam's lips before kissing her again.

Sam was panting and not too sure how long her legs were going to hold her up when Riley finally released her. She leaned against the back of the couch trying to get her breathing under control. The pulsing between her legs had turned into a pounding throb. She reached for Riley intent on easing the ache.

Riley took both of Sam's hands in hers and pressed them against Sam's chest. "Later… Dinner is almost ready. Why don't you go change and I'll finish up."

Sam groaned; dinner was the last thing on her mind. She looked over at the beautifully set table and knew Riley had gone to some trouble to prepare dinner. Grumbling internally, she headed upstairs to change out of her uniform.

*****

"That was wonderful Riley." Sam complimented as she pushed her empty plate aside.

Riley had gotten some help from Carol in preparing the meal. Carol had provided the recipe and walked Riley through the steps the previous week at work. They'd had a salad then pot roast with red potatoes and carrots. Riley smiled happy that the meal had turned out so well and that Sam was pleased. As Sam had quickly found out Riley rarely had time to cook and most things besides scrambled eggs were beyond her cooking ability.

Riley rose from her chair and approached Sam. She offered her hand to her. "Come over to the couch with me."

Sam rose and they walked to the couch with their arms wrapped around each other. Sam couldn't resist leaning down to capture Riley's tempting lips. They kissed softly then Riley pulled back before things could escalate.

She placed one last soft kiss on Sam's lips. "I'll be right back."

Sam settled herself into the comfortable couch cushions. Riley returned with two glasses and a bottle of wine. She poured them each a glass and offered one to Sam. Riley sat on the couch next to Sam and turned to face her.

"You have made the last year the most wonderful year I can ever remember. You've made me happier than I ever thought it was possible to be. I wake up every morning and marvel that you're at my side. You are my fondest wish and my greatest dream come true."

Riley slid off the couch and knelt in front of Sam. She held out a ring box to Sam. "Will you be my wife?"

Sam gulped and her hand shook as she reached out to take the box from Riley. Riley pulled the box back before Sam could take it.

"Well?"

"Don't I get to see the ring first?" Sam asked teasingly.

Riley opened the box to display a matching set of rings. They were solid gold bands with twisted gold wire edging and platinum embossed centers.

Sam was speechless; the rings were gorgeous. Riley cleared her throat nervously; she was starting to panic. Sam was just staring at the rings. She hates them. Sam glanced down into Riley's panicked eyes.

Sam reached out and took the ring box from Riley. She brought her hand up and cupped Riley face.

"It would be my fondest wish and my greatest dream come true to be your wife."

Riley's breath whooshed out and she raised a trembling hand up to cup Sam's still resting against her face. She took the ring box back from Sam and removed the larger of the two rings.

"I love you Sam, now and forever." She said as she slipped the ring on Sam's left ring finger. Riley leaned over and kissed the ring once it was in place.

Sam slid off the couch and knelt in front of Riley their knees touching. She took the remaining ring out of the box. As she slipped the ring on Riley's finger, she repeated her words.

"I love you Riley, now and forever." Leaning down she placed a soft kiss on the ring resting on Riley's left ring finger.

They moved back to the couch and toasted each other with their wine glasses. Neither spoke; there was no need to. Riley curled up against Sam's side and rested her hand on Sam's thigh admiring her ring. Sam brought her hand down and laid it next to Riley's so they could admire both rings.

They both spoke at the same time. "Happy Anniversary."

They stared into each other's eyes. Sam saw Riley's eyes darken and her expression change; she knew that look.

"Could I interest you in some dessert?" Riley asked in a sexy purr.

Sam swallowed hard all her arousal from earlier returning in a flash. "What did you have in mind?"

"Well…" Riley drawled. "How about we take the chocolate mousse I have for dessert upstairs and I spread it all over your body and lick it off?" Her expression had turned predatory.

Sam struggled to find some saliva in her suddenly dry mouth so she could speak.

"Okay." She finally managed to squeak out.

Riley laughed and pulled Sam from the couch. They made a quick stop in the kitchen before heading upstairs.

*****

Sam sighed in frustration. They had been looking at houses and condos since Erin's birth four months ago and still hadn't found a place they could both agree on. Either one or the other of them had found fault with every place their realtor had shown them so far. Phyllis was about to strangle both of them.

Phyllis looked over at the two women. "Not this one either huh?" she asked in a resigned tone. Sam and Riley glanced at each other then both shook their heads no.

Phyllis cleared her throat and addressed both women. "Maybe you need to reassess just what you're looking for. I've shown you a lot of places that meet the criteria you gave me but one or both of you have found fault with every one. I'll be happy to show you other properties as they become available but maybe you should wait a bit and make sure that this is what you both really want."

Sam and Riley left feeling depressed. Both knew what the problem was but neither one wanted to be the first to acknowledge it and suggest the obvious solution.

*****

Sam had made dinner and they lay on the couch enjoying a glass of wine after eating. Riley was back in her favorite spot between Sam's legs, using her as a backrest.

"Maybe we should think about what Phyllis said and rethink what we really want." She told Sam.

"Have you changed your mind about getting a place together?" Sam asked already sure of the answer.

"No, of course not." Riley answered immediately.

Riley took a deep breath preparing for Sam's reaction. She set their wine glasses down and turned to face Sam straddling her lap so she could watch her expression.

"I know what the problem is," she informed Sam.

"So do I." Sam replied.

Riley's eyebrow arched as she looked at Sam curiously. Sam was watching Riley's eyes trying to read her. They both decided to take the plunge at the same time.

"I want to move to LA." They both blurted out simultaneously.

"You do!" They echoed each other again.

They both started laughing. When both started to speak at the same time again, Riley reached up and placed her fingers against Sam's lips stopping her. Sam smiled and nodded encouraging Riley to go first.

"I want to live near Kim and Jess. I miss them so much and seeing Erin once a month for a few hours just isn't enough. I want us to be part of her life and I want our child to have her as a part of theirs. I grew up alone and I don't want that for our child when we have one. I haven't forgotten your promise to get me pregnant you know."

Sam grinned. "Yes, to all that! I just didn't know how to tell you that's what I wanted." Sam turned serious. "Are you sure? This is a big decision. You've already established yourself here. Does this have anything at all to do with Stevens giving you such a hard time since you came out? What about Carol and Denny? What about your uncle if you move back to LA where he is?"

Riley laughed. "Whoa Honey one question at a time. Yes, I've thought about this since before Erin was born. Truthfully, I've been thinking about it since Thanksgiving. I realized then how much I missed being part of a loving caring family all those year with my aunt and uncle. You, Jess, Kim, and Erin are my family now. I'll miss Carol and Denny but we can still come visit them and they can come to LA. I admit things have been getting more difficult at work. Stevens has been unhappy with me since I came out. Since returning from that medical conference a few months ago, he's been downright hostile. I can only imagine what my uncle told him. What it really boils down to is I want us to live near Kim and Jess and raise our families together. That's the real reason I want to move to LA. As far as my uncle goes he made it quite clear he wanted nothing to do with me and that's fine by me."

Sam smiled brilliantly. "I've been thinking about it for a while too. Even before Jess met Kim, I had considered transferring to one of the precincts up there. But I saw Jess most weekends and just never did it. Now that we're together and Kim and Jess have Erin, it's been on my mind more and more. I never said anything because I didn't think you would want to return to LA and were happy here in San Diego, even with your asshole boss."

Riley shook her head in amazement. "Phyllis is going to kill us," she laughed. Sam grinned in agreement. "This is a good lesson to both of us you know." Riley told Sam.

Sam looked at her quizzically.

"On how important it is to communicate with each other even if you don't think it's something the other person wants to hear. We could've been in LA months ago if we'd just talked to each other."

Sam groaned, "Yeah you're right Babe. So what hospital would you want to work at?" Sam questioned.

"Well obviously my first choice would be LA Metro with Kim and Jess. But I don't know if they have any openings for trauma surgeons. I have to start checking the journals for job openings. What about you? Can you request a transfer to a specific precinct in LA?"

Sam looked down suddenly not meeting Riley's eyes.

"Sam?" Riley put her fingers under Sam's chin forcing her eyes up.

"I guess this is a good time to practice that communication thing huh?" Sam asked sheepishly.

"What do you want to do?"

"Well… there was a notice posted last week looking for several instructors at the Police Academy in LA. I was thinking that maybe I could apply for one of those positions. I've been thinking a lot about us starting a family and I'm not sure I want to remain a patrol cop once we have a child."

Riley threw herself at Sam; Sam's breath whooshed out from the impact. Riley hugged her as tightly as she could. "Oh Honey." Riley cried against Sam's neck.

Sam pulled back until she could see Riley's tear streaked face. "I take it that idea meets with your approval?" She asked smiling softly at Riley. She knew Riley had made great strides in accepting her profession but she also knew she was still scared by it.

Riley wiped away her tears and leaned in to kiss Sam passionately. "I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I can't wait to tell Kim and Jess. Do you think they know a good realtor?"

Sam just laughed and hugged Riley. They stayed up late into the night making plans.

*****

Jess let out a loud groan as her arms gave out and she slumped down onto Kim the aftershocks still rippling through her body. Finally regaining her composure she lifted up and met Kim's love filled gaze. She kissed her gently on the lips. "I missed this," she murmured softly. At Kim's quizzical expression, Jess explained. "Being able to be on top of you like this."

Kim tightened her arms around Jess holding her close. "Me too."

