A/N: I just started watching CSI: NY at the start of the second season and I love the chemistry between Danny and Lindsey. I've written about 7 CSI stories, but this is my first CSI: NY story. I think I've put more thought into this one story than all my others combined so I hope you like it.


Chapter 1: Unexpected Heartbreak

Lindsey opened the double doors to NYPD. At 7 am it was already loud with the hustle and bustle of detectives, investigators, victims and suspects. She had hoped to go to her desk and get some of the paperwork she had been putting off done, but Kelly, the receptionist, stopped her.

"Morning, Ms. Monroe." Kelly greeted enthusiastically.

"What do you have for me this morning, Kelly?" Lindsey replied with equal spark. She leaned her elbows on the counter. Kelly reached under her desk and pulled out a brown cardboard box with an army emblem on it.

"This was delivered for you this morning." Lindsey nodded her thanks and proceeded to the office she shared with Danny, box in tow. She knew who it was from but normally her brother's letters were sent straight to her apartment. Automatically she felt like something was wrong.

Grabbing the first sharp object she saw, Lindsey cut through the tape that was concealing whatever was in the box. She pulled out a white envelope addresses to her. It wasn't in her brother's handwriting but in his best friend Jason's. Once again she opened the tightly sealed envelope taking the letter out. She read it in a low whisper to herself.

Dear Lindsey-

Hey Linds, it's me Jason. There's no easy way to say this so I just need to get it out there. Matt's gone. He was killed on the front line two days ago. Your parents got the formal letter while I took it upon myself to tell you. I really can't believe he's gone and I really wish I could have taken his place. Right now I can see the tears forming behind your eyes but you're trying to stay strong. You're going to be alright.

All the contents in this box belonged to Matt and he told me that if anything ever happened to him they were to be sent to you. You'll know what to do with them. Always remember that Matt loved you with all his heart. He was so proud of you when he learned you were moving to the big city and taking that important job. He bragged about it for days. Matt also went on and on about that Danny guy where you work. Without meeting him I think he like him.

Stay strong, but at the same time don't be afraid to cry. Just remember to keep him and all the memories we all had together in your heart. He'll be watching over you forever. I'm always here for you. You and Matt were like the siblings I never had. We'll get through this together. Keep in touch kid! I'll keep you in my prayers.

Love Always-

Jason

Tears started to fall from Lindsey's eyes. She couldn't believe that this could happen. Jason, her brother's best friend, had informed her that Matt was gone. Lindsey picked up the box and took it with her when she headed to Mac's office. There was no way she could work today. Her body began to shake and she couldn't trust her judgment because her mind was clouded.

Mac looked up from his desk when he heard the faintest knocking as his door. In his doorway stood a grief stricken, on-the-edge Lindsey, who looked like she was about to fall apart at any minute. When he stood up, he walked over to her and put his hands on her shoulders.

"Lindsey, what's wrong?" Mac questioned gently, not trying to push her.

Lindsey, who was still grasping the box tightly, shook her head and answered, "I don't think I can talk about it right now and I need the day off." Her voice was on the edge and ready to crack.

"Sure, Linds." Mac agreed quickly. He didn't want to push it. If he had to pinpoint what was wrong he would have to say it had something to do with death. Lindsey mirrored him when he had just lost Claire and if he was right he wasn't going to push it.

Lindsey nodded and turned around to leave, but Mac stopped her. "Just remember one thing. When you're ready, we're all here if you want to talk." She had only been there about a year but she already felt like family to the team. They really cared about her.

"Thanks Mac." Lindsey gave him as weak smile and headed towards the exit.

On her way out, she passes a clearly awake Danny Messer. Like she didn't even see him she walked right past him without a second glance or wise comment. Her tears did not go unnoticed by Danny. He had never seen her cry before and it broke his hear.

Danny settled down at his much unorganized desk in the office they shared. He looked across to the empty desk. Montana's desk looked like it hadn't been touched. Out of the corner of his eyes he noticed an out of place envelope. Not trying to be nosy he reached over and picked it up. To Danny's surprise it had an Army logo on it. He only had to read two sentences to realize why Lindsey had bolted so quickly. Danny slipped the letter back into the envelope and rushed to Mac's office. If he knew Lindsey like her thought he did, she didn't leave work without getting permission, but he also knew that she probably didn't give their boss a full explanation.


A/N: I know this chapter was short, but it's just the beginning. The next two are much longer. Review please…I like to hear your comments, opinions and constructive criticism!