Jess eventually moved off Kim when she shifted uncomfortably. Kim looked down feeling wetness on her chest and grimaced.

"Oh that's sexy," she muttered under her breath.

Jess heard her anyway and looked down; she had some milk on her belly and chest where Kim's breasts had leaked from the pressure of Jess lying on her. Kim had milk on her chest and belly as well as some running down her sides.

Jess leaned up and kissed Kim deeply then lightly stroked her engorged breasts. "Yes, I think they're very sexy." She assured Kim. "It makes my heart feel like it's going to burst with love when I watch you nurse our child."

Kim snorted. "I feel like a milk cow and you can't convince me it turns you on to have breast milk all over you."

Jess moved to hover over Kim before leaning down to whisper in her ear. "You'd be surprised what turns me on." She husked in Kim's ear nipping it. Jess then proceeded to show Kim exactly how sexy she thought she was.

*****

Kim lay panting sprawled out on her back. Jess slid up from between her legs and grinned as she placed several soft kisses on her sensitive breasts.

"Okay, you convinced me." Kim gasped still trying to get her breathing under control.

A cry was heard from the baby monitor. "Well at least she has good timing." Jess said chucking as she got out of bed to go get Erin.

She talked softly to Erin as she changed her. "That's my girl. Now you be good to your mommy, so she knows how much we both love her."

Kim listened to Jess coo to Erin over the baby monitor and her heart swelled with the love she had for both her girls. Jess brought Erin back into the room. She shucked her robe and climbed into the bed behind Kim after handing her Erin. She cradled both of them as she watched Erin root at Kim's breast. Jess grinned when Erin hungrily latched onto a nipple causing Kim to jump.

"Yep, she's your daughter alright," she informed Jess with a teasing smile.

Jess looked over Kim's shoulder to watch her daughter nurse. As if aware of the scrutiny, Erin opened her eyes and tried to focus on Jess; her eyes had remained sky blue like Kim's. It was already obvious even at this age just who she would take after not only in looks but it appeared she would have Jess's height and build as well. They sat quietly and enjoyed the time together as a family. Finally, Kim broke the silence.

"Riley called today and confirmed they'd be here tomorrow morning. They were both excited to see how much Erin had grown in the last month but said that digital pictures just don't do justice to the real thing." Kim sighed despondently. "I feel like they're missing out on so much."

They'd had this conversation several times over the last four months with no solution in sight. Jess hadn't told Kim not wanting to get her hopes up that she'd made some discreet inquires at the hospital. Next month the hospital would be placing an advertisement in several journals for a trauma surgeon position opening up at LA Metro. Jess planned on quietly approaching Riley when she and Sam were here over the weekend. She didn't know if they would even consider moving to LA but she had to try. Seeing Kim cry every time they left to return to San Diego broke her heart and if honest with herself, she wanted Erin to grow up with Sam and Riley near by as well. Kim calling her name drew her out of her thoughts.

"Sorry just lost in thought. What were you saying?"

"I ran into Debbie yesterday when Erin and I went down to get the mail. She told me Robert was being transferred to Oakland. They're looking to sell their house."

Debbie and Robert were their closest neighbors. Their house was the next one off the main drive after Kim and Jess's.

"Do you think Sam and Riley have found a house yet?" Kim asked.

Kim felt guilty that each time Sam or Riley found something wrong with a house she had been secretly glad. She'd come up with the idea of them moving to LA while she was still pregnant with Erin. Unfortunately the opportune moment to broach the subject had never appeared. It was a major decision and one not easily made. Riley had confided to Kim and Jess that she had asked Sam to marry her but it hadn't been revealed to the rest of the family yet. They had been waiting until they bought a house together to make the big announcement. The house above them being for sale was the perfect opportunity to talk to them about moving to LA. Kim had been in the house and knew they would both love it.

Jess could see the wheels turning in Kim's head and knew that look; she was up to something. "What are you planning Kim?"

Kim tried to look innocent and failed miserably. Jess chuckled. "Okay… I was just thinking how Debbie and Robert's house would be perfect for Sam and Riley." She admitted.

"You're right, it would be," Jess agreed, "but they don't live in LA."

"They could!"

Jess sighed, when Kim made up her mind about something there was no dissuading her.

"How could they not want to live in LA and be close to this precious little one? I know every time they visit they don't want to leave. If they lived next door they could see Erin whenever they wanted and …"

Jess placed her fingers over Kim's lips. "You don't have to convince me. I think it's a great idea. I just don't want you to get your hopes up. It's a major life change and they have a life in San Diego. Riley has a good job at Mercy and Sam loves being on the force in San Diego."

Kim looked stubborn. "They could have an even better life here with us." She declared adamantly indicating the three of them. "Plus Riley told me they want a child soon. He or she could grow up with Erin."

Jess's jaw dropped open in shock. She knew Riley had proposed to Sam but wasn't aware the discussion had extended to starting a family. Jess just prayed Kim wouldn't be crushed if they said no. Erin had fallen asleep and Jess took her from Kim's arms and returned her to the nursery. She climbed back into the bed and spooned up behind Kim hugging her tight.

"Okay, we'll talk to them about it tomorrow when they get here."

Kim smiled happily snuggling back against Jess.


Chapter Two

Riley was jerked out of her thoughts when Sam suddenly hit the brakes. She looked around to see what was wrong. Sam had stopped at the end of the main drive leading to Jess and Kim's house.

"What's wrong?" Riley asked turning to glance at Sam.

Sam had that half smirk on her face that Riley had come to know so well.

"What?" She asked again suspiciously.

Sam couldn't hold it back any longer a huge grin broke out on her face. "How close to Kim and Jess did you say you wanted to live?" she questioned chuckling.

"In the same area if possible…why?" Riley's confusion was apparent.

Sam pointed to the 'for sale by owner' sign she'd spotted as she pulled into the drive.

"No way!" Riley exclaimed laughing.

"Want to take a look?" Sam inquired already knowing the answer.

"Hell yes," Riley replied with a grin.

*****

Greetings and hugs had been exchanged all around then they headed into the living room. Sam and Riley were waiting impatiently for Erin to awaken. Riley couldn't wait to tell them about looking at the house next door. Kim came back into the room and handed Riley a glass of ice tea. When Riley reached out to take it Kim noticed the ring; she glanced over at Sam and spotted the matching ring on her finger.

Kim let out a whoop startling everyone. "You've been holding out on us." She accused Riley.

At Riley's puzzled look, Kim reached out and took hold of Riley's left hand holding it up so Jess could see. Jess came over to examine the ring. Sam held out her hand so Jess could see her matching one.

"They're beautiful. Congratulations." Jess said sincerely. She grinned at her sister before whispering loudly… "Never thought I'd see the day." Sam just beamed not bothered one bit by the teasing. "But you know you're in really big trouble…"

Riley looked over at Sam questioningly. Sam shrugged her shoulders she didn't have any idea what Jess was talking about.

"Wait 'til Mom finds out you exchanged rings." Jess told Sam.

"Oh shit!" Sam exclaimed.

Riley still looked confused. Kim just snickered. She'd been down this road already.

Sam looked nervously over at Riley "Um… well you see…um."

"Spill it McKenna." Riley demanded.

Jess choked on the drink of tea she'd just taken providing a momentary distraction for Sam to gather her thoughts.

"Sam!"

"Okay…Okay…Remember the picture in my apartment of Kim and Jess at their commitment ceremony?" Riley nodded yes. "Well the ceremony wasn't exactly their idea."

"Wasn't exactly!" Kim interrupted. "How about not our idea at all!"

Sam glared at Kim then continued. "See my mom insisted that no child of hers was going to live in sin and demanded that Jess and Kim get married. She kind of planned everything and invited all the relatives. Once she finds out we exchanged rings there's going to be no stopping her."

Riley looked terrified. She had yet to even meet Sam's parents. They had planned on going to Northern California for Christmas last year but she unexpectedly had to work. They'd talked about visiting several times but she'd just never been able to get the time off. She had spoken to Sam's mother on the phone; she seemed a formidable woman.

"But… but… we can't be legally married and she knows we've been living together." Riley stammered.

Sam sighed. "I know but it makes no difference to my mother." Sam eyed Riley nervously before admitting. "And she doesn't exactly know we've been living together."

"What!" Riley shouted. Kim's eyes darted to the baby monitor. "Sorry." Riley said contritely.

Sam refused to meet Riley's eyes. She shuffled her feet nervously. Riley glanced over to Jess; she had a little half smirk on her face. Kim looked amused as well.

Riley took several deep breaths trying to calm down. "Want to explain to me how your mother doesn't EXACTLY know we've been living together for the last YEAR?"

"Well she's aware we've been dating and are very serious." At Riley's raised eyebrow Sam blushed. "She knows we both have our own places so she doesn't exactly know that we live together in both of them." Sam admitted sheepishly.

Riley shook her head in amazement. It had never even crossed her mind that Sam's parents might not know. A thought suddenly occurred to her.

"Do Frank and Cheryl know we're living together?"

Sam looked relieved; that wasn't the question she was expecting. "Yeah, they know."

Kim knew Riley well enough to read how much this sudden revelation had upset her. She glanced over at Sam who looked at her pleadingly.

"I know this is probably a shock." Kim told Riley. Riley snorted. "The truth is Jess and I went through the same thing. Doris didn't know we were living together either 'til we bought this place. Like Sam said she knew we were dating and serious just not how serious. When she found out we'd exchanged rings she had a fit." Kim glanced over at Jess; it was obvious from her expression that that was an understatement. "She called Jess every week after that to find out when our commitment ceremony was going to be. She insisted no child of hers was going to live in sin. Then she started calling me asking when I was going to make an honest woman of her daughter." Kim rolled her eyes at the memory. "Eventually we caved." Kim admitted with an embarrassed grin.

Sam took Riley's hands in hers. "I wasn't hiding anything from you, I swear. I just knew how they'd be if they found out. I wanted us to have a chance to get settled before I subjected you to my mother."

Riley leaned toward Sam like she was going to kiss her. Just before their lips touched Riley reached behind Sam and pinched her sharply on the butt. Sam yelped and pulled back rubbing her butt. Kim and Jess howled with laughter.

"What did I tell you about keeping important things from me?"

Sam was saved by a cry from the baby monitor.

"We will talk about this again later." Riley informed Sam.

Sam leaned down and lightly kissed Riley.

Everyone got up to head into the baby's room. Riley and Sam both were anxious to see Erin.

*****

"I can't believe how big she's gotten." Sam marveled as she watched Erin nurse at Kim's breast.

Kim stroked the baby's thick black hair. "Yeah, she growing like a weed. She looks more like Jess every day."

When Erin finished her meal Kim handed her over to Sam. Sam crossed her ankle over her knee making a safe place for Erin to rest where she and Riley could talk and play with the little girl. Jess joined Kim on the love seat. She looked over at Sam and Riley with Erin. They were so engrossed in the baby the other women might not have even been in the room.

"Think we're ever going to get her back?" Jess asked smiling fondly at the two women cooing over Erin.

"Oh I'm sure once she gets hungry they'll come looking for me." Kim laughed.

"Well since our daughter is so well taken care of maybe you could use some attention." Jess said leaning over to press her lips softly against Kim's neck.

Kim let out a soft moan tipping her head to the side to give Jess more area to caress.

When Riley looked up from the baby several minutes later Kim and Jess were locked in a passionate kiss. Riley nudged Sam then motioned toward Kim and Jess. Sam just grinned when Jess pressed Kim back into the sofa.

"Maybe we should adjourn to the family room and give them some privacy." Sam stood with Erin in her arms and the three of them headed for the family room. Kim and Jess never even noticed them leaving the room.

*****

When Jess pushed up her shirt and bra and leaned down to take a nipple into her mouth Kim suddenly remembered they weren't alone.

"Jess." She pushed against her shoulders stopping her."

Jess lifted passion glazed eyes to Kim. "What…"

"We're not alone…remember." Kim whispered.

Jess's face flushed red and she glanced over to the couch where Riley and Sam were with Erin. She turned back to Kim with a grin.

"Oh yes we are."

Kim looked over confirming that Sam and Riley weren't there any more. Jess immediately leaned down and captured the nipple she was denied before. Kim moaned loudly.

"We can't do this here. They're just in the other room."

"Come on…" Jess got up off of Kim urging her up off the loveseat and pulled her down the hall.

"Wait Jess, I need to check on Erin." Kim insisted pulling her shirt and bra back into position.

Jess pressed Kim against the wall in the hallway. Before Kim could protest she slipped her hand inside Kim's pants and underwear and stroked the wetness she found.

"She's fine. Riley's a doctor. They'll come get us if there's a problem." The whole time she was speaking she continued to stroke Kim and plant open mouth kisses along her neck.

Kim groaned unable to resist. Jess had Kim's shirt off and her bra unhooked by the time they reached the end of the hall. She pulled her into the bedroom and shut the door.

"Just stand still, let me take care of you." Jess urged Kim as she removed the remainder of her clothes tossing them to the floor. Jess felt a surge of wetness between her legs when Kim stood nude before her. Her breasts were much larger than normal but in the months since Erin's birth she'd already lost most of the weight she'd gained during her pregnancy. The birth had left its mark in the fuller more lush curves she now sported.

Jess guided Kim over to the side of the bed, encouraging her to sit down on the edge. Jess knelt on the floor between Kim's legs. Placing a hand on the inside of each knee she spread her open. Jess gazed at the sight before her the thrill and arousal she felt seeing Kim like this had not lessened in the time they'd been together. She kissed Kim's breasts stroking them lightly knowing how sensitive they were. She could smell Kim's arousal and couldn't wait any longer. She leaned forward to taste the nectar between Kim's legs. Kim's head fell back at the first stroke of Jess' tongue.

"Oh god Jess," she moaned leaning back on her hands and spreading her legs further open.

Jess pressed her tongue inside repeatedly trying to lap up all the flowing juices. Kim's hips started to buck. Jess knew she was more than ready. She pulled out her tongue and quickly pushed two fingers inside. She moved up latching on to the throbbing bundle of nerves and sucked hard as she thrust in and out. Kim's back arched and she screamed Jess's name before slumping to the bed her arms giving out as her climax roared through her body. Jess remained in place holding her fingers still and gently licking the still twitching flesh in front of her. Once the aftershocks stopped she carefully withdrew and moved up to lie next to Kim.

Kim's eyes opened and a lazy sated grin crossed her face. "You are so good at that."

"I aim to please." Jess replied before taking her lips in a deep kiss.

"I'm sorry Sweetheart you must be dying." Kim said when the kiss finally broke. She began to work Jess' clothes off. Jess was more than happy to help and was quickly naked.

Kim leaned over to kiss Jess then moved to her ear nipping lightly. "Tell me what you want." She whispered in Jess's ear. Jess groaned her hips rising.

Jess looked deep into Kim's eyes. "I want to feel you on top of me and inside me."

Kim gulped her own arousal soaring. She pushed Jess over onto her back and quickly straddled her hips. She pressed their mounds together and kneaded Jess' breasts with both hands. Leaning forward she took a rock hard nipple into her mouth and sucked then lightly scraped her teeth across the hard surface. Jess's hips bucked hard almost unseating Kim. Kim lay down covering Jess then shifted slightly to give herself access.

"Spread your legs for me Babe." She husked in Jess's ear.

Jess moaned and her legs spread open. Kim's hand slipped between their bodies and began to stroke Jess. Jess's hips immediately began to thrust.

"Go inside…please." She begged Kim.

Kim pushed inside with two fingers and took up the rhythm of Jess's hips. Kim knew it wouldn't be long, Jess was soaked and she could already feel the fluttering of her inner walls.

"More… please." Jess pleaded.

Kim pulled out just enough to add a third finger then thrust back inside hard. She pumped her fingers hard, fast, and deep.

Jess's back arched and her whole body went rigid as she called out Kim's name. Kim held her fingers in place but stopped all movement. Once the tight grip on her fingers relaxed Kim pulled out eliciting a groan from Jess.

They drifted off to sleep with Kim still lying on top of Jess.

*****

"Erin's getting hungry, why don't you go get them?" Sam asked.

"No way, you go get them." Riley countered.

They both looked up when they heard a noise. Standing in the door way were Kim and Jess.

"Have a nice nap? You sure are loud sleepers." Sam snickered unable to resist tweaking her sister.

Kim blushed and Jess just grinned at her sister. "We had a wonderful nap, thank you."

"Thanks for watching Erin." Kim told them as she reached out to take the baby.

Riley pulled back, "I'm not ready to give her back yet."

Erin began to fuss and root at Riley's breast.

"Well unless you plan on opening your shirt and feeding her, you're gonna have to give her back."

Riley stuck her lower lip out in a pout as she handed Erin back to Kim. Kim just laughed and settled in the rocker to nurse Erin.

"Sam and I were talking while you were… a…. napping." Riley stuttered and blushed. "We know you haven't had a chance to go out to dinner or anything since Erin's birth. So…um if you wanted we would be glad to watch her. I mean if you'd be comfortable with something like that…" she added nervously. She really didn't know if they would feel comfortable leaving Erin with her and Sam.

Kim glanced over at Jess who nodded her head in agreement. "That would be great. I mean if we can't leave her with her godparents who can we leave her with."

Sam and Riley looked at Kim in shock. "Godparents." They echoed each other.

Kim laughed startling Erin and interrupted her feeding. She took a moment to get her back to her meal. "Yes, her godparents. If you want to be that is."

Riley's grin couldn't have been any bigger; even Sam looked like she was about to burst. Riley jumped up and embraced Jess before kissing her, then made her way over to Kim. She hugged her careful of Erin and kissed her softly as well.

Glancing over at Sam she answered for both of them. "We would be honored to be her godparents.

Sam hugged her sister and Kim and placed a soft kiss on Erin's forehead. "Hear that Little One, we're going to be your godparents."

They all sat and happily watched as Erin finished her meal. Kim rocked her for a few minutes then took her back into the nursery.

"Ready for your first babysitting job?" She asked Sam and Riley when she returned.

Sam stood up and saluted. "Ready and waiting for orders ma'am." She yelped when Riley pinched her ass.

"Sit down, smartass." Riley ordered.

Jess grinned over at her sister then mouthed. "Whipped."

Sam stuck out her tongue at her sister then yelped when Riley pinched her a second time. Jess roared with laughter.

*****

Kim and Jess had left several hours earlier. They'd decided on not just dinner but a movie. Kim had expressed her breast milk for Erin's later feeding. They gave her a bottle with breast milk at least once a day so Jess could participate in her feeding plus Kim couldn't always get away from work to go up to the day care facility and feed her. Kim assured Riley she would have no trouble giving Erin a bottle.

Everything had been going well until Erin started to cry frantically. Sam and Riley had both tried to calm her without success. She wasn't hungry or wet. Sam was pacing the room with her as she continued to cry inconsolably. Thor lay at Riley's feet closely watching Sam as she paced with Erin. Finally he got up and stepped in front of Sam nudging her then growling softly. Obviously the baby crying was upsetting him too.

"I know I'm trying." She told the big dog. Sam felt totally helpless not knowing what was wrong or what to do. "Do you think we should call Kim and Jess?"

Riley suddenly remembered being at Carol and Denny's and having the same thing happen with Jeremy.

"No not yet, come here." Riley answered beckoning her over to the couch.

Riley reached up and took a still loudly crying Erin from Sam. She looked up at Sam.

"Take off your shirt and bra and lay down on your back on the couch."

Sam quirked her eyebrow at Riley and smirked, "Babe, I hardly think this is the time for that."

Riley growled at Sam making her laugh. "Do it!" she demanded.

Sam self-consciously removed her tee shirt and bra then lay down as instructed. When she settled onto her back she saw that Riley had removed Erin's sleeper leaving her in just a diaper. Riley placed Erin on her belly on Sam's bare chest. Erin started to quiet almost immediately. She rooted at Sam's breast and whimpered. Riley offered Erin her pacifier, which she immediately took and began to suckle strongly. It didn't take long before her little eyes started to close. Sam couldn't believe it. She gently stroked Erin's back and held her close as Riley spread a baby blanket over them. Thor came up and gently touched Erin before giving Sam a grateful lick in the face. He flopped down right in front of the couch.

Sam looked over at Riley. "How did you know this would work?"

"I am a doctor." Riley replied with mock arrogance.

Sam snorted startling Erin. She patted the little girl's back and kissed her softly on the top of her head. When Sam was sure Erin was settled again she turned back to Riley and raised an eyebrow in question.

Riley laughed softly. "Okay… I was at Carol and Denny's one night and the same thing happened with Jeremy. Carol had Denny take off his shirt and lay skin to skin with Jeremy. She said sometimes young babies get over stimulated and the only way to calm them is with skin on skin contact and body heat. Plus she said the sound of your heart and the warmth reminds them of being in the womb.

Sam smiled brightly at Riley. "You're going to make a great mom." Riley just glowed with the compliment.

*****

Sam was still on the couch with Erin when Jess and Kim returned. Kim and Riley talked quietly as Jess made her way over to her sister. It didn't take her long to notice Sam's tee shirt and sports bra draped across the back of the couch. She reached out and softly stroked Erin's hair.

Quirking an eyebrow at her sister she asked. "Just what are you doing naked with my daughter." She chuckled lightly when Sam shot her a dirty look.

Kim walked up in time to hear the comment. "Leave her alone Jess. Erin decided to have one of her screaming fits while we were gone. You know the only thing that settles her down is to lie on your bare chest."

Kim leaned down and kissed Erin's forehead then Sam's. "Don't let her give you a hard time Sam. She does the same thing with Erin all the time. That's probably why she settled down so fast when you did it. You have the same muscular chest that Jess does. She felt right at home."

She reached down to take Erin but pulled back when Sam blushed. Kim realized she'd have to expose Sam to pick up Erin.

"Riley how about you put Erin in bed and Jess and I will get us all some wine." Not waiting for an answer she pulled Jess toward the kitchen to give Sam some privacy to get dressed.

*****

They settled in the living room with a glass of wine. Riley was hoping for a chance to talk to Jess about a job opening at LA Metro and her and Sam's decision to move to LA. The house next door was perfect, just what they'd been looking for. They had talked about it earlier when Kim and Jess were gone but neither one of them could quite figure out how to bring up the subject now that they were here. It all sounded so great when they had talked about it in San Diego, but what if Kim and Jess weren't as thrilled about the idea as they were? Riley and Sam were both worried.

Sam glanced over at Kim and Jess just in time to see Jess grab Kim's wine glass before it hit the floor. Kim was sound asleep.

"Sorry guys," Jess apologized as she yawned widely. "Erin still gets up in the middle of the night. It's been a while since Kim and I got a full night's sleep. Sorry to poop out on you like this."

"Don't worry about it. We'll be here all day tomorrow. Get some rest…both of you." Sam assured her sister.

Jess woke Kim and led her back to the bedroom. Sam and Riley sat up for a while talking trying to decide the best way to tell Kim and Jess about their plans. She didn't know why they were suddenly so nervous. They both laughed agreeing they were being silly. Kim and Jess were going to be thrilled with the news. They headed to the guest room for some much needed sleep.


Chapter Three

Jess's eyes snapped open and she looked around in confusion, something wasn't right. Kim was snuggled up in her arms still sound asleep. Jess finally realized what was wrong. It was light outside and it was late. A quick glance over at the bedside clock confirmed it; it was just after eight am. Erin should have woken them over two hours ago for her six am feeding. Jess quickly untangled herself from Kim sparing a quick glance at the baby monitor assuring herself it was still on. She slipped it into her robe pocket before exiting the room. She quietly stepped into Erin's room across the hall. Jess felt a moment's panic at Erin's empty bed then smiled remembering that Sam and Riley were in the house.

Jess stood silently in the doorway leading into the family room. Riley was sitting in the rocking chair with Erin singing softly to her totally unaware of Jess's presence. Jess could see that Erin's eyes were open and she was watching Riley intently. Her heart clenched with emotion at the look on Riley's face. Her expression was so open and filled with love as she gazed at the little girl in her arms. Jess knew she and Kim had made the right decision naming Sam and Riley Erin's godparents. If anything ever happened to her and Kim she was certain Erin would have a loving caring home with Sam and Riley. Jess shook her head refusing to think any more about such things. She shuffled her feet making her presence known. Riley looked up; her face was aglow with pleasure. Oh yeah she's ready for kids, Jess chucked to herself.

Riley's expression became shy and just a little nervous. "I hope this is okay. I woke up earlier and heard her start to fuss. I changed her then gave her the bottle from the fridge. We've just been bonding." Riley added with a smile and gazed down lovingly at Erin. "Haven't we Little One?" she asked before leaning down to kiss her softly. Erin gurgled happily in response.

"It's fine." Jess assured her. "I appreciate it and I'm sure Kim does too. This is the latest we've slept since the munchkin came along. That's what woke me, it was light out and our little alarm clock hadn't gone off."

Jess leaned down to kiss her daughter good morning. Riley obviously reluctant offered Erin to Jess.

Jess just smiled and stepped back. "Mind hanging on to her for a while longer while I get a cup of coffee? Or if you want I can put her in her swing?" Jess offered already knowing what Riley's response was going to be.

Riley tightened her hold on Erin. "No that's okay, she's fine right here."

"That's what I thought you'd say." Jess teased before heading into the kitchen for her coffee.

It dawned on Jess as she poured her coffee that now would be the perfect time to talk to Riley about the job at LA Metro. Jess came back into the family room with her coffee and sat down opposite Riley in the recliner. Erin had finally fallen asleep in Riley's arms. Riley continued to rock her gently.

"So how's work? Is Stevens still giving you a hard time?"

Riley's expression clouded over. "Yeah, the guy is being a real bastard. He's started messing with my scheduled follow-up surgeries assigning them to another surgeon."

"He can't do that, can he?" Jess asked shocked at how bad things had gotten.

"Well technically no, but there's another surgeon on the service that's had a real problem with me since I came out. She's helping him, doing the surgeries early when I'm either off or tied up in the ER. I'd go to pre-op my patient and find out the surgery had already been done. Not only that she's making the patients think I turned their cases over to her. I don't know why Claire has such a problem with me since she found out I was gay but she does." Riley said sighing in frustration.

"So what are you going to do, file a grievance?"

Riley shook her head no. It was obvious from her expression how upsetting she found the whole situation. She realized that Jess had just given her an opening to ask about a job at LA Metro. She and Sam had planned on telling them together but she knew Sam would understand.

"Actually I've decided to look for a new job."

Jess's jaw dropped open in surprise; this was just too perfect. She started laughing then quickly quieted when Erin jumped in Riley's arms. Riley soothed the little girl back to sleep before looking questioningly at Jess.

Jess had a huge grin on her face. "Well if you and Sam would consider a little relocation there's a job opening at LA Metro for a trauma surgeon. The fringe benefits are pretty good too." She added motioning toward Erin. Jess watched Riley's face closely to gauge her reaction. She didn't have to look very hard. A matching grin quickly graced Riley's face.

She shook her head in amusement. "Sam and I were going to tell you both today that we'd decided to move to LA and…" Riley was cut off by a loud whoop from Jess, which earned her a glare from Riley when she woke up Erin.

"Sorry." Jess whispered. She was almost bouncing in the recliner trying to contain her happiness.

Riley couldn't help but smile widely in response. Once Erin was back asleep, Riley got up and took her into the nursery then returned to the family room and Jess. Before she could say anything Jess jumped up from the recliner and wrapped Riley in a warm hug. The embrace was interrupted by a voice from the doorway.

"Just what are you and my wife up to this early Sunday morning?" Sam asked in a sleep-roughened voice. She'd obviously just awoken.

Riley stepped out of Jess's arms and into Sam's. Riley's smile lit up the room; it was the first time Sam had referred to her as wife to anyone.

"Morning Babe." Sam murmured before leaning down to kiss Riley softly. "So what's going on? I assume that was your big mouth that woke me up." She accused her sister.

Jess just laughed. "Well I was just telling your wife about a job opening for a trauma surgeon at LA Metro."

Sam's whoop matched the one her sister had let out just minutes earlier. She slapped her hand over her mouth when she realized what she'd done.

"Oops." Sam said with an embarrassed grin.

The three women started laughing and hugging each other. A voice again interrupted from the doorway.

"What the hell are you three doing? I could hear you all the way in the back bedroom. I can't believe Erin has managed to sleep through all the racket."

An obviously sleep tousled Kim stood glowering at the three women who were smiling broadly and didn't look the least bit contrite. Kim eyed the two sisters then Riley. Turning to her wife, she repeated Riley's words from yesterday.

"Spill it McKenna."

The three women across from her convulsed with laughter falling against each other.

Kim glared at all three of them. "The first one of you hyenas that wakes up Erin is going to be on poopie diaper duty all day," she threatened.

The three sobered immediately but continued to grin. Kim's eyes pinned Jess and her eyebrow arched. Jess sauntered over to her wife causing Kim's lips to quirk as she tried to hold back her smile.

"Oh we were just discussing the fact that…" She paused earning a poke from Kim. "Sam and Riley have decided to move to LA." Jess informed Kim with a grin.

Jess quickly brought her hand up and covered Kim's mouth muffling the whoop of joy she let out. Kim's eyes filled with tears and she rushed over to hug first Riley then Sam.

Sam wiped away Kim's tears. "That was supposed to make you happy, not make you cry." She gently chided Kim.

"Oh I am happy; I can't even begin to express how much this means to me."

Jess stepped over and wrapped Kim in a loving embrace as the tears of joy continued to trail down her face. She looked over to see Sam had taken a now crying Riley in her arms as well.

She smiled over at her sister knowing how much this meant to both their wives.

*****

Kim was gliding around the kitchen her feet barely touching the floor she was so happy. She just couldn't believe that Sam and Riley had decided to move to LA. It was like a dream come true. She passed Sam where she stood at the counter stirring batter for pancakes. She and Sam had offered to make brunch since they were the late risers of the group. Riley and Jess had headed into their respective bathrooms to get cleaned up and Erin was still sleeping. Kim couldn't resist wrapping her arms around Sam's waist and hugging her as she went by. Sam smiled back at her when Kim rested her head on Sam's shoulder.

"I just can't get over it. You guys are really moving to LA. How did that happen? I thought you were looking to buy a place in San Diego. Not that I'm complaining mind you." She added quickly.

Sam laughed. "I know what you mean; it took some getting used to for me too. It all started when Phyllis called to say she'd found the perfect place. Riley and I went over and looked at it and the truth is it was perfect except for one thing."

"What was that?" Kim asked curiously.

"It wasn't near you, Jess, and Erin." Sam told her sister-in-law smiling.

Kim tightened her arms around Sam's waist.

"Phyllis said she thought we should reevaluate what we really wanted. I'd known for a while that I wanted to be closer to you and Jess. I had actually considered it before Jess met you but I saw her then the two of you most weekends so just never got around to it. But when the little one arrived, it brought it up all over again. I didn't say anything to Riley; I figured she'd never be willing to leave her job. Anyway, we both finally admitted to the other what we really wanted. Riley's miserable at work and we both feel like we're missing out seeing Erin grow up. We'd like a child of our own soon and I know how great it was growing up having siblings close in age. I know you do as well. Riley grew up alone and doesn't want that for our child any more than I do. She actually told me she'd been considering moving to LA since Thanksgiving. She never said anything because she didn't think I'd want to leave my job." Sam added ironically.

"What about you Sam? I know how much your job on the force in San Diego means to you. Are you okay with transferring to a station house here?" Kim asked trying to read Sam. She wanted to be sure that Sam was going to be happy in LA; she had no doubts about Riley.

"Well to be honest my focus has changed since meeting Riley. Before her, my job was my life now it's just what I do for a living. I've never told Riley but the incident with Keith really shook me up and made me reevaluate my priorities. Now that I've got a wife and hopefully soon a child on the way I don't want to be a patrol cop. I'm going to apply for a position that's opening up at the LA Police Academy. That way I stay in law enforcement which I love but I'm not on the streets any more."

Sam was flabbergasted when Kim started to cry again. She turned and took her into her arms.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong… everything is finally right." Kim sobbed.

Sam didn't have any idea what had caused this latest crying jag. She just held Kim until the storm passed.

"Sorry about that my emotions still get away from me sometimes." Kim tearfully told Sam as she wiped away her tears. "I would've never said anything to you but now that you're giving it up I'll tell you. I've been petrified ever since you went back to work. I just knew we were going to get another phone call like last time and this time you weren't going to be so lucky."

"No one ever tells me anything," Sam grumbled shaking her head in disbelief. She knew Kim and Riley were frightened by her job but had no idea they felt so strongly. She thought Riley had adjusted well and come to accept her line of work. "Riley just about strangled me in her enthusiasm when I told her. If it bothered you both that much why didn't you say anything?"

Sam jumped when Riley spoke from the doorway. "Because Honey, neither of us would ever ask you to give up something you loved doing. That's part of accepting the person you love for who they are."

"What she said." Kim agreed.

Jess stepped up behind Riley. Seeing Kim's tear streaked face where she stood in Sam's arms, she addressed her sister. "Are you making my wife cry again?" she questioned sternly.

Kim tightened her arms around Sam and laid her head on her shoulder. "No she's not." She answered for her.

"I'm not!" Sam insisted.

Jess wrapped her arms around Riley from behind bringing her back against her body. She leaned over to whisper to Riley loud enough for Sam and Kim to hear.

"What do you think, should we believe her?"

Riley relaxed back against Jess and pretended to seriously think about her answer.

"Oh I think she's trustworthy." Riley finally concluded after giving Sam the once over.

All four women laughed then went to their respective partners. Riley nestled happily in Sam's arms while Kim did the same with Jess. Kim and Riley's stomachs growled in unison. Their raven-haired partners both roared with laughter. Their merriment was interrupted by a cry from the baby monitor. The two sisters looked at their spouses guiltily.

"Lucky for you two she was due to get up." Kim informed the two contrite women.

Jess volunteered to go get her and quickly escaped the room her sister hot on her heels.

Kim shook her head as she watched them scurry from the room. "I swear sometimes it's like having two kids."

"Just wait, 'til Sam and I move up here." Riley chuckled.

Kim just laughed. "It'll be worth it."

*****

The four women gathered in the living room after brunch. Sam and Riley were cuddled together on the loveseat and Kim and Jess shared the couch. Erin was on a comforter spread out on the floor being watch over by Thor as she contently played with her toes.

Kim was bursting to tell Sam and Riley about the house above them for sale.

"So have you made up your mind where you'd like to live?" Kim asked casually.

Jess snickered, earning a glare from Kim, she knew exactly where Kim was going with this conversation.

"Well if I get the job Jess told me about at LA Metro we'd like to live somewhere here in the area." Riley answered. They hadn't told either woman that they'd already looked at their neighbor's house.

Kim turned to Jess in shock before Riley could say anything else. "What job at LA Metro?" she demanded. "You knew all along there was a job available and you didn't tell me?" she accused.

"I just recently found out. I didn't want to say anything and get your hopes up Babe in case Riley or Sam weren't open to moving up here. I didn't want you upset." Jess tried to explain.

Kim glared at Jess for a second but seemed mollified by her answer. Jess glanced over at her sister and fought to keep a straight face when Sam wiped imaginary sweat off her brow. Kim saw her and turned her glare on Sam. Sam quickly looked engrossed in her shoes.

"So anyway..." Riley said hoping to defuse some of the tension. "How soon is the job opening up?"

"It's supposed to get listed in the journals starting next month with immediate availability. If you can fax me a copy of your Curriculum Vitae I'll take it over to Allen Freeman on Monday. He's the Chief of Surgery."

"You don't have to do that Jess; I can apply once it's listed in the journal."

"Take my word for it Riley; most jobs don't ever make it to the journal listings. I know you stayed where you did your fellowship but believe me that's how it usually works. Allen will be thrilled he doesn't have to deal with paying for candidates to come look from all over the place."

"You seem pretty sure he'll hire me, but he might want to see if there are some better candidates out there." Riley said suddenly unsure.

Jess smiled at Riley. "Don't worry about it. I've seen your CV and read the papers you've written. I'm positive he'll want you. Plus, you do a lot of trauma surgery on kids and I know for a fact that we're lacking in that department. This was meant to be." She assured Riley.

She turned to her sister. "What about you Sam, are you okay with transferring to a precinct here in LA?"

"Actually I plan on applying for a position at the LA Police Academy. It's not more than 10 blocks from LA Metro."

"But what about..." Jess started to question.

Kim interrupted. "I'll explain later." She promised. She wanted to talk about Debbie and Robert's house. The housing market in LA and San Diego was still red hot and she knew the property wouldn't be available long.

"Are you going to buy a house here?" She asked hopefully.

Sam and Riley grinned at each other. "Definitely." They answered together.

"Great." Kim enthused, "I know the perfect place. Our neighbors are moving…" Her voice trailed off when she caught the look on both women's faces. "What?"

Sam and Riley just grinned like idiots but neither one spoke. Kim stared as if they'd lost their minds. Finally Sam spoke.

"We saw the sign when we drove in yesterday. We stopped and looked at the house before we came in."

"Well?" Kim asked impatiently.

"We loved it and wanted to know if you'd go back with us to put in an offer?" Riley asked.

Kim started to cry again, which started Riley going as well. The two siblings sighed and took their sobbing wives into their arms.

"I'll be so glad when you move up here." Jess said over her wife's head. "I don't know how much more of this I can take."

Thor chose that moment to stand up and start to woo woo mournfully.

"Don't you start." Jess warned the big dog.

Riley pulled away from Sam and went over to console the big dog. She'd grown very fond of him. Thor sighed happily and licked Riley's face when she hugged his neck.

Everyone chuckled at his antics.

The phone rang interrupting them. Jess went into the kitchen to answer it. It was a good thing Erin was awake or Jess would've been in trouble again. They all jumped at the loud yell of exhilaration Jess let out several minutes later. They all piled into the kitchen to see what all the excitement was about.

"Okay, that's great I'll let everyone know… Yeah, Sam and Riley are here… I'll tell them… I'm so happy for you... Give Cheryl our love… talk to you soon… I love you too… Bye."

Jess turned grinning at her audience who'd been listening to her side of the conversation.

"Well?" Kim asked.

"Give me the baby first." Jess instructed.

Kim looked puzzled but handed their daughter over.

Jess cradled her daughter to her chest and covered her little ears. "That was Frank…" Jess paused smirking in anticipation. "Cheryl's pregnant!" Jess waited until the commotion died down then continued, "They think she got pregnant the day Erin was born. Frank said they were celebrating." Jess told them laughing happily. "He said Cheryl has been having a really hard time with all day sickness and that she'd try to call when she was feeling better."

They all headed back into the living room discussing Sam and Riley's upcoming move and Frank and Cheryl's happy news.

*****

Sam gazed over at Riley and smiled shaking her head. She was beginning to think she was going to have to sedate Riley. She'd been bouncing around in her seat all the way home talking excitedly about the upcoming move to LA and Cheryl's pregnancy. They'd gone over to Kim and Jess's neighbor and toured the house again. They both knew the house was just perfect for them. It had everything on their list they'd given Phyllis and best of all it was a short walk down the driveway to Kim and Jess's. Sam had already spotted a likely area where their driveway met the back of Kim and Jess's property where she could put in a gate to connect the two properties. They'd made an offer on the house and had every confidence it would be accepted. Riley was still going on about all the things they had to do as she had been since they left Kim and Jess's. For the first time since Erin was born, neither Kim nor Riley had cried when they left. Sam knew in her heart that they were making the right decision. She admitted to herself that she was just as excited as Riley was.

*****

Sam looked over at the clock and groaned. "Babe, it's almost midnight. I have an early day tomorrow and so do you. We don't have to settle everything in one night. Go to sleep."

They had gone to bed around eleven. Riley had kept her up talking about the move. Sam had finally insisted they get some sleep. Even after she turned out the light Riley hadn't been able to settle down and kept bringing up new topics. Sam finally had enough and knew there was only one way she was going to get any sleep tonight.

Sam rolled on top of Riley and before she could say anything else, took her lips in a searing kiss. Riley moaned when Sam's tongue pushed into her mouth. She ravaged her mouth not giving her a second to think of anything else. Pushing Riley's shirt up and her boxers down Sam continued her relentless pursuit. Riley could only moan and thrash all coherent thoughts driven out of her mind. When Sam's fingers slipped inside and she began to thrust hard and fast it didn't take long before Riley's body arched as the strong orgasm raced through her body. She slumped back to the bed, sated and limp. Sam curled around her as they both drifted off to sleep.


Chapter Four

"Hi Susan, is Dr. Freeman busy?" Jess asked as she stepped into the outer office of the Chief of Surgery.

"Let me see if he's free." She replied reaching for the phone. "Go right on in Dr. McKenna." Susan said with a smile after a short phone conversation with her boss.

"Hi Allen." Jess greeted the distinguished looking black man sitting behind the desk. He was of average height, in his early 50's with short-cropped black hair that had started to gray at the temples.

"Hey Jess, to what do I owe the pleasure? Usually don't see you up here." He responded with a smile.

"Do you have a few minutes? I wanted to talk to you about something."

"For you, sure. Have a seat." He invited relaxing back in his chair. "What can I do for you?" Allen asked getting down to business.

"Have you filled the Trauma surgeon position?" Jess asked.

Allen's eyebrow arched, now he was really curious. "No not yet. There are several finishing Fellows being considered but I was hoping to find someone a little more experienced. Why the sudden interest, considering changing specialties?"

Jess laughed. "No thanks! I know someone interested in the position. She's two years post fellowship and currently working at Mercy in San Diego." Jess grinned to herself she could see Allen was interested.

"Got a CV." He asked casually trying not to betray his interest.

"Sure do." Jess smiled handing over Riley's curriculum vitae that she'd been carrying. Jess sat quietly giving Allen time to read Riley's Curriculum Vitae.

When he finished he looked up. "What's the catch?"

"Huh?" Jess responded in confusion.

"Anybody who looks this good, there must be a catch. She's just what we've been looking for. Hell… she even wrote a paper on the special concerns of pediatric trauma surgery when she was a Fellow. Any Chief of Surgery worth his salt wouldn't let this woman get away. So I repeat 'what's the catch?' Is she a prima donna, drinks, what? Why is she leaving Mercy? Do you know this woman personally?"

Jess laughed lightly at Allen's rapid-fire questions. "Yes, I know Riley personally. She wants to relocate to Los Angeles." Jess said. She hadn't talked to Riley about how comfortable she felt about being out at work if she took the job at LA Metro.

"And?" Allen pressed.

Jess crossed her fingers and hoped Riley wouldn't be angry. "Her current boss is a homophobe and making her life miserable."

Jess watched Allen carefully. She knew he was aware that she was a lesbian and had never seemed to have a problem with it.

Allen's breath blew out in a whoosh and he grinned. "Damn Jess, why didn't you just say so; I thought it was something serious. When can she come for an interview?"

It was Jess's turn to grin. "All her contact numbers are current. I'll tell her to expect your call."

Jess knew she better tell him the rest. The hospital was like a fish bowl and gossip traveled at the speed of light. When Riley took the job and Jess was sure Allen would offer it; Riley's relationship to her and Kim would spread like wild fire.

Jess stood and shook hands with Allen. "Thanks."

"Don't thank me. If this works out, I owe you."

Turning to go, Jess stopped just as she reached the door. She turned back to face Allen. "Oh just one other thing, she's my sister-in-law."

Allen's laughter followed Jess out of the room.

*****

Sam jogged up to the condo with a huge smile on her face. She couldn't wait to tell Riley the news. Things had progressed much quicker than she'd anticipated. It had been less than three weeks since they'd made the announcement to Kim and Jess that they wanted to move to LA. Riley had an interview on Friday with Dr. Freeman the Chief of Surgery at LA Metro and now she also had an interview on Friday for the position at the police academy. Her captain had just informed her before she left work.

"Hey Babe, I'm home." She called out as she opened the door. She glanced around the living room her eyes landing on Riley. She was sitting on the couch with a bunch of papers spread out on the coffee table and crying. Sam immediately rushed over and pulled Riley into an embrace.

"What's wrong Baby?"

Riley just cried harder. Sam held her then pulled her into her lap. Riley finally got herself under control.

"Phyllis called today. There's been a hold-up with the escrow of the condo."

Riley had put the condo on the market as soon as they'd returned from LA. It had sold after only three days on the market. The offer they'd put on the house above Kim and Jess's was contingent on the sale of Riley's condo.

Riley started to cry again. Sam could barely understand her, all she got was something about losing the house and it's all my fault.

"You have to calm down Baby. Tell me what's wrong." Sam told Riley as she softly rubbed her back.

"I said we're going to lose the house in LA and it's all my fault!"

Sam raised an eyebrow questioningly. Riley took a deep breath before continuing.

"I'd forgotten all about it 'til Phyllis called today. I don't know why I ever let him talk me into it."

Sam still had no clue as to what Riley's talking about. "Talked you into doing what Babe?" She asked in confusion.

Tears started rolling down Riley's cheeks again and Sam tightened her embrace.

"I let my uncle put his name on the deed of the condo with mine. We can't sell it without his signature. I'm so sorry." She sobbed burying her face in Sam's neck.

"Come on now, it's not that bad. We'll just get him to sign." Sam tried to reassure Riley.

Riley just cried harder. "You don't know my uncle, he'll never sign. He told me to never contact him again. If I can't sell this place we'll never be able to swing the one in LA. I was counting on the equity from the condo plus what you have saved to put the down payment on the new house."

Sam sighed. She didn't know what to say to Riley to cheer her up. Unfortunately she was right without the proceeds from the condo; there was no way they could purchase the house in LA. An idea suddenly struck Sam.

"Don't worry Babe, we'll figure something out."

Sam mind was whirling but she didn't want to get Riley's hopes up. Besides she was pretty sure Riley wouldn't approve of what she was about to do.

"Hey come on now, every thing will work out. I have some good news." Sam told Riley wiping away her tears.

"I could sure use some good news."

"Captain Daniels called me in just as I was leaving. They want me to come to the Academy on Friday and interview for the self-defense instructor position. I made the first cut."

"Oh Sam that is great news. Wait… Friday!!"

Sam grinned, "Yeah Friday"

Riley had thought she was going to have to drive to LA alone for her interview since Sam had to work. Now they could go together."

The first genuine smile since Sam came home appeared on Riley's face.

*****

"Sam I don't think this is a good idea, just showing up at the house." Riley told Sam as they pulled up in front of a large home in an exclusive area of Brentwood. "Besides I told you he's never going to sign these papers. You don't know what he's like."

Sam stopped and turned to face Riley. "Trust me."

Riley let out a big sigh and headed for her uncle's front door. What could she say to that? She trusted Sam with her life.

Sam prayed this would work and wouldn't turn ugly. It had taken her less than a week to come up with the information she needed. She'd had to call in a lot of favors but it'd been worth it. The hardest part had been getting Riley to agree to go to her uncle's and take the papers for him to sign. Sam squared her shoulders as Riley rang the bell trying to prepare herself for anything. Several moments later the door swung open to reveal an older black woman in a black dress and white apron.

"OH Riley." The woman exclaimed before stepping forward and wrapping Riley in a warm embrace. "It's wonderful to see you." The woman squeezed her again smiling happily. "I'm so glad you're alright, it's been so long." She told Riley with tears glistening in her eyes.

"I'm so sorry Vera. I should've gotten in touch with you but I didn't want to cause any problems for you with my uncle. I know how much you need this job and after he disowned me..." Riley's pain filled voice trailed off.

"I understand," Vera assured Riley, "and I appreciate it. I thought your aunt and uncle both were going to have a stroke when they returned that day from San Diego. Your aunt informed me that your name was never to be mentioned in this house again." She told Riley sadly. "Are you doing okay? Is everything alright? What are you doing here?" Vera asked her eyes flickering to Sam.

"A lot has changed in the past year." She told Vera. Riley smiled and turned to wrap her arm around Sam's waist and pull her close. "Vera this is my wife Sam." Riley introduced proudly.

Vera glanced over at Sam then frowned sternly at Riley. Riley felt Sam stiffen beside her and gave her a reassuring squeeze.

Riley blushed hotly. "Vera Washington may I present my wife, Samantha McKenna." Riley announced formally. "Samantha McKenna may I present Vera Washington."

"That's better." Vera said trying to retain her stern demeanor. She couldn't and her face broke into a huge smile. She turned and winked at Sam.

Sam laughed relieved and offered her hand to Vera. "It's a pleasure to meet you Vera." Sam greeted.

Vera surveyed Sam from head to toe causing her to blush before turning back to Riley. "You did well for yourself child. I'm proud of you for finally going your own way and being true to yourself."

Riley's jaw dropped open in shock. "You knew… You knew I was gay?" she asked incredulously.

Vera just smiled smugly.

They were interrupted by a harsh voice coming from the room across the hall. "Vera who's out there. You know I never see unannounced visitors."

Riley squared her shoulders. "Into the lion's den," she quipped.

"Vera!" Rielly Connolly yelled again.

Riley held her finger up stopping Vera from responding. "We'll take it from here." She said knowing he would never agree to see them if Vera announced who was there. Riley headed across the hall to her uncle's study with Sam hot on her heels.

Riley stepped into the dimly lit study. There was a lamp on the desk and a small table lamp across the room providing the only illumination. Rielly sat at his desk, still dressed in a suit coat and tie.

"Vera what did I tell you about…"His voice trailed off mid-sentence when he spotted Riley. "YOU!" he hissed rising from his desk and rapidly approaching Riley. "I told you never to step foot in this house again!" He bellowed.

Riley stood rooted to the floor unable to move as her uncle loomed over her. He raised his hand toward her. Sam felt her anger soar at Reilly's threatening posture. She quickly reached out and grabbed his wrist. From his shocked expression it was obvious he hadn't noticed Sam.

"How dare you!" He snarled trying to jerk away from Sam. His eyes widened in surprise when he was unable to free himself.

"Touch her and you won't live to regret it." Sam growled in a deep menacing voice.

Rielly attempted to jerk away again unsuccessfully. Sam squeezed his wrist to reinforce her point. Riley who had been silent during the altercation finally found her voice.

"Let him go Sam." She said quietly.

Sam gave his wrist one last squeeze before releasing him.

"Get out before I call the police." He demanded, stepping back behind his desk and away from Sam.

"I'll be glad to as soon as you sign these papers." Riley informed him putting the folder she'd been carrying down on his desk.

"I'm not signing anything." He snarled.

Riley ignored him and opened the folder, flipping to the appropriate page. "I'm selling my condo. I should've never allowed you to pressure me into putting your name on the deed with mine. I put up the down payment and I've made every single mortgage and tax payment."

Sam and Riley both stiffened when Rielly laughed humorlessly. "I don't think so. The condo is a good investment and rising in value. Who knows with the deviant life style you've obviously adopted…" He said sneering at Sam. "You might not even be around in a few years. Good riddance to bad rubbish as far as I'm concerned. Now get out of my house."

Sam clenched her fists to her sides, wanting nothing more than to beat the bastard standing so smugly behind his desk to a bloody pulp. Riley looked stunned by her uncle's vitriol. She couldn't believe this man was actually related to her father. Riley's shoulders slumped in defeat. She knew this would happen and had tried to warn Sam. Her head jerked up when Sam suddenly spoke.

Sam knew it was time to play her trump card. "Oh you'll sign the papers alright." She informed him confidently.

Reilly laughed arrogantly. "And what are you going to do about it if I don't little girl." He scoffed at Sam obviously enjoying himself.

Riley started to speak but Sam squeezed her hand stopping her. She met Rielly Connolly's angry blue eyes and grinned. A second of uncertainty flashed across his face before his sneer reappeared.

"I'm sure the LA Times would just love to know about a prominent LA Cardiac Surgeon's speeding tickets."

Rielly let out a divisive snort and visibly relaxed.

"And let's not forget the two DUI's you bribed your way out of."

Rielly started to squirm and looked very nervous. Riley looked over at Sam in shock. She knew nothing about this.

Then Sam went in for the kill. "Oh… and of course there's that little matter of the solicitation charge."

Reilly's shoulders slumped in defeat. He didn't know who this young woman was or where she'd gotten her information but there was no way he could ignore it. As much as it galled him to give into her demands whatever they were he knew he didn't have a choice. If word ever got out about those charges his career would be over.

"So that's what this is about. You're going to blackmail me?" He accused.

"No. You sign the quitclaim to Riley's condo so Riley can sell it. We go away. It's that simple."

He turned to Riley. "So if I sign, you'll leave me alone and never bother me again?"

Riley nodded still too stunned to speak. Rielly signed the papers and shoved the folder back at Riley. "Now get out."

He locked eyes with Sam. "You've made a powerful enemy today." He threatened.

Sam met his stare evenly. "So have you." She replied before slipping an arm around Riley's waist and escorting her out of the room.

Vera was nowhere to be seen so they let themselves out.

*****

Riley was quiet on the drive back to Kim and Jess's. Finally she turned in her seat to face Sam. "Those things about my uncle, they were true?" Sam nodded. "How did you find out about them?"

Sam gulped nervously. Riley's voice was very flat and matter of fact. Sam hoped she wasn't angry about what she'd done.

"I know quite a few people in law enforcement. I called in some favors and they did some digging for me. I took a chance that someone as arrogant as your uncle would think they were above the law and I was right."

"Did he really get picked up on a solicitation charge? I just can't picture him picking up some woman on the street." Riley said shaking her head in disbelief.

Sam chuckled. "No he got caught in a sting operation. There was a high profile escort service that was a front for very high priced prostitutes. They specialized in wealthy men with particular tastes." Sam decided not to tell Riley everything she'd found out about her uncle. She shuddered remembering the type of tastes these prostitutes catered to. "He just lucked out and got caught with some high profile politicians who were able to use their influence to cover it up."

"But not well enough." Riley commented.

"Obviously not." Sam grinned.

Sam glanced over at Riley. She had a slight smile on her face. "Thank you."

"For what?" Sam asked.

"For coming to my rescue from my uncle… again. Though I have to admit for a minute there I thought you were going to rip him limb from limb."

"I wanted to." Sam admitted. Her expression tightening as she remembered the horrible things Riley's uncle had said to Riley.

"My hero." Riley soothed picking up Sam's hand and gently kissing the palm. She wrapped both her hands around Sam's and held their entwined hands in her lap all the way to Kim and Jess's.

*****

"You're going to wear a hole in my floor." Jess teased Sam.

They were in her office at LA Metro. Jess was working and Sam was waiting for Riley; she was upstairs in her interview with Dr. Freeman. Jess had been relieved that Riley wasn't angry about her telling Allen the reason she was unhappy at Mercy. Riley had laughed and assured Jess she had no problem with being out at work.

"Isn't she back yet?" Kim asked poking her head in the door.

"Don't you start," Jess warned. "Sam is already driving me nuts pacing the floor. She'll get done when she gets done. Don't worry he'll offer her the job."

Sam stuck her tongue out at her sister. Jess and Kim both chuckled.

Kim turned to Sam excitedly. "I almost forgot. What happened at your interview?" she asked looking at Sam expectantly.

Sam grin was answer enough. "I got it!" she confirmed.

Kim stepped into the room and hugged Sam. "Congratulations."

A knock on the door interrupted. "Come in." Jess called figuring it was Riley.

Penny the desk clerk opened the door. "Sorry to interrupt Dr. McKenna but there's a trauma five minutes out. Dispatch said an MVA and to expect two criticals and four minors."

"Thanks Penny I'll be right out." Jess told her.

Penny made no effort to leave. She was too busy staring at Sam. Sam never came to Jess's place of work so none of the staff knew who she was. Penny was fascinated. This woman could be Dr. McKenna's twin. I wonder if she's into women too?

Sam squirmed uncomfortably in the other woman's gaze. Jess finally noticing Penny's interest introduced the two women.

"Penny, this is my sister Sam. Sam this is our desk clerk Penny."

"Hi Sam, it's really nice to meet you." Penny said smiling flirtatiously at Sam and offering her hand.

"Nice to meet you too." Sam replied politely trying to remove her hand from the other woman's grasp. Penny continued to stare at Sam and unconsciously licked her lips.

Jess decided to have pity on her sister. She put her hands on Penny's shoulders and turned her toward the door. "Let everyone know what we have coming and have Dr. Armstrong prepare trauma two."

"Okay." Penny mumbled then turned back to Sam. "It was a pleasure meeting you. I hope to see you around again soon."

Sam smiled slightly but gave no other response.

As soon as Penny was out of the room Kim and Jess started laughing.

"Knock it off." Sam growled. "What's with her anyway?" she asked Kim.

"Well she had the hots for Jess but finally got a clue. Guess she figures if she can't have Jess her sister is close enough. I think you have an admirer." Kim teased.

"That's not funny… I'm taken!"

"Yes you are," said a stern voice from the doorway. "Who thinks any differently?"

"Riley! You're back… how did it go?"

"Answer my question first. Who thinks you're not taken and where are they?"

Kim and Jess decided now would be a really good time to go back to work. "Hey we gotta go, work calls." Jess said and they both quickly exited the room leaving Sam to her fate.

Sam stepped over and pulled Riley into her arms. "Kim was just yanking my chain. Jess introduced me to the desk clerk Penny. Seems she used to chase after Jess before Kim came along. Jess introduced us and Kim was just kidding around saying she was after me now. It was just a joke… you know I'm taken."

Riley put her hand behind Sam's neck and pulled her into a passionate kiss. The kiss went on for some time and when they finally broke apart both were breathing heavily.

"And don't you forget it." Riley breathed against Sam's lips as she kissed her again. Sam's knees were shaky by the time Riley released her. Sam stepped back and leaned against Jess's desk.

"Wow!" Sam muttered.

Riley smiled then grinned when she remembered what had happened upstairs. She met Sam's eyes.

"I got the job!" she exclaimed excitedly.

Sam face broke out in a huge grin. "I did too." She happily told Riley.

Riley threw herself back into Sam's arms. "I can't believe it. We did it… we really are moving to LA."

Sam leaned down taking Riley's lips in a congratulatory kiss. Things heated up quickly and before either one of them realized what was happening their hands began to roam. Riley's hands came up and claimed Sam's breasts. Sam moaned into Riley's mouth and quickly switched positions pinning Riley up against Jess's desk and pressing her leg between Riley's thighs. It was Riley's turn to moan. Sam reached down and pulled Riley's silk shirt out of her pants and slipped her hand underneath to cup her breast. Just as Sam was working open the buttons to Riley's pants the door unexpectedly opened.

"Hey guys is everything…" Kim's voice trailed off and she blushed when she realized what she'd interrupted. "Sorry." She muttered before quickly closing the door.

Sam and Riley both started laughing the moment broken. They both reordered their clothes and headed out to the front desk to find Kim and Jess before heading home.

*****

Penny smiled brightly when she saw the object of her desire coming down the hall. It quickly turned to a frown when she spotted the small redhead by her side.

"Hi Sam." Penny smiled at Sam totally ignoring Riley. "Are you looking for your sister?"

"Yeah or the other Dr. McKenna."

"I think they're both with patients. You can wait in the lounge or there's an extra seat back here." She said indicating a stool behind the counter next to the one she was sitting on. Sam noticed there was only one stool.

"No that's okay, we'll just wait in my sister's office." Sam turned to head back down the hall with Riley when Kim came out of one of the exam rooms.

"Hey Riley, how did it go?" Kim asked when she joined them at the front desk. Penny was trying to look busy. She wanted to know who this woman was with Sam.

Riley smiled. "It went great… I got the job."

"Congratulations." Kim said and reached out to give Riley a quick hug.

Now Penny was really curious who this woman was. "Dr. McKenna." She said interrupting Kim. You have a consult in exam six. Dr. Armstrong said the woman claimed to be hearing voices."

Kim turned apologetically to Sam and Riley. "Sorry duty calls. Are you sure you guys can't stay the weekend?"

"I wish we could but we just have too much to do to get everything ready for the move. Things are moving faster than we planned." Sam explained.

"I understand. I'll let Jess know you had to head back to San Diego. Congratulations again Riley and you too Sam." Kim saw how interested Penny was in the conversation. She felt bad for getting Sam in trouble earlier so decided to help her out.

"Oh Penny, since you'll be seeing her around quite a bit let me introduce you to Dr. Connolly. She's going to be our newest trauma surgeon. And of course you've already met her wife, Sam."

Penny's shock and disappointment was evident. She stood gaping at Sam and Riley.

"Nice to meet you." Riley offered.

Penny finally managed to pull herself together and take Riley's hand in a limp handshake.

"I have some stuff I need to do, excuse me." She turned and hurried away from the desk.

Sam couldn't help it she started to chuckle and Kim joined in. Riley just looked confused then it hit her.

"Was she the one who thought you weren't taken?" Riley asked glaring in the direction Penny had gone.

Sam just nodded still chuckling.

A loud commotion was heard from down the hall. Kim looked up to see a nude older woman run out the doors of the exam room.

"That's my cue. Love you guys. Let us know if you need anything." Kim turned and ran down the hall.

Sam and Riley watched for several seconds. "Never a dull moment huh?" Sam asked.

They left and headed for what they both now looked on as their temporary home in San Diego.

*****

Sam headed down the hall toward Riley's office. She was on her lunch break and decided to stop by and see how she was doing. Riley had informed her that she'd be handing in her resignation letter today and Sam was worried about Dr. Stevens giving Riley a hard time. He had become more and more hostile to her with each passing week. Riley's work schedule in recent months had become so hectic that Sam hadn't been to see her at work in some time.

Sam reached out to knock on Riley door only to have it jerked open in her face and a body slam into her. She reached out and grasped the person's arms trying to steady them.

Dr. Stevens glared at Sam then realized who had hold of him. He'd never seen her in uniform before.

"You!" he hissed jerking away from Sam. "This is your doing." He accused. He looked her up and down. "People like you are a disgrace to that uniform." He snarled before pushing past her and stomping down the hallway.

Sam watched him go then stepped into Riley's office and shut the door. Riley was sitting at her desk looking shell-shocked.

"Riley…" no answer, "Baby, you okay?" Sam tried again.

Riley seemed to shake herself out of a stupor blinking rapidly several times. "Sam, what are you doing here?" she asked in confusion.

"I was worried so I thought I'd stop by on my lunch break and make sure you were okay." Sam admitted slightly sheepishly.

Riley got up from her chair and walked into Sam's arms. She was immediately enclosed in a warm embrace.

"Always my hero." She said softly before drawing Sam down into a soft kiss.

"So what was that all about with Stevens?"

"I turned in my letter of resignation this morning to his secretary, he wasn't in yet. He stormed in here a couple of minutes ago demanding to know what I thought I was trying to pull. He thought it was some ploy to get a better schedule and hours. When I told him no I really was leaving he threw a fit. Told me not to bother coming to work tomorrow I was through here and to have my office cleaned out by tonight. He was furious that the first he'd heard of my leaving was when his secretary gave him my letter." Riley told Sam still not quite believing it herself.

"But I thought Dr. Freeman would've contacted him since he's your current boss?"

"That was my assumption as well, but obviously he didn't." Riley said shrugging her shoulders.

I thought you had to give 90 days notice?" Sam questioned confused.

"So did I but I guess they're so anxious to get rid of me Stevens said they were waiving the 90 days notice. Today's my last day at Mercy. I guess I'm out of a job."

Sam could tell Riley was in shock over the confrontation with Stevens. "Don't worry about it; I'm sure Dr. Freeman will be happy to have you start sooner than planned. He did say they wanted you as soon as possible but understood you had to give notice." Sam tried to reassure Riley.

"I know I just wasn't expecting it. He seemed truly shocked when he realized I was serious about leaving. I thought he'd be happy I was leaving. He just started to scream about all he'd done for me and how I was betraying him. He informed me the only reason he accepted me into the trauma surgery program and then as staff was because of my uncle. Then he told me to get out of his department. Said he expected my office cleaned out by tonight. I told him I would fulfill my obligation of 90 days notice. He insisted that he was waiving it and repeated he expected me out of my office and his hospital by tonight then stormed out."

"I'm sorry Baby." Sam said hugging Riley tightly.

"I guess I should be happy. It means we can move to LA that much sooner. The condo's already sold and I'm sure the new owners will be happy not to have to rent back to us. Oh but what about you?" Riley asked wondering how this would affect Sam. "You never said how much notice you had to give at work."

"I can leave whenever I want to since I'm transferring to another department not resigning. I haven't told them yet what my departure date is. I was staying because you had to. It's no problem to transfer sooner."

Sam's radio squawked interrupting; she listened for several moments.

"I'm sorry Babe, I have to go. I'll come back after work and bring some boxes to help you pack everything up. This is a good thing! Kim and Jess will be so excited that we'll be moved to LA in time for the holidays. Please don't let that homophobic ass get you down."

Sam leaned to kiss Riley's lips before heading out the door.

Riley looked around her office then with a big sigh started gathering up her things.


Continued in Part Two

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